Tropical Brisbane Chill

Background and History

The Tropical Brisbane Chill is a refreshing dish inspired by the vibrant flavors and diverse culinary influences found in Brisbane, Australia. Known for its sunny beaches and tropical climate, Brisbane offers a bounty of fresh produce and seafood that lend themselves beautifully to the creation of this dish. The recipe incorporates locally sourced ingredients and adds a unique twist to traditional tropical dishes by combining them with cool, creamy elements, making it perfect for Brisbane's warm weather.

Ingredients

• Mango - 1 large, ripe
• Coconut Milk - 1 cup
• Lime - 1, juiced
• Shrimp - 250g, peeled and deveined
• Cucumber - 1, thinly sliced
• Mint - A handful of fresh leaves
• Chili - 1 small, finely chopped
• Rice Noodles - 200g
• Fish Sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Brown Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Peanuts - 1/4 cup, crushed
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp

Begin by marinating the shrimp. In a bowl, mix lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Add the shrimp, ensuring each piece is coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Preparing the Rice Noodles

In a large bowl, soak 200g of rice noodles in hot water for about 8-10 minutes or until softened. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Making the Coconut Sauce

In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of coconut milk over medium heat. Add minced garlic, finely chopped chili, and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently until it simmers, and then remove from heat.

Step 4: Preparing the Fresh Ingredients

Peel and slice the mango into long strips. Thinly slice the cucumber and roughly chop a handful of mint leaves. These will add freshness and crunch to the dish.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Sautéing the Shrimp

In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are thoroughly cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Combining the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened rice noodles, sautéed shrimp, sliced mango, cucumber, and chopped mint. Drizzle the coconut sauce over the top and gently toss to ensure everything is well-coated.

Step 3: Garnishing

Transfer the noodle mixture onto a serving platter and sprinkle with crushed peanuts. This will add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the tropical chill.

How to Enjoy

The Tropical Brisbane Chill is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. Serve it cold for maximum refreshment. Consider enjoying this dish with a chilled glass of mango iced tea to complement the tropical flavors. This dish makes an ideal meal for a summer lunch or a light dinner. Remember to set your cooking timer so each element of the dish is perfectly cooked and served fresh.