| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 270 | 16g | 2.5g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 5g | 20g | 1.2g |
There’s something deeply satisfying about intertwining flavors from various corners of the world, and the Rum-Glazed Shrimp with Grains of Paradise recipe does just that. The moment I first tasted this dish, it felt like a delightful dance of tastes on my palate, bringing forth memories of sunlit California beaches and vibrant Gujarati cuisines. Pairing shrimp with a rum glaze might sound unconventional, but believe me, the combination is divine.
Layers of Flavor
The secret to the magic of this dish lies in the meticulous balancing act between sweet, tangy, and spicy elements. Dark rum, honey, and lime juice create a luscious glaze that wraps around the shrimp elegantly. Then there’s the grains of paradise, a spice that isn’t commonly found in everyone’s kitchen but is definitely worth seeking out. Its warm, peppery notes add an exotic flair that differentiates this recipe from your usual seafood dishes.
Health Benefits
What also makes the Rum-Glazed Shrimp with Grains of Paradise a winning choice is its nutritional profile. Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein and provides ample amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. This dish also includes a medley of vegetables like mixed greens, red bell pepper, and avocado, offering a vibrant burst of vitamins and minerals. The addition of mango gives a delightful sweetness while infusing the dish with antioxidants and vitamin C.
If you’re looking to stay within a healthy dietary regime without compromising on taste, this recipe is a must-try. The olive oil used for cooking the shrimp ensures that you’re incorporating heart-healthy fats into your meal. Plus, the fresh cilantro not only adds a burst of color but also aids in digestion and detoxification.
Serving Suggestions
This dish stands alone as a gourmet offering but can pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a light quinoa salad or a coconut rice to soak up the rum glaze. The freshness and lightness of this recipe also make it a great starter for a more elaborate meal; maybe even as a precursor to a main course like grilled salmon or a hearty vegetable curry.
Similar to dishes like Caribbean Jerk Shrimp or Thai Sweet and Sour Shrimp, the Rum-Glazed Shrimp with Grains of Paradise captures the spirit of fusion cuisine. It’s a recipe that will make your guests feel like they’ve been transported to an exotic locale, all while enjoying the comfort of home-cooked goodness.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon grains of paradise, ground
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 large mango, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Method
Step One
In a medium bowl, combine the dark rum, honey, lime juice, vanilla extract, grains of paradise, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the ingredients are fully mixed together.
Step Two
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to marinate.
Step Three
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step Four
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped fresh cilantro, diced mango, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. Toss to mix.
Step Five
To serve, place the mixed salad greens on a large serving platter. Top with the shrimp, followed by the mango and bell pepper mixture. Arrange the avocado slices on top and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing. Enjoy!
