If you're a seafood lover who is trying to eat healthily, you might think that fried coconut shrimp is off the menu. But that's not necessarily the case - 4 oz (113 g) of jumbo coconut shrimp contains only 240 calories, making it a reasonable meal option even for those watching their waistlines.
Before you order, however, it's helpful to understand the nutritional profile of this dish. A 4 oz serving of jumbo coconut shrimp contains about 23 g of carbohydrates, 12 g of protein, and 11 g of fat. There are also a number of vitamins and minerals to be found in shrimp, including vitamin B12, phosphorus, and selenium.
So the next time you're perusing the menu at your favorite seafood restaurant, don't automatically write off the coconut shrimp. With some mindfulness and portion control, it can be a tasty and nutritious part of a balanced diet.
Calorie content of Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
As mentioned earlier, a 4 oz (113 g) serving of jumbo coconut shrimp contains just 240 calories. This makes it a good choice for those who are trying to maintain a healthy weight. However, it's important to keep in mind that portion control is key - if you eat an entire plate of coconut shrimp, you'll be consuming a lot more calories than if you stick to just a few shrimp. To put the calorie content of coconut shrimp in perspective, it's worth noting that a Big Mac from McDonald's contains 540 calories, while a large order of fries from the same chain contains 510. So if you're looking for a fast food alternative that is lower in calories, jumbo coconut shrimp might be a good choice.
Carbohydrate profile of Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
A 4 oz (113 g) serving of jumbo coconut shrimp contains about 23 g of carbohydrates. This includes 2 g of fiber and 4 g of sugar. While carbohydrates are an important part of a healthy diet, it's worth being mindful of your intake. If you're watching your carb intake, you may want to pair your coconut shrimp with a low-carb side dish, such as a salad or steamed vegetables.
Protein content of Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
A 4 oz (113 g) serving of jumbo coconut shrimp contains about 12 g of protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied after your meal. Protein is an important macronutrient that is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. If you're trying to increase your protein intake, pairing coconut shrimp with a protein-rich side dish, such as grilled chicken or tofu, can be a good way to get more of this nutrient in your diet.
Fat content of Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
A 4 oz (113 g) serving of jumbo coconut shrimp contains about 11 g of fat, including 7 g of saturated fat. While it's important to get some healthy fats in your diet, too much saturated fat can increase your risk of heart disease and other health problems. To keep your fat intake in check, you might want to pair your shrimp with a side of vegetables or opt for a lighter dipping sauce. Avoid dipping your shrimp in creamy sauces, as these are often high in fat and calories.
Sodium levels in Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
A 4 oz (113 g) serving of jumbo coconut shrimp contains about 420 mg of sodium. While sodium is an important mineral that helps regulate fluid balance in the body, too much sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems. If you're watching your sodium intake, you may want to avoid adding additional salt to your coconut shrimp. You can also choose a side dish that is lower in sodium, such as steamed vegetables or brown rice.
Cholesterol levels in Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
A 4 oz (113 g) serving of jumbo coconut shrimp contains about 95 mg of cholesterol. While cholesterol is an essential nutrient that is needed to produce hormones and other important substances in the body, too much cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease. If you're watching your cholesterol intake, you may want to limit your intake of shrimp or choose a plant-based protein source instead.
Vitamin and mineral content of Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
Jumbo coconut shrimp contains a number of important vitamins and minerals. A 4 oz (113 g) serving provides about 20% of your daily value of vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve function and DNA synthesis. Shrimp also contains phosphorus, which is important for bone health, and selenium, which can help boost your immune system. However, it's worth noting that jumbo coconut shrimp is not a particularly good source of other nutrients like vitamin C or iron. If you're looking to get more of these nutrients in your diet, you may want to pair your shrimp with a side dish that is rich in fruits and veggies, such as a mixed salad.
Health benefits of Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
While coconut shrimp is not exactly a health food, there are some potential benefits to including it in your diet. For one, shrimp are a good source of protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied after your meal. They are also low in calories, making them a good choice for those who are trying to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, shrimp contains a number of important nutrients that support overall health. For example, selenium is important for immune function, while phosphorus is essential for strong bones.
Serving size of Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
When it comes to coconut shrimp, portion control is key. A 4 oz (113 g) serving is a reasonable amount to consume in one sitting, but if you eat an entire plate of shrimp, you'll be consuming a lot more calories, fat, and sodium. If you're trying to control your portions, you can ask your server to box up half of your shrimp before it even arrives at the table. That way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without overindulging.
How to prepare Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
While it's delicious to order coconut shrimp at a restaurant, it's also fun to cook it at home. Here's a simple recipe for jumbo coconut shrimp: Ingredients: - 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- oil for frying
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
1. What is Jumbo Coconut Shrimp?
Jumbo Coconut Shrimp is a type of appetizer made with large-sized shrimp coated in a crispy coconut breading. It is typically served with a dipping sauce and is a popular menu item at seafood restaurants and bars.
2. How many calories are in Jumbo Coconut Shrimp?
A serving size of 4 oz (113 g) of Jumbo Coconut Shrimp contains approximately 240 calories. However, the exact number of calories may vary depending on the recipe and the type of dipping sauce used.
3. Is Jumbo Coconut Shrimp gluten-free?
It depends on the recipe and the brand of coating used. Some brands may contain gluten, while others may offer gluten-free alternatives. It is always best to check the label or ask the restaurant staff before ordering.
4. What are some popular dipping sauces for Jumbo Coconut Shrimp?
Some popular dipping sauces for Jumbo Coconut Shrimp include sweet chili sauce, mango salsa, honey mustard, and spicy mayo. However, the choice of dipping sauce may vary depending on the restaurant or personal preference.
5. Can Jumbo Coconut Shrimp be reheated?
Yes, Jumbo Coconut Shrimp can be reheated in the oven or microwave. However, it is important to note that reheating may affect the texture and crispiness of the coconut coating. It is best to consume Jumbo Coconut Shrimp immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.