Rio de Janeiro Tostada
Introduction
Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazil with this Rio de Janeiro Tostada. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Rio, this dish combines fresh ingredients with a fusion of traditional Brazilian and modern influences. Tostadas, originally hailing from Mexico, have found a special place in Brazilian cuisine, especially in Rio where the diverse culture and gastronomic fusion reign supreme.
The Rio de Janeiro Tostada is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer and provides a burst of tropical flavors in every bite. Crispy corn tortillas are topped with a colorful medley of black beans, avocado, grilled shrimp, and a zesty mango salsa that mirrors the vibrant energy of Rio's streets.
Ingredients
- Corn tortillas - 4 small
- Black beans - 1 cup cooked
- Avocado - 1, peeled and sliced
- Grilled shrimp - 12 medium-sized
- Mango - 1, diced
- Red onion - 1/4 finely chopped
- Cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Lime - 1, juiced
- Jalapeño - 1 small, seeded and minced
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
Preparation
The key to a perfect Rio de Janeiro Tostada is in the balance of flavors and textures. Begin by preparing your grilled shrimp. Season the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill on medium heat until they are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
Mango Salsa
In a bowl, combine the mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Next, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, just until slightly crisp and golden. Spread a layer of black beans on each tortilla. Arrange slices of avocado and top with grilled shrimp. Spoon the mango salsa generously over the top.
Cooking Instructions
Total preparation and cooking time: Approx. 25 minutes
- Grill shrimp over medium heat.
- Prepare mango salsa with mango, red onion, cilantro, lime, and jalapeño.
- Heat corn tortillas until slightly crisp.
- Assemble by layering with black beans, avocado, and shrimp.
- Top with the mango salsa.
Serving Suggestions
The Rio de Janeiro Tostada is best served fresh off the skillet while the tortillas maintain their crispness. Pair them with a chilled glass of passion fruit juice or a caipirinha to accentuate the vibrant flavors. This dish makes a delightful appetizer at a dinner party or a lively addition to your next summer cookout.
Encourage guests to squeeze fresh lime over their tostadas for an extra zing. The fusion of textures – the crunch of the tortilla, the creaminess of the avocado, and the succulence of the shrimp – is sure to leave you yearning for the next bite!