Baked Coconut Shrimp and Broccoli Gratin

This is a fun combination that combines great textures and flavors that will fill your family with joy with every bite.

1 pound shrimp deveined and peeled
2 eggs
1 cup flour (halved)
1 bag shaved coconut (or whatever you can find)
2 teaspoons baking powder and baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste

1 bunch of fresh broccoli cut into florets (I also cut the stems into medallion)
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 onion minced
1 clove garlic minced
4 tablespoons flour
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups milk
1 cup mild cheddar cheese
1 cup Italian 3 cheese blend

Beat the eggs and add the baking soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, 1/2 cup flour and water. Whisk until smooth. Let this stand while working on the rest of the meal. Put 1/2 cup flour into a shallow dish. Put the coconut in another shallow dish. Peel the shrimp and rinse them well and pat dry. Put the shrimp in the flour then dip them in the batter then coat them in the coconut. Place them on a greased baking sheet. Let this sit while you get the broccoli gratin ready. Place the broccoli in a baking dish with a lid. Add the butter, onions and the garlic to a sauce pot. Melt the butter. Add the salt, pepper and cayenne. Add the flour and let cook for 1 minute. Add the milk and whisk to avoid lumps. Let this cook until thickened. Remove the sauce from the heat and add the cheese. Stir it in and pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli. Cover and place in a 400 degree oven on the middle rack. Put the shrimp on the top rack and bake for 30-35 minutes. For more on this recipe or any others please email me at alesia.leach@gmail.com