Crunchy Coconut Shrimp With Sweet Orange Marmalade Sauce

Chef mariajane's Note:

Dazzle your party guests with homemade coconut shrimp - succulent tail-on shrimp are wrapped in a crunchy coconut and shredded wheat coating, fried until golden brown and served with a tangy Key West-inspired orange and lime sauce. Irrestible, so be sure to make lots!!

• Total Time: 30 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins

Ingredients:

Yield: 24 shrimp

DIP

• 1 ½ cups smucker's orange marmalade
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 teaspoons criscovegetable oil or 2 teaspoons canola oil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon hot sauce (or to taste)

SHRIMP

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¾ cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 ½ cups crushed unsweetened shredded wheat
• ½ cup shredded coconut
• 24 large tail shrimp , tail shell attached (about 1 1/2 lb.)

Directions:

1. DIP: Place all ingredients into a food processor and pulse until smooth and place mixture in a small serving bowl; set aside.
2. SHRIMP: Melt enough shortening or oil to equal 2-inches in a deep frying pan or use and electric deep fryer heated to 365°F.
3. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, jerk seasoning, and paprika. Pour coconut milk in a second bowl. In a third shallow dish, combine the crushed shredded wheat and coconut. Layout cooling racks and place waxed paper underneath to catch drippings.
4. Hold each shrimp by the tail, coat with flour mixture, dip into coconut milk then into crushed shredded wheat mixture. Place shrimp on rack and repeat process until all shrimp are done.
5. Fry 6-8 shrimp are at a time for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. NOTE: Shrimp may be prepared in advance and frozen for up to 2 weeks. To serve, defrost slightly and re-crisp in the oven at 375°F.