Name: Crispy Coconut Prawns: The Ultimate Homemade Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 20-30 count Large Prawns (Opt for 20/30 count prawns for best meatiness.); 1 cup Desiccated Coconut (Choose unsweetened.); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.); 1/2 cup Plain Flour (Consider seasoned flour for extra flavor.); 2 large Eggs (A vegan alternative can also be used.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Adjust according to spice tolerance.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can also be used.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground is recommended.); to taste Salt

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As the sizzle of prawns in the hot oil fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. These Crispy Coconut Prawns, perfectly encapsulating that delightful restaurant-style crunch, have a special way of bringing everyone together. Coated in a golden layer of desiccated coconut and panko breadcrumbs, they deliver both flavor and texture that’s simply irresistible. The best part? They’re quick and easy to whip up, making them a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Plus, they’re gluten-free if you choose the right breadcrumbs, so everyone can enjoy this tropical treat without worry. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will make your taste buds dance!

Why Are Crispy Coconut Prawns Irresistible?

Crunchy, Flavorful Experience: Each bite delivers a delightful crunch combined with the tender juiciness of prawns. Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it’s from your favorite restaurant. Gluten-Free Option: Tailor the recipe using gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crowd-pleasing starter. Versatile Serving Ideas: Pair them with a homemade sweet chilli dip or include them in a seafood platter for a lovely spread. Enjoying these coconut prawns brings the tropical vibes right to your kitchen! If you’re interested in more seafood inspiration, check out my recipes for Coconut Shrimp Thai and Salmon Bowls Coconut.

Crispy Coconut Prawns Ingredients

• Get ready to create the ultimate homemade delight!

For the Prawns

Large Prawns – Opt for 20/30 count prawns for the best meatiness; smaller prawns can also work if needed.
Desiccated Coconut – Choose unsweetened to achieve the perfect sweet and nutty flavor when fried.

For the Coating

Panko Breadcrumbs – Lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, they help keep the prawns nice and crunchy; you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs in a pinch, but the texture will change.
Plain Flour – Provides a crispy outer layer; consider seasoned flour for extra flavor.
Eggs – Help bind everything together; a vegan alternative can also be used if desired.

For the Spice Mix

Smoked Paprika – Adds a hint of heat and a beautiful color; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh garlic can also be used for boldness.
Onion Powder – Complements the other spices and adds depth to the flavor.
Black Pepper – Freshly ground will give a stronger kick; salt to taste.

Enjoy making these crispy coconut prawns, an irresistible seafood appetizer perfect for impressing your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Coconut Prawns

Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
Begin by peeling and deveining the large prawns, leaving the tails on for a beautiful presentation. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any residual grit and then drain in a colander. This initial step ensures your crispy coconut prawns start with a clean slate and ready-to-cook ingredients.

Step 2: Season the Flour
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the plain flour with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all spices are evenly distributed. This seasoned flour provides a flavorful base for your prawns, adding a deliciously satisfying layer beneath the crispy coating.

Step 3: Prepare Coating
In another bowl, combine the desiccated coconut and panko breadcrumbs. Stir them together until well mixed; this crispy mixture adds that delightful texture to your crispy coconut prawns. The combination of coconut and panko will create a golden crunch that’s impossible to resist!

Step 4: Egg Mixture
In a separate small bowl, whisk the eggs with a tablespoon of water until well combined. This egg wash acts as the adhesive that helps bind the coating to the prawns, ensuring that every bite of your crispy coconut prawns is packed with flavor and crunch.

Step 5: Coat the Prawns
Take each prepared prawn and dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the prawn in the coconut and panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Place each coated prawn on a lined baking tray to keep them organized.

Step 6: Chill Prawns
Once all the prawns are coated, place the baking tray in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as it helps the coating adhere firmly to the prawns, ensuring a delightful crispiness when frying your homemade crispy coconut prawns.

Step 7: Fry Prawns
In a deep pot or heavy skillet, heat oil to 325°F (163°C) over medium heat. Working in small batches, carefully add about five prawns at a time and fry them for approximately 2 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to soggy prawns.

Step 8: Drain and Serve
Once the prawns are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve your crispy coconut prawns warm, accompanied by a homemade sweet chilli dip for an irresistible starter that will impress everyone at the table.

What to Serve with Crispy Coconut Prawns?

Elevate your dining experience with perfectly paired sides that enhance the tropical flavor of these crispy delights.

