Coconut shrimp is a popular appetizer or main dish consisting of shrimp that has been coated in coconut batter then deep fried. With its crispy coconut coating and tender shrimp interior, coconut shrimp makes a tasty treat. However, the battered coating and frying method also adds quite a few calories. So how many calories are in 7 coconut shrimp? Let’s take a closer look.
Calculating Calories in Coconut Shrimp
To determine the calorie count for 7 coconut shrimp, we first need to know the calorie content per shrimp. The calorie amount can vary depending on the size of the shrimp and how it is prepared. Here are some general nutrition estimates:
- Medium shrimp (about 30g or 1oz each) coated in coconut batter and deep fried would have around 150 calories per shrimp.
- Large shrimp (50g or 1.5oz each) prepared the same way would have approximately 250 calories each.
- Pre-bought frozen coconut shrimp often provide nutrition information per serving size. For a typical 3-4 piece serving size (about 85g) there are 320 calories total, or 80-105 calories per shrimp.
Using these estimates, we can calculate the calories for 7 shrimp:
| Shrimp Size | Calories Per Shrimp | Total Calories for 7 Shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| Medium (30g) | 150 | 150 x 7 = 1050 |
| Large (50g) | 250 | 250 x 7 = 1750 |
| Frozen (85g for 4 pieces) | 80-105 | 700-735 |
So for 7 average size coconut shrimp, you would consume 700-1050 calories total. The actual amount can vary based on factors like:
Factors Affecting Coconut Shrimp Calories
Shrimp size
As shown above, larger shrimp contain more calories per piece since they have more shrimp meat and coating. Jumbo shrimp can have over 300 calories each. Smaller popcorn shrimp around 100 calories or less due to their petite size.
Breading/batter type
The coating adds a significant number of calories. A light panko or flour breading will add less than a thick coconut-flavored batter. The batter is usually made with flour, eggs, and coconut. Using coconut milk instead of flour will cut some calories.
Cooking method
Deep frying adds the most calories, providing 150+ calories from the oil alone per shrimp. Air frying uses minimal oil for a lower calorie count. Baked coconut shrimp has the fewest calories since no oil is used.
Portion size
Obviously eating more shrimp means consuming more calories. A typical restaurant appetizer order contains 6-8 shrimp. Eating a full meal portion of 12-15 shrimp can double the calories.
Accompaniments
Dipping sauces like sweet Thai chili sauce, duck sauce, or piña colada sauce add extra calories, often around 50-150 calories per couple tablespoons. Side dishes like rice and fries also boost the meal’s calorie count.
Nutrition Benefits of Coconut Shrimp
While coconut shrimp is high in calories, it does provide some beneficial nutrition:
Protein
Shrimp are high in protein, with around 18g per 3oz serving. Protein helps build muscle, aids metabolism, and keeps you feeling full. The batter and frying method may decrease the protein content slightly.
Vitamin B12
Shrimp contain vitamin B12 which supports nerve function and energy levels. About 30% of the daily value is in a 3oz serving.
Selenium
This antioxidant mineral found in seafood promotes a healthy immune system and thyroid function. Shrimp provide over 30% DV.
Zinc
Zinc supports wound healing, immunity, and cell growth. A serving of shrimp has about 10% of the recommended daily zinc intake.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Shrimp have small amounts of anti-inflammatory omega-3s. However the frying process may deplete some of these healthy fats.
Ways to Make Coconut Shrimp Healthier
Here are some simple ways to enjoy coconut shrimp while reducing the calorie count:
– Choose smaller shrimp sizes.
– Use lighter breading rather than thick coconut batter.
– Bake, grill, or air fry instead of deep frying.
– Portion out just a few shrimp rather than the whole plate.
– Avoid caloric dipping sauces or choose lighter options like mustard or hot sauce.
– Pair with a side salad instead of rice or fries.
– Skip the appetizer shrimp and only order it as an entree with veggies.
Nutrition Comparison to Other Appetizers
How does coconut shrimp compare to other popular appetizers calorie-wise?
| Appetizer | Calories (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Coconut shrimp (5 large pieces) | 1250 |
| Chicken wings (6 wings) | 690 |
| Chicken quesadilla (1 medium tortilla) | 770 |
| Potato skins (3 skins) | 510 |
| Nachos (6 chips with toppings) | 500 |
While the calorie count can vary based on preparation, coconut shrimp tends to be one of the higher calorie appetizer options. Healthier picks include items like nachos, baked potato skins, or chicken wings.
Low Calorie Coconut Shrimp Recipe
This lighter version cuts the calories while keeping the signature coconut flavor:
Ingredients
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Olive oil cooking spray
Directions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together egg and coconut milk.
- In another shallow bowl, mix panko, coconut flakes, curry powder, salt and pepper.
- Dip shrimp in egg mixture, then press into panko coconut mixture to coat.
- Arrange breaded shrimp on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray.
- Bake 10-12 minutes until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce if desired.
Nutrition
This recipe makes 4 servings of 4 large shrimp each. Each serving has about 200 calories compared to 500+ for deep fried coconut shrimp.
The Bottom Line
Coconut shrimp is definitely a high calorie appetizer, with about 700-1050 calories total in 7 medium-size pieces. The exact calorie count can vary based on the shrimp size, coating type, cooking method and serving size. There are ways to lighten it up though by opting for smaller shrimp, baking instead of frying, and skipping heavy dipping sauces. Overall, coconut shrimp is a great occasional treat, but healthier appetizer picks include items like chicken wings, quesadillas, or nachos for less calories.