Island Steam

Introduction

Island Steam is a delightful and aromatic dish that captures the essence of coastal cuisines. Known for its tantalizing blend of seafood and spices, this recipe hails from tropical islands where the fresh catch of the day meets vibrant local flavors. The dish not only showcases the abundance of seafood but also exhibits the cooking techniques passed down through generations. While each island has its unique version, the core elements remain the same: fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and the gentle steaming method.

Ingredients

• Fish
• Shrimp
• Lobster
• Scallops
• Onion
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Lime
• Coconut Milk
• Coriander
• Chili
• Salt
• Pepper
• Carrot
• Bell Pepper
• Tomato
• Lemon Grass
• Bay Leaf

Preparation

Start by preparing the fish, shrimp, lobster, and scallops. Clean the seafood under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, combine the seafood with juice from a fresh lime, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to infuse the tangy flavors.

Cooking Process

Making the Aromatic Base

In a large steaming pot, heat up a bit of oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions become translucent. Add in slices of carrot, bell pepper, and chopped tomatoes. Stir well to ensure all the vegetables are coated with the aromatic base.

Adding Coconut and Spices

Pour in a can of coconut milk and stir to mix thoroughly with the sautéed vegetables. Incorporate a stalk of bruised lemon grass and a couple of bay leaves to the mix. For spice, add finely chopped chili as per your preference. Let the mixture simmer gently to blend the flavors, stirring occasionally.

Steaming the Seafood

Once the aromatic coconut base is ready, place the marinated seafood in a single layer on a steaming rack within the pot. Cover and let the seafood steam, absorbing the aromatic and rich coconut flavors. Steam for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the fish, shrimp, lobster, and scallops are cooked through but not overdone. You can check the doneness of the seafood by gently pressing with a fork; it should flake easily.

How to Enjoy

Island Steam is best enjoyed with a side of fluffy steamed rice or aromatic coconut rice. Serve the steamed seafood over a bed of rice, ladled generously with the aromatic coconut sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped coriander for a burst of color and freshness. Pair the dish with a chilled white wine or a tropical fruit juice to enhance the summery flavors and add a refreshing touch.

Finally, don't forget to set your timer as precision in steaming time is key to maintaining the perfect texture of the seafood.