Valentine's Day Chocolate Coated Shrimp

Name: Valentine's Day Chocolate Coated Shrimp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup sparkling water; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I absolutely love creating unique dishes for special occasions, and this Valentine's Day Chocolate Coated Shrimp is one of my all-time favorites. Combining succulent shrimp with the richness of dark chocolate turns a classic seafood dish into something truly extraordinary. I was inspired by the flavors of sweet and savory, and I believe this dish showcases that beautifully. Serve it as an appetizer or a whimsical side, and watch your loved ones' faces light up with surprise and delight.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:02:31.831Z

When I first paired shrimp with chocolate, I was uncertain about the reaction. However, after crafting this dish and allowing friends to taste it, I was thrilled by the enthusiastic responses! The crispy coating of chocolate creates an unexpected contrast with the tender shrimp, making each bite a delightful surprise.

What sets this recipe apart is the use of high-quality dark chocolate. It provides a deep flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. To ensure the chocolate adheres perfectly, dipping the shrimp in a light batter before coating creates a delicious textural contrast, amplifying the experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unique sweet and savory flavor combination
Elegant presentation perfect for romantic settings
Easy to make yet impressively gourmet

      

Creating the Perfect Batter

The batter is crucial for achieving the ideal crispy texture for your shrimp. By combining all-purpose flour and cornstarch, you get a light, airy coating that will fry beautifully. I recommend using sparkling water at room temperature; it contributes to a lighter batter due to its carbonation. Stir the batter gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to a tough coating. Aim for a consistency similar to that of pancake batter—thick enough to cling to the shrimp without sliding off.

When preparing the shrimp, make sure they are thoroughly dried. Excess moisture can lead to oil splattering and can also prevent the batter from adhering properly. I like to lay them out on a clean kitchen towel for a few minutes before starting the batter preparation. This small step ensures that the batter sticks beautifully during frying, resulting in a delightful crunch once cooked.

Frying Techniques

Frying shrimp can be a bit tricky, but it’s important to monitor the oil temperature closely. Ideally, the oil should be at around 350°F (175°C) before adding your shrimp. Using a deep-frying thermometer can help you maintain accuracy. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and lose that desired crispness. Conversely, if it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the shrimp are cooked through.

Fry the shrimp in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature. Each batch should take about 2-3 minutes, and you'll know they're done when they turn a golden brown and become slightly puffed. After frying, draining the shrimp on paper towels is essential; this excess oil will make the chocolate coating soggy rather than give it that wonderful crisp contrast.

Chocolate Coating Tips

For the chocolate coating, using high-quality dark chocolate makes a significant difference in flavor. Aim for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa; the bitterness complements the sweetness of the shrimp perfectly. The addition of coconut oil not only helps the chocolate melt smoothly but also creates a glossy finish that makes the shrimp look appealing. Ensure the chocolate is completely melted and smooth before dipping to avoid uneven coverage.

When dipping the shrimp, let the excess chocolate drip off to avoid clumping. This will aid in achieving a clean and attractive appearance. After placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, chilling them in the fridge for about 10 minutes will help the chocolate set quickly without melting away. This technique not only preserves the elegance of the dish but also ensures that each bite offers that delightful sweet and savory contrast you’re aiming for.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Coating

200g dark chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Shrimp

500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup sparkling water
Oil for frying

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add sparkling water to create a light batter.

Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. You should have enough oil to cover the shrimp when they’re added.

Fry the Shrimp

Dip shrimp into the batter and gently place them into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let drain on paper towels.

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.

Coat the Shrimp

Dip each fried shrimp into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Set and Serve

Chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes to set the chocolate before serving.

These make a fantastic appetizer for special occasions.

Pro Tips

Experiment with flavored chocolate, such as chili or orange-infused, for an extra twist.

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate-coated shrimp can be served as a luxurious appetizer or a whimsical side dish. Pair them with a light salad, perhaps featuring mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the chocolate. Additionally, a spicy dipping sauce or a tangy citrus salsa can enhance the flavor, providing an exciting contrast to this unique combination.

For a romantic touch, arrange the shrimp on a platter with fresh flowers or herbs, creating a visually stunning dish that is sure to impress. You can also serve them alongside a glass of champagne or a light white wine to enhance the dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers (which is rare), store the chocolate-coated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the chocolate coating may lose some of its texture when stored. While reheating isn’t generally recommended, if needed, you can place them in an oven at low heat (about 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes just until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can cause them to become chewy.

For meal prep, you can fry the shrimp ahead of time and freeze them uncoated. Thaw before dipping in the chocolate and then proceed with the coating steps. This allows you to achieve fresh, crispy shrimp whenever you're ready to impress your guests—all the flair with minimal last-minute effort!

Ingredient Variations

If you're looking for a twist, consider using different types of chocolate for the coating. White chocolate can add a sweet creaminess that contrasts nicely with the savory shrimp, or even a mix of milk chocolate and dark chocolate for a balanced flavor. Additionally, adding a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed nuts to the chocolate-coated shrimp before it sets will enhance their flavor and texture.

For those needing dietary adjustments, you can swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version. Ensure the cornstarch remains in the recipe as it contributes to the lightness of the batter, making it ideal for frying. Remember, experimentation might yield even more delightful flavors, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that it will make the flavor sweeter and change the overall taste.

→ How do I store leftover chocolate coated shrimp?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat lightly before serving.

→ Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying them?

Baking is not recommended for this recipe as the batter might not adhere properly, and you may not achieve the same crunchy texture.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Light salads or vegetable skewers complement the flavors nicely.