Joe’s Crab Shack Coconut Shrimp – Easy Copycat Recipe

Few appetizers capture the essence of tropical dining quite like Joe’s Crab Shack Coconut Shrimp. These golden, crispy morsels combine the sweetness of shredded coconut with tender, juicy shrimp to create a flavor explosion that transports you straight to a beachside paradise. What makes this dish irresistible is the contrast between the crunchy coconut coating and the succulent shrimp inside, all enhanced by a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to perfect coconut shrimp lies in the three-step breading process that creates maximum adhesion and crunch. By dusting the shrimp with cornstarch first, you create a dry surface that helps the egg wash stick. The combination of cornstarch and flour in the coconut mixture ensures a light, crispy coating that won’t fall off during frying, while the coconut flakes provide that signature tropical sweetness.

The American Tiki Bar and the Coconut Fried Shrimp Connection

After prohibition, Americans were ready to party, and Ernest Gantt, known better as Donn Beach, was just the man to throw them one. 

After completing a stint as a deckhand aboard a cargo ship that took him throughout the Far East and the South Pacific Islands, Gantt returned to the States to open Don’s Beachcomber in Hollywood in 1933. Exploiting the then-American fascination with Polynesian culture, he created an extremely popular pseudo-Polynesian-themed bar. Four years later, Gantt moved his operation across the street and opened the storied Don the Beachcomber, where he solidified the Tiki culture as a mash-up of kitschy decorations, strong drinks, and Cantonese cooking using tropical ingredients. It wasn’t long before Coconut Fried Shrimp became one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes. 

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make coconut shrimp:

• Raw large shrimp – Provide the perfect size and texture for coating and frying
• Large eggs – Create the binding layer that holds the coconut coating
• Cornstarch – Used for dusting and adds crispiness to the coating
• Flaked coconut – Provides the signature tropical flavor and crunchy texture
• Granulated sugar – Enhances the coconut’s natural sweetness
• Salt – Balances flavors and enhances the shrimp’s natural taste
• All-purpose flour – Helps bind the coating and creates structure
• Vegetable oil – Essential for deep frying at proper temperature

How to Make Joes Crab Shack Coconut Shrimp

Mix eggs with water and set aside.

Set 1/3 cup of the cornstarch aside for dusting shrimp.

Mix together the remaining cornstarch, coconut, sugar, salt, and flour.

Dust shrimp with cornstarch.

Dip dusted shrimp in eggs.

Roll shrimp in coconut mixture to coat with breading.

Heat oil for deep frying.

Carefully place shrimp in hot oil and fry until done.

Serve immediately with classic cocktail sauce or sweet and fruity pineapple plum sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked coconut shrimp in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Reheating Method: Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy.
• Freezing: Freeze breaded uncooked shrimp on baking sheets, then transfer to freezer bags. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to cooking time.

Love Shrimp? Try these recipes

• Shrimp and Grits with Gravy
• Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Linguine Recipe
• Red Lobster Shrimp Recipe
• Crispy Shrimp Tempura Recipes
• Carbonara with Shrimp
• Battered Shrimp Recipe
• Shrimp and Pasta Dinners
• DIY Honey Walnut Shrimp
• Bubba Gump Shrimp

Best Fried Fish Recipes

• Captain D’s Fish and Chips
• Long John Silver’s Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
• Best Beer Battered Fish and Chips Recipe

Be sure to check out more of my easy fish recipes and the best restaurant copycat recipes.