Montserrat Driftwood Bites

Introduction and History

Montserrat Driftwood Bites are an innovative creation inspired by the natural beauty and rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean island of Montserrat. Known for its rugged coastline and lush greenery, Montserrat has a vibrant history and culture that is deeply intertwined with its cuisine. The concept of "driftwood" comes from using a variety of locally available ingredients that reflect the diversity and abundance of the island. This dish brings together flavors that are both unique and familiar, creating a truly Caribbean experience.

Ingredients

• Coconut
• Shrimp
• Plantain
• Lime
• Garlic
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper
• Onion
• Allspice
• Thyme
• Flour
• Egg
• Bread Crumbs
• Salt
• Vegetable Oil

Preparation and Cooking Process

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Begin by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. Place them in a bowl and add freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, and finely chopped Scotch Bonnet Pepper. Sprinkle with allspice, a pinch of salt, and a few sprigs of thyme. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Coating

While the shrimp are marinating, prepare the coconut coating. Crack open a fresh coconut and grate the flesh into a bowl. In another bowl, whisk an egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Place flour on a plate, and bread crumbs in a separate bowl.

Step 3: Coat and Fry the Shrimp

1. Toss the marinated shrimp in flour to lightly coat them.
2. Dip each flour-coated shrimp into the egg wash, ensuring complete coverage.
3. Roll the egg-washed shrimp in the grated coconut and bread crumbs.
4. In a pan, heat vegetable oil to frying temperature, approximately 350°F.
5. Carefully fry the coated shrimp in small batches until golden brown. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch. Use a cooking timer to ensure precision.
6. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Cook the Plantain Slices

Peel and slice the plantain into thick rounds. Using the remaining oil, fry the plantain slices until they are tender and caramelized. Season lightly with salt once cooked.

How to Enjoy

Serve the Montserrat Driftwood Bites hot and crispy, accompanied by the sweet and slightly savory plantain slices. These bites pair magnificently with a tangy dipping sauce made from lime juice and extra Scotch Bonnet Pepper for those who enjoy a touch more heat. The combination of the crunchy coconut with the spicy marinated shrimp offers a burst of flavors that reflect the culinary legacy of the Caribbean. Enjoy this dish while listening to some steelpan music to transport your senses to the beaches of Montserrat.