Sweet Chilli Dip: This essential companion brings a burst of sweetness and heat, perfectly complementing the coconut prawns’ tropical flair. It’s a match made in heaven!
Crispy Green Salad: A light salad tossed with crunchy veggies and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and crispy prawns. Think of it as a delightful palate cleanser.
Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice resonates with the prawns’ flavor while providing a soft, tender backdrop. The coconut theme shines through, creating a harmonious meal experience.
Mango Salsa: Fresh and fruity, mango salsa offers a bright burst of flavor with every bite. The sweetness of ripe mango complements the prawns beautifully, enhancing their tropical vibe.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables add a hearty element with earthy flavors, balancing the sweetness of the coconut. Roasting intensifies their natural taste, while the colors brighten your plate!
Sparkling Water with Lime: To round out this tropical feast, sip on sparkling water infused with a squeeze of lime. It’s refreshing and seals the meal with a hint of zest, aligning perfectly with the prawns.

Crispy Coconut Prawns: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect crispy coconut prawns experience!

Spicy Kick: Mix cayenne pepper into the flour for a fiery flavor that complements the sweetness of the coconut.
Herbed Crisp: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the coconut and panko mixture for a fresh, fragrant twist.
Coconut Flavors: Swap sweetened coconut flakes for desiccated coconut for added sweetness; just adjust the sugar in your dip accordingly.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious appetizer without worry.
Seafood Variation: Try using scallops or fish fillets instead of prawns for a delightful change in texture and flavor.
Asian Twist: Add a splash of soy sauce to the egg wash for a hint of umami that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Fried vs. Baked: For a healthier version, bake the prawns at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping midway until golden.
Tropical Flavor Boost: Serve crispy coconut prawns with a side of mango salsa or a pineapple-chipotle dip for a tropical flair that will have everyone asking for seconds!

These variations will make your crispy coconut prawns an unforgettable treat! And if you’re craving more delightful seafood options, don’t forget to explore my recipes for Chilli Beef Flavor and Bang Bang Salmon to keep the culinary inspiration flowing.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Coconut Prawns are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the prawns up to 24 hours in advance by completing steps 1 through 6. Simply peel and de-vein the prawns, season the flour, prepare the coconut coating, and coat each prawn as directed. Once coated, chill them in the refrigerator for at least an hour, which not only helps the coating adhere but also allows for easier frying later. On the day you plan to serve, just heat the oil and fry the prawns until golden brown, and you’ll have fresh, restaurant-quality crispy coconut prawns ready in no time!

Expert Tips for Crispy Coconut Prawns

Choose Quality Prawns: Use large, fresh prawns to enhance flavor and texture; smaller prawns may work but can be less meaty.
Proper Chilling: Refrigerate the coated prawns for at least an hour before frying; this ensures the coating adheres properly and stays crispy.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 325°F for optimal frying; too hot may burn the coating, while too cool can make them greasy.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry a few prawns at a time to maintain oil temperature and achieve the perfect crispiness.
Press Coating Down: Gently press the coconut and panko mixture onto the prawns to ensure it sticks; this will yield beautifully crispy coconut prawns.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Coconut Prawns

Fridge: Store leftover crispy coconut prawns in an airtight container for up to 1 day. This maintains their flavor, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, place uncooked coated prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake thawed crispy coconut prawns in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, ensuring they regain their crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions: Pair leftover prawns with a fresh sweet chilli dip after reheating for a delightful appetizer experience!

Crispy Coconut Prawns Recipe FAQs

What type of prawns should I use?
I recommend using large prawns, typically those counted at 20/30 per pound, as they tend to be juicier and meatier. However, if smaller prawns are what you have on hand, they can work just as well! Just remember that the cooking time might be a bit less for smaller ones.

How should I store leftover crispy coconut prawns?
Leftover crispy coconut prawns can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day in the refrigerator. To keep them as crispy as possible, avoid stacking them. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I suggest reheating them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

Can I freeze crispy coconut prawns?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked coated prawns, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll have delicious homemade crispy coconut prawns ready to fry whenever you crave them!

What should I do if my coating isn’t sticking?
If you find that the coating isn’t adhering properly, try these steps: ensure your prawns are well-drained after rinsing, as excess moisture can prevent the coating from sticking. When coating, make sure to press the coconut and panko mixture firmly onto the prawns. A good chilling time of at least 1 hour in the fridge also helps! If you ever find yourself in this situation, don’t fret—it happens to the best of us.

Are crispy coconut prawns gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily make crispy coconut prawns gluten-free by using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour. This way, everyone, including those with gluten sensitivities, can enjoy this delightful appetizer without worry. Be sure to check labels on your breadcrumbs and flour to confirm they meet your dietary needs.

Can I use an air fryer instead of frying?
Certainly! If you’d like to make crispy coconut prawns in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated prawns in a single layer in the basket, spritz lightly with oil, and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. This method is a healthier alternative and still delivers fantastic results.