Aruban Tropical Burst
About Aruban Tropical Burst
The Aruban Tropical Burst is inspired by the vibrant culture and flavors of Aruba, a beautiful island located in the southern Caribbean Sea. Known for its sunny climate and pristine beaches, Aruba is also famous for its fusion of culinary traditions. The Aruban Tropical Burst combines tropical fruits and spices with seafood, reflecting the island's abundant natural resources and multicultural influences. This dish is perfect for bringing a taste of the tropics into your home and makes for a refreshing and invigorating culinary experience.
Ingredients
- Mango - 2 ripe, peeled and diced
- Pineapple - 1 cup, chopped
- Papaya - 1, peeled, seeds removed and cubed
- Lime - 2, juiced
- Red Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
- Shrimp - 1 pound, peeled and deveined
- Red Bell Pepper - 1, seeds removed and diced
- Coconut Milk - 1 cup
- Cilantro - 1/4 cup, chopped
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Habanero Pepper - 1, seeds removed and finely chopped
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon
Preparation
Preparing the Tropical Salsa
Begin by combining the mango, pineapple, and papaya in a large bowl. Add the lime juice, red onion, and cilantro, then mix well. Season with a pinch of salt. Set aside to let the flavors meld while preparing the shrimp.
Marinating the Shrimp
In another bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, garlic, and habanero pepper. Season with black pepper and salt to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to absorb the bold flavors.
Cooking Process
Cooking the Shrimp
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp along with the juices from the marinade. Sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Making the Coconut Sauce
In the same pan, add the diced red bell pepper and sauté until softened. Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan with the sauce and mix until everything is evenly coated.
Enjoying the Aruban Tropical Burst
Serving Suggestions
To serve the Aruban Tropical Burst, arrange a generous portion of fruit salsa on a serving plate. Place the shrimp over the salsa and drizzle with the coconut sauce. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed jasmine rice or a fresh green salad.
Perfect Pairings
Enhance your Aruban dining experience by pairing this dish with a crisp white wine or a tropical lemonade. The citrus notes will complement the sweet and spicy flavors of the dish, creating a refreshing balance that's sure to please the palate.
Remember, the cooking time for the shrimp is quick, so use a cooking timer to keep track and ensure perfect doneness. Enjoy your culinary journey with the flavors of Aruba!