Ingredients:

  • 1 large ripe Fresh Mango (approx. 300g), peeled and chopped
  • 2 Tablespoons Lime Juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 Tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon Fresh Ginger, finely grated
  • Pinch of Salt
  • 1 lb King Prawns (Shrimp) (450 g), large, raw, peeled, deveined, tail-on preferred
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (60 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (divided)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 2 Large Eggs, lightly whisked
  • 1 1/2 cups Unsweetened Shredded Coconut (150 g)
  • Cooking Spray (High-heat oil, as needed)

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped mango, lime juice, honey, chili flakes, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt into a food processor or blender.
  2. Blend and Chill: Process until the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or chili heat as desired. Transfer the dip to a small bowl, cover, and chill in the refrigerator while preparing the prawns.
  3. Pat Dry: Thoroughly pat the peeled prawns dry using kitchen paper. This is essential for the coating to stick.
  4. Set Up Dredging Stations: Arrange three shallow dishes in a row: Dish 1 (Flour): Combine the flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Dish 2 (Egg Wash): Whisk the two large eggs until frothy. Dish 3 (Coconut): Spread the unsweetened shredded coconut and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  5. The Triple Dredge: Working in batches, dip each prawn into the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the egg wash, and finally press the prawn firmly into the coconut mixture, ensuring it is completely coated.
  6. Chill: Place the coated prawns onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet and chill in the freezer or refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. This chilling step is non-negotiable for a perfect, non-flaky coating.
  7. Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  8. Load and Spray: Lightly spray the air fryer basket. Arrange the prawns in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Spray the tops of the prawns lightly but thoroughly with cooking spray.
  9. Cook: Air fry the first batch for 6 minutes.
  10. Flip and Finish: Gently flip the prawns, lightly spray the other side, and cook for another 4–6 minutes, or until the prawns are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Transfer the cooked prawns and repeat with the remaining batches.