Go Back
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour - 2 large eggs, beaten - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 8 small corn tortillas - 1 cup shredded cabbage, green or purple - 1 avocado, sliced - 1/2 cup lime crema (sour cream mixed with lime juice and salt) - Fresh cilantro, for garnish When I make these tacos, I focus on using fresh and quality ingredients. The large shrimp give a nice bite, while the coconut adds a sweet crunch. Panko breadcrumbs help create that crispiness we all love. I prefer unsweetened coconut to balance the flavors. The seasoning mix, which includes garlic powder and paprika, really enhances the shrimp's flavor. A pinch of salt and pepper rounds it out nicely. Don't skip the corn tortillas; they hold everything together and add authentic taste. For toppings, fresh cabbage gives a nice crunch. Slices of ripe avocado add creaminess. The lime crema brightens the dish and brings it all together. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor that is hard to resist. This combination of ingredients makes for a delightful meal. Each bite is a blend of textures and flavors that will impress anyone you serve. First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is key to getting that perfect crunch. Next, set up your breading station. You need three bowls: - One bowl with all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. - The second bowl holds the beaten eggs. - The third bowl combines shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs. This setup makes breading simple. Start by dredging each shrimp in the flour mixture. Shake off any extra flour. Then, dip the shrimp in the beaten eggs. Let the excess egg drip off. Finally, coat the shrimp with the coconut-panko mix. Press gently so it sticks well. Place the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd them. Lightly spray with cooking oil. This helps achieve that extra crispiness. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Flip the shrimp halfway through. They should turn golden brown and crispy. While the shrimp cooks, warm your corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Heat them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they are soft. Now, it’s time to assemble your tacos. Start with a layer of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Add 2 to 3 shrimp on top. Then, place slices of avocado and drizzle with lime crema. Finish by garnishing with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your tasty tacos! For the crispiest coconut shrimp, follow these best practices: - Preheat your air fryer: Always preheat to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking. - Don’t overcrowd: Place shrimp in a single layer to ensure air circulation. - Lightly spray with oil: A quick spray helps achieve that golden crunch. I recommend using avocado oil or canola oil for frying. They have high smoke points and won’t alter the taste. To make your tacos pop, consider these presentation tips: - Serve on a colorful platter with lime wedges for a fresh look. - Add a sprinkle of cilantro for that bright green touch. For sides, pair your tacos with: - Mexican street corn for sweetness. - Black bean salad for a hearty touch. To make homemade lime crema, mix: - 1/2 cup sour cream - Juice of 1 lime - Pinch of salt For extra zest, consider these toppings: - Sliced jalapeños for heat. - Fresh mango salsa for sweetness. - Chili powder for a smoky kick. These small tweaks can elevate your tacos to a whole new level! {{image_2}} To make these tacos gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas. You can find these in most grocery stores. For the breading, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Use ground almonds or crushed rice crackers for a nice crunch. This way, everyone can enjoy the tacos without worry. Want to spice things up? Add cayenne pepper to the flour mix for heat. Just a pinch can make a big difference. You could also try different seafood. For example, use fish like tilapia or cod. Each option gives the tacos a new taste and keeps things exciting. If you prefer a meatless meal, use plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. Just season them well to enhance the flavor. You can also swap shrimp for vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower work great. Roast or air fry them to get a perfect texture. This way, you can enjoy a tasty taco without the shrimp. To keep your shrimp tacos fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container. These tacos taste best within two days. Separate the shrimp from the tortillas and toppings. This keeps everything crisp. When reheating, avoid the microwave. Instead, use the air fryer. Heat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This method keeps the shrimp crispy. If you must use a microwave, cover the tacos with a damp paper towel. This helps prevent them from getting too dry. You can freeze the breaded shrimp before cooking. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. This method keeps them from sticking together. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To defrost, move the shrimp to the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Cook them right after defrosting. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Enjoy your crispy shrimp tacos anytime! Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 to 20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel. This step helps the breading stick better. If you skip this, the shrimp might be too wet. Wet shrimp can ruin the crispy texture you want. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake or pan-fry the shrimp. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. For pan-frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Both methods work well; just watch the cooking time closely. Making lime crema is easy. In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of sour cream with the juice of 1 lime. Add a small pinch of salt to taste. Stir well until smooth. If you want a bit more flavor, you can add a dash of garlic powder or some chopped cilantro. This creamy mix adds a great zing to your tacos! We explored how to make crispy shrimp tacos from scratch. You learned about essential ingredients, the step-by-step cooking method, and special tips. I shared variations to suit different diets and preferences, plus ways to store leftovers. Remember, a perfect taco combines crunch, flavor, and creativity. With practice, you can impress anyone with your cooking. Now, get started and enjoy every delicious bite you make!

Air Fryer Crispy Coconut Shrimp Tacos

Discover the delicious world of Air Fryer Crispy Coconut Shrimp Tacos! This easy recipe combines succulent shrimp coated in crunchy coconut and panko, all served in warm corn tortillas with fresh avocado and zesty lime crema. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant taco night! Click now to learn how to make these flavorful tacos that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy healthy eating with a tropical twist!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

8 small corn tortillas

1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)

1 avocado, sliced

1/2 cup lime crema (1/2 cup sour cream mixed with juice of 1 lime and a pinch of salt)

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

    Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; the second with beaten eggs; and the third with a mix of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.

      Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

        Dip the shrimp in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.

          Finally, coat the shrimp with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

            Place the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Lightly spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.

              Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy.

                While the shrimp are cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side until slightly charred and pliable.

                  Assemble the tacos by placing a layer of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Top with 2-3 shrimp, slices of avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema.

                    Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the tacos on a colorful platter with lime wedges on the side for an added pop of color and zest.