Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Spicy Pina Colada Dipping Sauce

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, whisk together pina colada mix, water and cornstarch until the cornstarch is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a low-boil over medium-low heat. Simmer while stirring 4-5 minutes or until mixture thickens.

Step 2

Add the crushed pineapple, coconut, crushed red pepper, salt, lime zest and lime juice and whisk well.

Step 3

Bring the mixture back to a low boil and simmer until mixture is desired consistency, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4

Strain the sauce through a mesh strainer over a medium bowl.

Step 5

Serve with Crispy Coconut Shrimp.

Step 6

Heat oil in a deep-sided, heavy-bottom Dutch oven or sauté pan over medium heat until it registers 340°F on an instant-read or candy thermometer.

Step 7

While the oil heats, lay the shrimp on double thick paper towels and pat the tops dry with another paper towel. Lightly season the shrimp with kosher salt.

Step 8

In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, white pepper, cayenne pepper, and table salt.

Step 9

In a second shallow bowl, whisk together 2 whole eggs, 2 egg whites and water. (Reserve the extra 2 egg yolks for later use, if desired.)

Step 10

In a third shallow bowl, whisk together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.

Step 11

When the oil is ready, pick up the shrimp by the tail, dip it in the flour mixture and shake off the excess.

Step 12

Dredge the shrimp in the beaten eggs allowing the excess to drip off.

Step 13

Press the shrimp in the coconut/panko mixture so the mixture adheres.

Step 14

Dip the shrimp in the beaten eggs a second time and allow the excess to drip off.

Step 15

Once again, press the shrimp in the coconut/panko mixture and place it carefully in the hot oil.

Step 16

(To recap, the dipping /dredging process is as follows:

Step 17

Flour mixture/eggs/coconut-panko mixture/eggs/coconut-panko mixture.)

Step 18

Fry the shrimp about 1 minute, or until golden brown, on the bottom side then flip it over and fry the other side about 1 minute. It should take about 2-2½ minutes for she shrimp to be cooked through and golden brown.

Step 19

Set the cooked shrimp on a paper towel-lined plate and repeat until all shrimp are cooked.

Step 20

Immediately serve with Spicy Pina Colada Sauce.

Step 21

Enjoy!