Homemade Red Lobster-Style Coconut Shrimp Bites with Piña Colada Sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Piña Colada Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, cream of coconut, lime juice, and optional sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce. Continue to whisk and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the optional dark rum or rum extract. Let cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

2. 2

   Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.

3. 3

   Set up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper. In the second dish, whisk together eggs and milk/water until well combined. In the third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs and shredded sweetened coconut, mixing well.

4. 4

   Bread the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg wash, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, roll the shrimp in the panko-coconut mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even and thorough coating. Place the breaded shrimp on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Repeat with remaining shrimp.

5. 5

   Preheat Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.

6. 6

   Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add a few shrimp at a time to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Shrimp should curl into a 'C' shape. Do not overcook.

7. 7

   Drain and Serve: Remove the fried shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining shrimp, ensuring the oil temperature returns to the desired range between batches.

8. 8

   Serve immediately with the chilled Homemade Piña Colada Sauce.