California Avocado Ring with Prawns

California Avocado Ring with Prawns Recipe - Delicious USA Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This California Avocado Ring with Prawns recipe is a delightful and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party. The creamy avocado paired with the juicy prawns creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests.

History

The California Avocado Ring with Prawns recipe is a modern twist on classic avocado dishes. Avocados have been enjoyed for centuries in various cuisines around the world, but this particular recipe combines the creamy richness of avocados with the succulent sweetness of prawns to create a unique and delicious dish.

Ingredients

1 tbsp gelatine
0.5 pt (237 ml) chicken stock
3 california avocados
0.5 juice of half a lemon
0.5 oz (14 g) mayonnaise
0.25 pt (118 ml) double cream
salt and freshly ground black pepper
8 oz (227 g) peeled prawns
(Small cubes of cooked chicken or chicken may be substituted for the prawns)

How to prepare

Place the gelatine in a bowl with 4 tbsp of cold water and set it aside for a few minutes until it becomes spongy.
Heat the chicken stock in a pan, add the gelatine, and stir until it is dissolved.
Be careful not to let it boil over, as the gelatine will become stringy.
Peel, halve, and remove the stone from the avocado, reserving one half for garnish.
Mash the avocados with lemon juice, then mix in half of the mayonnaise, cream, and salt and pepper to taste.
Stir in the gelatine mixture and pour it into a 3 pt (1.42 liter) ring mold. Chill until set.
Combine the prawns with the remaining mayonnaise. Unmold the avocado ring and fill the center with prawns.
Garnish with the reserved avocado, cut into slices or cubes.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or cucumber to the prawn mixture for added freshness.
Substitute cooked lobster or crab meat for the prawns for a luxurious twist.
Top the avocado ring with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.

- Make sure to dissolve the gelatine completely in the chicken stock to ensure a smooth and firm texture.

- Chill the avocado ring thoroughly before unmolding to ensure it holds its shape.

- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the California Avocado Ring with Prawns as a starter or light main course with a side salad or crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to chill the avocado ring thoroughly to ensure it sets properly.

- Use a ring mold to create a beautiful presentation for this dish.

- Mix the prawns gently with the mayonnaise to avoid breaking up the prawns.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable stock or fish stock instead of chicken stock for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise for a lighter option.

- Use coconut cream instead of double cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the avocado ring and prawn mixture ahead of time and assemble the dish just before serving. Keep the avocado ring chilled until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the California Avocado Ring with Prawns with fresh herbs, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation. Serve on a bed of lettuce or arugula for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light and refreshing cocktail like a gin and tonic. Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the California Avocado Ring with Prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the prawn mixture in a pan over low heat, being careful not to overcook the prawns.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this California Avocado Ring with Prawns recipe contains approximately 250 calories, making it a moderate calorie dish that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet or looking to reduce their carb intake.

Fats

Avocados are a good source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The addition of mayonnaise and cream in this recipe adds to the overall fat content.

Proteins

Prawns are a good source of lean protein, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin E, vitamin C, and potassium. Prawns are also a good source of minerals such as zinc and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (prawns) and eggs (mayonnaise), which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Overall, this California Avocado Ring with Prawns recipe is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins and minerals.

Summary

The California Avocado Ring with Prawns is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the creamy richness of avocados with the succulent sweetness of prawns. With a balance of healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins and minerals, this dish is a nutritious and satisfying option for any occasion. Enjoy this flavorful and visually stunning dish with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for California Avocado Ring with Prawns. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to spend the afternoon browsing through my collection of cookbooks. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a colorful and enticing photo of a beautifully plated dish that immediately caught my attention.

The recipe called for ripe California avocados, plump prawns, fresh lettuce, and a tangy citrus dressing. It seemed like the perfect combination of flavors and textures, and I knew I had to give it a try. I had always loved cooking, and experimenting with new recipes was one of my favorite pastimes.

I decided to make a trip to the local market to gather all the ingredients I needed. The avocados were perfectly ripe, the prawns were fresh and sweet, and the lettuce was crisp and green. I could already imagine how delicious the final dish would be.

When I got home, I set to work preparing the ingredients. I carefully sliced the avocados in half, removed the pits, and scooped out the flesh. I then diced the prawns and tossed them in a marinade of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. The aroma that filled my kitchen was simply intoxicating.

Next, I arranged the avocado halves in a ring on a bed of lettuce leaves, filling the center with the marinated prawns. I drizzled the remaining marinade over the top, adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an extra pop of color.

As I placed the finished dish on the table, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction. The colors were vibrant, the flavors were fresh and bright, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my collection.

As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I couldn't help but wonder where this recipe had originated. Had it been passed down through generations of California families, or was it a modern creation inspired by the bounty of the West Coast? I made a mental note to research the history of the dish and learn more about its roots.

In the days that followed, I shared the recipe with friends and family, each of whom was just as enchanted by it as I had been. They marveled at the unique presentation and the harmonious blend of flavors, and many asked me for the recipe so they could recreate it in their own kitchens.

Over time, the California Avocado Ring with Prawns became one of my signature dishes, a go-to recipe for special occasions and gatherings. I loved how it showcased the abundance of fresh, seasonal ingredients that California had to offer, and how it brought a taste of the sunny West Coast to my dining table.

As the years passed, I continued to make the dish, refining the recipe and adding my own personal touches. I experimented with different herbs and spices, tried out new variations on the dressing, and even swapped out the prawns for other seafood options like crab or lobster.

But no matter how many times I made it, the California Avocado Ring with Prawns never failed to impress. It was a dish that captured the essence of California cuisine – fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this beloved recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for the sense of wonder and excitement that it sparked within me. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a creative outlet that allows me to express myself and share my love of food with others.

And in the case of the California Avocado Ring with Prawns, it was a recipe that not only delighted my taste buds but also connected me to the rich culinary history of the West Coast. It was a dish that brought together the best of California's bounty in a simple yet elegant presentation, a true testament to the beauty and versatility of the avocado.

As I take another bite of the avocado ring, savoring the creamy texture of the fruit and the succulent sweetness of the prawns, I can't help but smile. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and wonder that cooking can bring into our lives. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and explore new recipes, that sense of wonder will never fade.