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Easy Popcorn Shrimp

Featured in Easy Party Snacks.

These coconut shrimp are restaurant worthy! Takes 30 minutes start to finish. The panko coconut coating gets super crispy while shrimp stays juicy inside. That three bowl system is key for perfect crust. Made them for dinner party and they disappeared fast. Perfect appetizer that feels fancy.
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Mina cooking in her kitchen
Updated on Thu, 09 Jan 2025 17:28:04 GMT
A bowl filled with crispy fried shrimp, sliced limes, and a small dish of creamy dipping sauce. Pin it
A bowl filled with crispy fried shrimp, sliced limes, and a small dish of creamy dipping sauce. | lastminrecipes.com

Crispy Easy Popcorn Shrimp Recipe

These easy popcorn shrimp are everything you want in a snack crispy crunchy and totally addictive. I love how the gluten-free breading with panko and sweet coconut creates the perfect golden coating. They fry up so quickly making them perfect for everything from party appetizers to fun family dinners.

Why This Popcorn Shrimp Works Every Time

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is while delivering restaurant-quality results. The shrimp come out perfectly crispy every time and that zesty dipping sauce takes everything to the next level. Plus you can freeze them before frying for quick meals later.

What You'll Need

  • Shrimp: Large ones work best keep those tails on.
  • Gluten-Free Breading: Our perfect crispy coating mix.
  • Eggs & Chili Garlic Sauce: Helps everything stick together.
  • Dipping Sauce: Creamy spicy and totally addictive.

Let's Make Some Shrimp

Start With Sauce
Mix up your dipping sauce let those flavors blend.
Set Up Your Station
Get your three breading bowls ready for action.
Coat Your Shrimp
Take them through each step for perfect coverage.
Time to Fry
Get them golden brown and crispy.
Ready to Serve
Add some fresh lime and dig in.

Make Them Your Own

Watch your oil temperature for that perfect crunch. Like it mild? Switch the cayenne for paprika. Want different sauces? Try tartar cocktail or aioli. Save time by freezing a batch before frying.

Perfect Partners

These shrimp taste amazing with crispy zucchini fries creamy coleslaw or a fresh salad. Want to get creative? Turn them into tacos or top a rice bowl for a fun dinner twist.

A bowl of crispy, golden-breaded shrimp is served with dipping sauces and a lime half in the background. Pin it
A bowl of crispy, golden-breaded shrimp is served with dipping sauces and a lime half in the background. | lastminrecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why use three separate bowls?

The three-step breading process ensures complete coating and maximum crispiness.

→ What's the best oil temperature?

Keep oil between 325-350°F for crispy exterior and properly cooked interior.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs.

→ Why leave tails on?

Tails provide a handle for dipping and add presentation value.

→ Can I bake these instead?

While possible, frying provides the best crispy texture.

Popcorn Shrimp

Crunchy breaded shrimp with coconut and panko coating, served with a spicy chili-mayo dipping sauce.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
5 Minutes
Total Time
20 Minutes
By: Mina


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion

Yield: 4 Servings (24 shrimp)

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 1 pound large shrimp, peeled with tails.
02 Cooking oil for frying.
03 1/4 cup flour.
04 1/2 teaspoon salt.
05 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
06 2 large eggs.
07 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce.
08 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs.
09 1 1/2 cups coconut flakes.
10 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
11 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.
12 1/8 teaspoon cayenne (optional).
13 1/4 cup mayonnaise.
14 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce.
15 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional).

Instructions

Step 01

Mix the sauce ingredients together and refrigerate.

Step 02

Set up three breading bowls for coating the shrimp.

Step 03

Roll shrimp through each of the setup bowls to coat them thoroughly.

Step 04

Heat oil in a frying pan to 325-350°F.

Step 05

Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 06

Drain fried shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 07

Serve the shrimp immediately with sauce for the best crunch.

Notes

  1. Keep oil at the proper temperature.
  2. Can use gluten-free ingredients as a substitute.
  3. Serve immediately for the best crunch.
  4. The three-bowl method ensures the coating is thorough.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large frying pan.
  • Three shallow bowls.
  • Tongs.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Shellfish (shrimp).
  • Eggs.
  • Wheat (if not using gluten-free ingredients).
  • Tree nuts (coconut).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 486
  • Total Fat: 25 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 40 g
  • Protein: 28.6 g