There is something utterly irresistible about crispy coconut shrimp with mango salsa. Imagine the sound of crunching as you bite into golden-brown shrimp, coated with a sweet coconut crust that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses with hints of tropical paradise and summer vibes.

This dish isn’t just a meal it’s a celebration of flavor and texture that transports you to sandy beaches with each bite. Perfect for summer barbecues, casual get-togethers, or even just an indulgent weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have everyone clamoring for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This crispy coconut shrimp will impress your guests while being easy to prepare
- Bursting with tropical flavors, the dish looks stunning on any plate
- The fresh mango salsa adds a refreshing twist, making it perfect for warm evenings
- Versatile enough for appetizers or main courses, it suits any occasion
I remember the first time I served crispy coconut shrimp at a family gathering. My cousin took one bite and exclaimed it was like a mini-vacation on his plate
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best texture they hold up beautifully during frying.
- Coconut Flakes: Opt for unsweetened flakes to balance out the sweetness of the mango salsa.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These add extra crunch don’t skip them for that delightful texture contrast.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs help the coating stick nicely to the shrimp for that perfect crunch.
- Flour: All-purpose flour creates a base layer it helps absorb moisture and ensures crispiness.
- Mango: Choose ripe, juicy mangoes for maximum sweetness in your salsa they should be slightly soft to touch.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the salsa bottled juice just won’t cut it here
- Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds color and a burst of freshness to your mango salsa.
- Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning duo that elevates flavors and brings everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Shrimp: Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step prevents sogginess during frying while ensuring they are perfectly seasoned.
Create Your Coating Station: Set up three bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs, and a third filled with panko breadcrumbs mixed with coconut flakes. This assembly line makes coating easy and efficient.
Coat Your Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs before coating them generously in the panko-coconut mixture. Press gently to ensure every inch is covered this is where the crunch magic happens
Heat Up That Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking (about 350°F or 175°C). You can test it by dropping in a small breadcrumb if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go
Fry Until Golden Perfection: Carefully add coated shrimp to hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point
Make That Mango Salsa: While your shrimp are frying, dice ripe mangoes into small cubes and toss them into a bowl. Add chopped cilantro, freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until well combined a vibrant sidekick to your crispy stars
Enjoy your crispy coconut shrimp drizzled generously with that refreshing mango salsa
Now you have all the tips you need to make this dish shine like a tropical sunset on your table
You Must Know
- Mastering the art of crispy coconut shrimp is easier than you think
- The key lies in using fresh ingredients and double-breading for extra crunch
- Pair it with a zesty mango salsa to elevate flavors and impress your guests at any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly crispy coconut shrimp, start by prepping the shrimp, then set up your breading station. Coat each shrimp, fry until golden, and finish with the mango salsa for a delicious balance.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your coconut shrimp by adding spices to the breading or swapping out the mango for pineapple. A squeeze of lime can also brighten the dish
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover coconut shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For crispy results, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying this prevents sogginess
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, and don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain temperature consistency
- Enjoy experimenting with different dipping sauces for variety
I remember the first time I made crispy coconut shrimp my friends devoured them Their laughter echoed as they fought over the last piece. It was a fun evening filled with good food and even better company.
FAQ
Can I bake crispy coconut shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, baking is possible Preheat to 400°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
What can I serve with crispy coconut shrimp?
Serve with mango salsa, sweet chili sauce, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy?
Ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying this keeps them crispy outside and tender inside.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Salsa
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy coconut shrimp with mango salsa is a delightful dish that brings the taste of tropical paradise to your table. Each bite features succulent shrimp coated in a golden, crunchy coconut crust, paired perfectly with a refreshing, zesty mango salsa. This dish is ideal for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, impressing guests and satisfying cravings alike. Get ready for a burst of flavors that will transport you straight to a sandy beach!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Set up a breading station: one bowl for flour mixed with salt and pepper, another for beaten eggs, and a third for panko mixed with coconut flakes.
- Coat each shrimp in flour, dip in eggs, then coat generously in the panko-coconut mixture.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F). Test by dropping in a small breadcrumb; if it sizzles immediately, it's ready.
- Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- While frying, combine diced mango, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the salsa.
- Serve crispy coconut shrimp drizzled with mango salsa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 shrimp (120g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg