where to buy coconut shrimp

Where to Find the Best Coconut Shrimp: The Ultimate Buying Guide

With its crispy coconut coating and sweet briny shrimp, coconut shrimp has secured its place as a beloved appetizer. But not all coconut shrimp is created equal. The quality can vary drastically depending on where you buy it. So where can you find the best coconut shrimp?

In this ultimate buying guide I’ll cover all the places you can buy coconut shrimp from stores to restaurants. I’ll break down the pros and cons of each to help you determine the best source for maximizing flavor and value. Let’s dive in so you’ll know exactly where to find great coconut shrimp near you.

Grocery Store Coconut Shrimp

For convenient home cooking, grocery stores like Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, etc offer packaged coconut shrimp options Here’s what to expect

Pros:

• Wide availability at most major grocery chains
• Budget-friendly prices, often under $10 for ~1 lb
• Raw, frozen shrimp for cooking at home
• Typically larger shrimp sizes (16-21 count)
• Includes cooking instructions and dipping sauces

Cons:

• Mediocre breading adhesion
• Not as flavorful as restaurant shrimp
• Prone to sogginess if not cooked properly
• Limited to mainstream national brands

Overall, grocery store coconut shrimp offers affordable convenience, but sacrifices somewhat on flavor and texture compared to shrimp from restaurants and seafood markets. The shrimp itself tends to be lower grade. National brands like SeaPak dominate most freezer aisles.

Seafood Market and Fresh Coconut Shrimp

For premium quality, visit local seafood markets selling fresh, hand-breaded coconut shrimp. Here’s what you’ll find:

Pros:

• Shrimp is graded higher for sweetness and texture
• Thicker, crispier homemade breading
• Coated immediately before purchase for optimal adhesion and crunch
• Fresher, more flavorful taste and aroma
• Often large “jumbo” U12-15 shrimp
• Supporting local businesses

Cons:

• Limited availability – not in every city
• Typically costs $12-18 per pound
• Must cook immediately before coating softens

The freshness and handmade cooking make seafood market coconut shrimp stand out. But the higher cost and narrow availability make this a sometimes splurge.

Coconut Shrimp from Restaurants

Restaurants offer the convenience of cooked coconut shrimp ready to eat. Quality ranges widely, but here are the norms:

Pros:

• No prep or cooking required
• Served hot and crispy, ideal texture
• Deep frying yields very crunchy coating
• Dipping sauces often included
• Can try smaller sizes to test flavors

Cons:

• Quality varies depending on the restaurant
• Tend to be on the greasy side
• Costs ~$12-15 for ~4-6 shrimp
• Limited ability to control portion sizes
• Takeout coating can get soggy

Restaurant coconut shrimp makes for a convenient appetizer if you find a reliable location. Prices can add up, but plates are fun for sharing.

Things to Look for When Buying Coconut Shrimp

Now that you know where to buy coconut shrimp, here are a few key points to look for no matter the source:

• <b>Color</b> – Coating should be an even golden brown, not pale or dark
• <b>Breading adhesion</b> – No excessive loose crumbs, evenly layered
• <b>Shrimp sizes</b> – Medium to jumbo shrimp have the best texture
• <b>Shrimp aroma and appearance</b> – Should smell and look fresh, no discoloration
• <b>Crunch</b> – Coating should feel very crispy, not soft or soggy
• <b>Price</b> – Typical range is $8 to $18 per pound

Evaluate coconut shrimp on these criteria before purchasing to maximize the quality and value you receive.

Tips for Cooking Frozen Grocery Store Coconut Shrimp

If buying frozen coconut shrimp at the grocery store, keep these preparation tips in mind:

• <b>Oven bake on a wire rack</b> at 425°F for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Flip halfway.

• <b>Air fry</b> at 400°F, flipping once, until crispy outside, about 5 minutes.

• <b>Pan fry</b> over medium high heat until deep golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.

• <b>Deep fry</b> at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes until crispy.

• <b>Pat dry</b> before cooking if any ice crystals have formed.

• <b>Separate</b> any shrimp that are stuck together.

• <b>Don’t microwave</b> – it makes the coating soggy.

Follow these tips to achieve the same crunchy texture and flavor restaurants offer.

Where to Buy Coconut Shrimp on a Budget

If seeking great coconut shrimp on a budget, try:

• Grocery store freezer aisles for packaged brands like SeaPak. Wait for sales or coupons.

• Happy hour at local restaurants during discounted appetizer specials.

• All-you-can-eat seafood buffets offering coconut shrimp among other items.

Take advantage of these budget-friendly options to satisfy your coconut shrimp craving for less.

Is Coconut Shrimp Healthy? Nutrition Facts to Know

Coconut shrimp is typically considered more of an indulgent appetizer than a health food due to the sodium, fat, and carbs from the coating. A 3-4 piece serving averages around:

• 200-300 calories
• 15g fat
• 20g carbs
• 500mg sodium

The coating adds calories, but the shrimp provides protein. Enjoy coconut shrimp in moderation as an occasional treat.

Where to Find the Best Coconut Shrimp Near You

The next time you’re craving the sweet crunch of coconut shrimp, you’ll know exactly where to find the good stuff. Trust me, the perfect golden crispy coating encasing plump, juicy shrimp is worth searching for. So get out there and start taste testing your way to your new favorite coconut shrimp spot!