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chinese coconut shrimp recipe Side view of creamy Chinese coconut shrimp stacked on a plate with broccoli

Creamy Chinese Coconut Shrimp

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Crispy, golden-fried jumbo shrimp tossed in a rich, sweet, and savory creamy coconut sauce. This better-than-takeout dish mimics the popular buffet favorite, finished with toasted coconut flakes and crunchy candied walnuts.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails left on or off)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 3 large egg whites, beaten until frothy
  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying
  • 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 3 tablespoons thick coconut cream
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup candied walnuts (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
  • Steamed broccoli florets (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the peeled shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Season them in a bowl with salt and white pepper. Let them sit for 5 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
  2. Set up a dredging station. Place the cornstarch in a shallow bowl and the frothy beaten egg whites in another. Lightly coat each shrimp in cornstarch, shake off excess, dip into the egg whites, and then coat again in cornstarch for a thick, crispy crust.
  3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a wok or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until they are golden, puffy, and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, honey, coconut cream, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
  5. While the shrimp are still warm (but not piping hot, or the sauce will separate), add them to the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss to coat evenly. Transfer to a serving platter, top with candied walnuts and toasted coconut flakes, and serve immediately with steamed broccoli.

Notes

For the crispiest results, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If the oil is too cool, the coating will be greasy. Serve immediately as the sauce will eventually soften the crust. You can substitute the walnuts with sesame seeds if preferred.

  • Author: Cook Reel
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 30g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg
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