Citrus-crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum

Citrus-Crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Citrus-crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum recipe is a flavorful and unique dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and lime with the sweetness of brown sugar and the heat of jalapeño. The starfruit adds a tropical twist, while the rum adds a touch of sophistication. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party.

History

This recipe was inspired by traditional Caribbean flavors and ingredients. The combination of citrus, rum, and seafood is a classic in Caribbean cuisine, and this dish puts a modern twist on that classic flavor profile. The addition of starfruit adds a unique and unexpected element to the dish, making it truly stand out.

Ingredients

12 large shrimp
2 lemons, zested and juiced
2 limes, zested and juiced
1 jalapeño pepper, diced
1 tbsp white peppercorns, crushed
1 tbsp coarse salt
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sliced ginger root
2 starfruit, sliced crosswise
2 oz (57 g) rum

How to prepare

The zest refers to the colored part of the lemon and lime rind.
Use a vegetable peeler to remove it, then finely chop it.
Combine lemon and lime zest, jalapeño, and white peppercorns, and set them aside.
Peel the shrimp and butterfly them by cutting lengthwise so that the shrimp open like a book and lie almost flat.
Do not cut them in half.
Combine lemon and lime juice with brown sugar in a small saucepan and simmer until only 3 tbsp remain.
Add the salt and zest mixture.
Cook for one more minute and remove from heat.
Moisten with 1 tbsp olive oil and let it cool.
Press the mixture onto both sides of the butterflied shrimp, then sear them in olive oil.
Cook for one minute, then add the starfruit and ginger.
Add the rum, swirl it around in the pan for a few seconds, and serve.

Variations

For a spicier version, add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the citrus crust mixture.
Substitute the shrimp with scallops or fish fillets for a different twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to butterfly the shrimp carefully so that they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors of the citrus crust.

- Be careful when adding the rum to the hot pan, as it may flame up. Use caution and keep a lid nearby to smother any flames if necessary.

- Serve the shrimp and starfruit immediately after cooking to ensure they are hot and fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Citrus-crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to round out the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the shrimp in a hot pan ensures a crispy crust and perfectly cooked shrimp. Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If starfruit is not available, you can substitute with sliced mango or pineapple for a similar tropical flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the citrus crust mixture and marinate the shrimp ahead of time, then cook them just before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Citrus-crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon or lime for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a splash of citrus juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

6g per serving

Proteins

15g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C from the citrus fruits and starfruit, as well as iron and omega-3 fatty acids from the shrimp.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and healthy fats, while also providing a dose of vitamin C and iron. It is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy and delicious option for a special meal.

Summary

This Citrus-crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum recipe is a delicious and unique dish that combines the flavors of citrus, rum, and seafood in a tropical-inspired dish. With a crispy crust and tender shrimp, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Citrus-crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Marie, who lived in a beautiful coastal town. We were sitting on her porch, sipping on some iced tea, when she suddenly got up and disappeared into her kitchen.

A few minutes later, she emerged with a platter of the most delectable-looking shrimp I had ever seen. The shrimp were coated in a golden crust of citrus and ginger, and were garnished with thin slices of starfruit. The aroma that wafted from the platter was simply intoxicating.

I couldn't help but ask Marie for the recipe, and she chuckled and said, "Oh, this old thing? It's just something I whipped up one day. But I'd be happy to share it with you."

And so, she handed me a tattered piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions. I studied the recipe carefully, taking note of the precise measurements and techniques. I could tell that this dish was something special, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.

When I returned home, I immediately set to work in my own kitchen. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - fresh shrimp, citrus fruits, ginger, starfruit, and of course, rum. As I peeled and deveined the shrimp, I could already feel the anticipation building.

I prepared the citrus and ginger crust, combining zesty lemon and lime zest with pungent freshly grated ginger. The aroma that filled my kitchen was heavenly, and I knew that this dish was going to be something truly extraordinary.

I coated the shrimp in the citrus and ginger mixture, making sure to press it firmly onto each piece. I then heated a skillet and cooked the shrimp until they were golden brown and crispy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside.

As the shrimp cooked, I sliced the starfruit into delicate rounds, adding a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish. I then deglazed the skillet with a splash of rum, creating a rich and flavorful sauce to drizzle over the shrimp.

Finally, I plated the shrimp, garnishing them with the starfruit slices and a sprig of fresh cilantro. The dish looked absolutely stunning, a true work of art.

I couldn't wait to taste it. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a tropical paradise. The flavors of the citrus, ginger, starfruit, and rum melded together perfectly, creating a symphony of taste sensations in my mouth. It was unlike anything I had ever tried before, and I was hooked.

From that day on, Citrus-crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and whenever I wanted to treat myself to something special.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the delicious secret that Marie had shared with me. And now, as I sit here writing this, I can't help but smile at the memories of that warm summer day and the incredible dish that it inspired.

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and discovering new recipes and techniques is something that brings me immense joy. I am grateful for the friends and family who have shared their recipes with me over the years, helping me to expand my culinary horizons and create dishes that bring people together.

As I finish writing this, I can't help but think that maybe one day, someone will read this story and be inspired to try their hand at making Citrus-crusted Shrimp with Ginger, Starfruit and Rum. And if they do, I hope that they experience the same sense of amazement and delight that I did when I first saw the recipe. Cooking is a truly magical art, and it has the power to bring people together, one delicious dish at a time.