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Coconut Shrimp Tacos

Coconut Shrimp Tacos are a delicious twist on traditional tacos featuring crispy coconut shrimp, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Mexican, Seafood
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Breading Mix

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp cumin
  • ¼ tsp allspice
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Shrimp and Coating

  • 1 each egg, beaten
  • 1 Tbsp water
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (30g)
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (57g)
  • 12 oz. X-large shrimp, thawed (19-22 per bag)

For Assembly

  • 8 each flour tortillas, taco size
  • 1 cup vegetable oil (8 oz)
  • ¼ small red cabbage, shredded (150g)
  • ½ cup pineapple salsa (4 oz)

Optional Toppings

  • 1 each lime
  • 1 each avocado
  • 1 each cilantro
  • 1 each jalapeño

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In the first bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper.
  • In the second bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 Tbsp of water.
  • In the third bowl, add the panko and shredded coconut. Mix to combine.
  • The last bowl will hold your prepared breaded coconut shrimp.

Breading the Shrimp

  • Toss the thawed shrimp in the flour, coating all sides. Avoid overcrowding the bowl.
  • Dip the shrimp in the egg mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
  • Press the shrimp into the panko/coconut blend, flipping to cover all sides thoroughly.
  • Set aside until all shrimp are breaded.

Cooking

  • Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat and toast the tortillas on each side until browned.
  • Stack the toasted tortillas on a plate and cover with a towel to keep warm.
  • In the same skillet, heat the vegetable oil to about 350 to 365°F.
  • Carefully place the coconut shrimp in the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until golden brown.
  • Flip the shrimp gently and cook for another 2 minutes, avoiding overcrowding.
  • Remove the cooked shrimp and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Assembly

  • Place the shredded cabbage down the middle of each tortilla.
  • Top with coconut shrimp, pineapple salsa, and any additional desired toppings.

Notes

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying for crispy shrimp. Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. You can pre-prepare the ingredients, but it's best to assemble just before serving.
Keyword Coconut Shrimp Tacos, Crispy Shrimp, Easy Tacos, Seafood Tacos, Tropical Tacos