| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 12 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 10g | 2g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 3g | 40g | 1.2g |
There’s a certain charm in combining two seemingly different elements to create a harmonious blend. The Grilled Shrimp with Dragonfruit Sauce does exactly that, marrying the robust favor of seafood with the refreshing tanginess of an exotic fruit. Drawing from my Japanese roots and the bounties of the Pacific Northwest, this gourmet dish is a testament to my dual heritage.
The Harmonious Blend of Flavours
My years of travelling to Japan taught me not just about our traditional cuisine, but also deepened my appreciation for seafood. The Grilled Shrimp with Dragonfruit Sauce has grilled shrimps that exude a rich, smoky flavor, and this robustness is perfectly balanced by the refreshing, tangy dragon fruit sauce. But don’t discount the dragonfruit as mere tanginess – it offers a subtle sweetness that complements the honey-infused marinade used on the shrimp, creating a complex flavor profile that dances on your palate.
Healthy Indulgence
Not only does this dish taste amazing, it’s also packed with health benefits. Shrimp is a great source of protein and it’s low in calories. Plus, it contains iodine and selenium, important minerals for maintaining a healthy thyroid (source: Healthline). Dragonfruit, on the other hand, is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C that support a strong immune system (source: Medical News Today). Adding honey and lime juice gives additional vitamin C and antibacterial properties, thereby packing it with the good stuff.
If you’re familiar with Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, this recipe might remind you of their epicurean play on sweet and sour flavors. It would also complement a variety of dishes like teriyaki chicken or salmon and jasmine rice or for a broader spread, throw in some summer rolls and green salad.
To sum it up, the Grilled Shrimp with Dragonfruit Sauce is more than just a seafood dish – it’s a culinary journey encapsulating my passion for fresh, vibrant flavors that don’t compromise on health. Each bite is a celebration of where I’ve come from and the exciting places food continues to take me.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups of dragonfruit pulp, fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Skewers for grilling
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
First, you need to make the dragonfruit sauce. Blend dragonfruit pulp, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes (if you like a bit of kick) in a blender. Blend until the sauce is smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the sauce aside.
Step Two
Prepare the grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Also, ensure to soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use if they are wooden. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
Step Three
In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt and pepper. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, piercing each shrimp near the tail and near the head.
Step Four
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill each side for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred. Be sure to turn the skewers only once during the grilling process.
Step Five
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the grill and promptly baste them with the dragonfruit sauce. Let them sit for a minute or two to allow the shrimp to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Step Six
Finally, transfer the shrimp skewers to a serving platter, drizzle with remaining sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Your Grilled Shrimp with Dragonfruit Sauce is now ready to be served and enjoyed immediately.
