This Costco Freezer Find Is Always a Hit With My Guests (Its on Sale)

If there’s one word that’s synonymous with holiday, it’s "busy." Between all the cookie swaps, potlucks, and dinner parties, there’s a whole lot of baking and cooking to be done. Over the years, I’ve learned a few lessons that have helped things feel a little less chaotic during this time.

I started making and freezing the dough for my annual cookie boxes in advance. I’ve found a handful of simple recipes that I can whip up quickly so we can attend tree lightings and school concerts but still have a nutritious, satisfying meal when we return home. And most importantly, I load up the freezer with all of my favorite frozen appetizers.

Why I Love Royal Asia’s Coconut Shrimp

When it comes to putting together a good party spread, variety is key. Essential elements include a cheese and charcuterie board, a creamy dip, fresh fruit and crudites, and, of course, hot, crunchy finger foods.

I love changing up the latter, especially since stores like Trader Joe’s and ALDI always have new and interesting appetizers to try, but there is a staple I find myself adding to the menu every time because it’s become such a hit with guests: Royal Asia’s Coconut Shrimp with Thai Chili Sauce.

Nearly every major grocer has a version of coconut shrimp available, but I found most to be lackluster until I tried the ones by Royal Asia. This shrimp hits all the right notes. It reheats beautifully in the air fryer until golden brown and crunchy. The coconut fragrance is noticeable but not overwhelming.

The ratio of shrimp-to-breading is balanced, so you’re getting a bit of both with every bite. The accompanying Thai chili sauce is a bit sweet for my taste, but I’m also perfectly happy eating the shrimp plain or with tartar sauce if I have a jar in the fridge.

Royal Asia Coconut Shrimp With Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

• Price: $17.67 for 2 pounds of shrimp (30 to 35 pieces), but they are $4 off for a limited time

• Why I Love Them: This shrimp becomes beautifully golden brown and crunchy in the air fryer; the coconut fragrance is noticeable but not overwhelming; and the ratio of shrimp-to-breading is balanced, so you’re getting a bit of both with every bite.

Not only are they delicious, but the frozen app boasts a relatively short and straightforward ingredient list. They’re made with sustainably raised Pacific white shrimp that are coated in a breading studded with coconut flakes and seasonings. Since the coating is made with potato starch and rice flour, the coconut shrimp are also gluten free, which is a nice change from most store-bought breaded appetizers.

Boxes of Royal Asia’s Coconut Shrimp are available at Costco for $17.67 with $4 off for a limited time. Each box contains two pounds of shrimp, which is usually about 30 to 35 pieces. If you can’t find them at your local Costco, smaller bags are sold at many stores, including Target.

This isn’t the first time Royal Asia has caught my attention. I've been equally impressed by the quality and price of the brand’s steamed Prawn Hacao, and my family likes to pick up a box of the seasonal snowskin mooncakes for our annual mid-autumn moon festival gathering. Royal Asia is no stranger to my holiday celebrations—I already have boxes of the coconut shrimp in my freezer on standby.

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