How to Get Perfectly Crispy Coconut Shrimp Every Time

Published On: February 5, 2025

How to Get Perfectly Crispy Coconut Shrimp Every Time

Craving something crunchy, flavorful, and keto-friendly? This Crispy Keto Coconut Shrimp recipe is the perfect low-carb appetizer or main dish. Coated with a delicious mix of coconut flour, shredded coconut, and crushed pork rinds, these shrimp are packed with flavor and have the perfect crunch—without all the carbs. You can fry them in coconut oil for a golden finish or air-fry them for a healthier twist.

Ingredients

1 pound shrimp, peeled, cleaned, and tails removed
⅓ cup coconut flour
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt (plus extra for seasoning)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
⅓ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
½ cup crushed pork rinds
½ teaspoon salt (for the coating mixture)
Coconut oil or avocado oil (for frying or spraying in the air fryer)

Optional for Serving:

Sugar-Free Keto Cocktail Sauce

Instructions

1. Prep the Shrimp:

Rinse, peel, and clean the shrimp. Pat them dry with a paper towel and keep them in the fridge while you prepare the coating.

2. Prepare the Coatings:

In a shallow bowl, mix the coconut flour, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
In another bowl, combine the shredded coconut, crushed pork rinds, and an additional ½ teaspoon of salt.

3. Coat the Shrimp:

Working in small batches (4–5 shrimp at a time), dredge the shrimp in the coconut flour mixture, coating both sides.
Dip the flour-coated shrimp into the beaten eggs.
Finally, coat the shrimp in the shredded coconut and pork rind mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.
Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet while you finish the rest.

Frying Instructions (Stovetop Method):

Heat enough coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to create a depth of about 2 inches. The oil temperature should reach 350°F (175°C).
- Tip: Test the oil by dropping a small piece of shredded coconut into it. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.
Carefully add half the shrimp to the hot oil in a single layer.
Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Remove the shrimp with tongs and place them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to absorb excess oil.
Repeat with the remaining shrimp.

Air Fryer Instructions:

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with avocado or coconut oil spray.
Place half the shrimp in the basket in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).
Cook for 5 minutes, then flip the shrimp and cook for another 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Repeat with the remaining shrimp.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve hot with sugar-free keto cocktail sauce, lemon wedges, or a creamy dipping sauce of your choice.
Pair with a fresh salad or sautéed veggies for a complete low-carb meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per 3.5 oz Serving):

Calories: 225 kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Net Carbs: 3g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
Cholesterol: 302mg
Sodium: 1255mg
Potassium: 131mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 194 IU
Vitamin C: 4 mg
Calcium: 141 mg
Iron: 3 mg

Note: Nutrition information does not include oil absorbed during frying.

Helpful Tips:

Crunchier Coating: For an extra crunchy finish, press the coconut and pork rind coating firmly onto the shrimp.
Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the oil at 350°F to prevent the shrimp from becoming greasy or burning.
Batch Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.

This Crispy Keto Coconut Shrimp is the perfect combination of crunchy, juicy, and flavorful. Whether you fry them in coconut oil for that classic golden finish or opt for the air fryer for a lighter version, these shrimp are sure to satisfy your cravings. Serve them as an appetizer, party snack, or a delicious low-carb dinner with your favorite keto-friendly sauces!

FAQ

Can I bake keto coconut shrimp instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, frying or air frying gives a crispier texture.

Are these coconut shrimp keto-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe uses coconut flour, unsweetened shredded coconut, and crushed pork rinds, making it low in carbs with only 3g net carbs per serving.