Name: Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for brushing; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Zest of 1 lime; 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional); 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

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Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce offers a healthier twist on the classic deep-fried dish, featuring crispy shrimp coated in coconut and sesame seeds. Paired with a tangy and sweet Thai pineapple chili sauce, this recipe is perfect for appetizers, main courses, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper, to taste
1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for brushing

For the Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce:

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
Zest of 1 lime
1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Directions

To Prepare the Shrimp:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Combine shredded coconut, Panko breadcrumbs, and sesame seeds in a shallow dish.
In another dish, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. In a third dish, beat the eggs.
Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, dip it in the beaten egg, and then coat it with the coconut mixture. Press lightly to adhere.
Arrange the coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the shrimp.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

To Make the Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce:

Blend pineapple chunks, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and lime zest in a food processor until smooth.
Transfer to a saucepan and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. Stir in fish sauce and chili flakes, if using, and adjust seasonings to taste.
Serve the sauce warm or at room temperature alongside the shrimp.

Nutrients (Per Serving):

Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 450 mg

Enjoy the tropical flavors of this crispy, oven-baked delight with a healthy twist and a burst of flavor from the Thai-inspired dipping sauce!

The Appeal of Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce

Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce is a dish that masterfully combines indulgence with health-conscious eating. It offers the satisfying crunch of traditional fried shrimp while cutting back on the excess oil typically associated with frying. Coupled with a zesty and tropical dipping sauce, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether it’s a dinner party, family gathering, or even a quick weeknight meal.

The Art of Crafting a Healthier Fried Shrimp

Traditionally, coconut shrimp is deep-fried, resulting in a delicious but calorie-heavy dish. This recipe, however, employs an oven-baking method that achieves the same golden crispiness with a fraction of the oil. By baking instead of frying, you preserve the shrimp’s natural flavors while creating a crunchy coating that’s just as satisfying.

The mixture of unsweetened shredded coconut, Panko breadcrumbs, and sesame seeds creates a texture-rich crust that beautifully complements the tender, juicy shrimp. These ingredients bring depth to each bite, offering a balance of nuttiness from the sesame seeds and a subtle sweetness from the coconut. The inclusion of olive oil, brushed lightly over the shrimp, ensures the coating crisps up perfectly in the oven.

Versatility of the Dish

Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp is an incredibly versatile dish that suits a variety of occasions. It works equally well as a sophisticated appetizer, a light main course, or even as part of a party platter. Pair it with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal, or serve it alongside other finger foods for a festive appetizer spread.

What makes this dish even more appealing is how easy it is to customize. You can adjust the seasoning in the breading mix to suit your taste preferences, experimenting with spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for added heat. The shrimp can also be served with alternative sauces like a tangy mango salsa or a classic cocktail sauce if you’re looking for variety.

The Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce: A Perfect Companion

The Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce is a star in its own right, adding a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy dimension that enhances the shrimp’s flavors. The combination of fresh pineapple, lime juice, and sweet chili sauce creates a tropical medley that pairs beautifully with the crispy shrimp. The fish sauce and chili flakes add layers of umami and heat, but these can be adjusted or omitted to suit dietary preferences or spice tolerance.

This sauce is not only a perfect dip for the shrimp but also versatile enough to use in other dishes. It can be drizzled over grilled chicken, used as a glaze for roasted vegetables, or even as a salad dressing with an Asian-inspired twist.

Health Benefits

This recipe doesn’t just taste great; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Shrimp is a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. The unsweetened coconut and sesame seeds provide healthy fats and dietary fiber, while the pineapple adds a dose of vitamin C and natural sweetness. By opting for baking over frying, you significantly reduce the amount of unhealthy fats, making this dish a guilt-free indulgence.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before coating, make sure the shrimp are thoroughly dried. This helps the breading stick better and results in a crispier texture.
Flip for Even Cooking: Flipping the shrimp halfway through baking ensures an evenly golden crust on both sides.
Use Fresh Pineapple: While canned pineapple can work in a pinch, fresh pineapple provides a brighter, more authentic flavor for the dipping sauce.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the shrimp hot out of the oven. The crispy coating is most enjoyable when fresh.

A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for All Seasons

Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce transcends seasons and dining settings. Its tropical notes evoke summer beach vibes, while the comforting crunch of the shrimp and the warmth of the chili sauce make it equally suitable for winter gatherings. The balance of flavors and textures ensures it appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a reliable go-to recipe for hosts and home cooks alike.

Conclusion: A Fusion of Flavor and Health

Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce is a testament to the idea that healthy eating doesn’t have to sacrifice flavor. By reimagining a beloved classic with a lighter twist, this dish offers a harmonious fusion of taste and texture that satisfies cravings without guilt. The crispy shrimp and tangy dipping sauce make a delightful pairing that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Whether you’re serving it as a dinner party appetizer, a main course, or a casual family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its vibrant flavors, healthier preparation method, and adaptability, Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce is a dish worth adding to your culinary repertoire. It not only brings people together at the table but also proves that indulgence and health can coexist beautifully.