Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style)

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the delightful flavors of a Chinese buffet right into your home, then you’ve landed in the perfect spot! The Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style) is one of those recipes that feels special yet is so easy to whip up. It’s creamy, sweet, and packed with flavor, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it has that comforting vibe that makes every bite feel like a hug.

What truly makes this dish shine is its secret ingredient—coconut milk—that adds a luscious creaminess you won’t want to miss. Trust me, once you try making this at home, you’ll wonder why you ever went out for takeout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 35 minutes.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and creamy taste of these shrimp. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-ahead option: Prep the shrimp ahead of time for an even quicker dinner on busy days.
• Versatile flavors: Feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your taste; it’s all about what you love!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you need to create the Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style):

For the Shrimp Mixture

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 large egg white
• 2 tablespoons water (or Chinese rice apple vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
• 3/4 cup coconut milk (full-fat)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

For Coating and Frying

• 1 teaspoon neutral oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated or minced)
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is making recipes your own! Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for shrimp, try using chicken or tofu instead for a different twist!
• Add some heat: Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the sauce.
• Coconut twist: For extra coconut flavor, toss in some shredded coconut while frying.
• Veggie lovers: Mix in some veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.

How to Make Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

Start by whisking together the egg white, water (or vinegar), and coarse salt in a medium bowl. This mixture helps create a nice coating on our shrimp. Next, gently fold in the cleaned shrimp until they are completely covered. This step is crucial because it ensures that every piece of shrimp gets that delicious flavor from our mixture!

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In another bowl, combine coconut milk, sugar, mayonnaise, white vinegar, cornstarch, and additional coarse salt. Mixing these ingredients creates a luscious sauce that will coat our shrimp beautifully during frying. Make sure everything is well combined; this is where all those sweet flavors come together!

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Now it’s time to get those shrimp ready for frying! In one bowl, mix cornstarch and baking powder. Take each piece of coated shrimp from the mixture and dredge it in this dry mix until fully coated. This will give them that crispy texture we love!

Step 4: Frying Time!

Heat your neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (you can test by dropping in a bit of batter—if it sizzles, you’re good!), carefully add your shrimp one by one. Fry them until golden brown on both sides—about 2-3 minutes per side should do it! Remember not to overcrowd the pan; this ensures each piece gets crispy.

Now that you’ve created your very own Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style), serve them warm with extra sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style)

Creating the perfect coconut shrimp is easier than you might think, especially with a few handy tips!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slightly sweet smell.
• Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: Coating the shrimp in cornstarch before frying helps achieve that crispy, golden exterior. It acts as a barrier to keep moisture in while allowing the shrimp to cook evenly.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The sugar in the sauce can be adjusted based on your personal preference. If you like it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more, but remember that too much can overpower the delicate flavors of the coconut.
• Keep Oil Temperature Consistent: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp; this ensures they fry quickly and maintain their juiciness. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Experiment with Dipping Sauces: While the coconut sauce is delicious, don’t hesitate to try different dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or a tangy mango salsa for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style)

Serving your coconut shrimp beautifully can enhance both its appearance and overall dining experience. Here are some ideas to help you present this delectable dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions not only add a pop of color but also provide a fresh crunch that complements the creamy coconut sauce.
• Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and an extra hint of coconut flavor that ties everything together.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, jasmine rice is a classic pairing that soaks up all those delicious flavors from the coconut shrimp sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli adds nutrition and vibrancy to your meal. Toss them in soy sauce for extra depth.
• Crispy Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls filled with veggies make a great appetizer or side dish that complements your main course without overshadowing it.
• Asian Noodle Salad: A refreshing cold noodle salad dressed in sesame oil offers a delightful contrast in temperature and texture alongside your warm coconut shrimp.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with your homemade Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dish throughout the week. With its sweet and creamy flavors, it’s perfect for those busy evenings or when you’re hosting friends.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover coconut shrimp in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the shrimp separate from any sauces to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked shrimp to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For best results, reheat on a baking sheet to retain crispiness.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delicious dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries regarding Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style).

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before using. This ensures the coating adheres better and helps achieve that crispy texture.

What is the secret ingredient in Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style)?

The secret ingredient that gives this dish its unique flavor is coconut milk combined with a touch of sugar. This creates that sweet and creamy sauce reminiscent of your favorite buffet-style shrimp!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style) gluten-free, simply ensure that all ingredients, especially cornstarch and mayonnaise, are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Best Chinese Coconut Shrimp (Buffet Style) as much as I do! Its sweet, creamy taste will transport you straight to your favorite buffet table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy and delicious aromas!