Curried Shrimp and Bananas on Rice

Caribbean Curried Shrimp and Banana Rice Recipe

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Curried Shrimp and Bananas on Rice is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of bananas with the savory flavors of curry and shrimp. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its exotic taste and beautiful presentation.

History

This recipe has its origins in Caribbean cuisine, where the combination of shrimp and bananas is a popular and traditional dish. The addition of curry powder adds a spicy kick to the dish, making it a truly unique and delicious meal.

Ingredients

1 clove garlic, split
0.33 cup butter or margarine
0.33 cup flour
1 tbsp curry powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.13 tsp ground black pepper
0.13 tsp ground ginger
1.5 cup chicken broth
1.5 lb (680 g) peeled and deveined raw shrimp
2 tsp onion juice
6 small bananas, sliced
0.25 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp lemon juice
0.13 tsp paprika
3 cup hot cooked rice

How to prepare

In a large skillet, cook garlic slowly in butter over low heat until browned. Remove the garlic.
Stir in flour, curry, salt, pepper, and ginger.
Add chicken broth and cook over medium heat, stirring, until thickened and smooth.
Add shrimp and onion juice.
Cover and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are tender.
Stir in bananas, reserving a few banana slices for garnish, cream, and lemon juice.
Sprinkle the bananas with paprika.
Cover and cook over medium heat until the bananas are thoroughly heated.
Serve over hot rice and garnish with the reserved banana slices.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
Substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the garlic slowly in butter to avoid burning it and to infuse the butter with a rich garlic flavor.

- When adding the flour and spices to the skillet, be sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery if cooked for too long.

- Garnish the dish with fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque, as overcooking can make them tough.

- Simmer the sauce gently to allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

- Use green plantains instead of ripe bananas for a less sweet and more starchy dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead of time and reheat them gently before serving.

- Cook the rice in advance and reheat it just before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dish in individual bowls or on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the flavors of the curry and shrimp.

- Serve with a side of naan bread or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Curried Shrimp and Bananas on Rice contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, with the rice and bananas providing a healthy dose of complex carbs to fuel your body.

Fats

The margarine and heavy cream in this recipe add a rich and creamy texture to the dish, making it a satisfying and indulgent meal.

Proteins

The shrimp in this dish are a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, while shrimp are a good source of selenium and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (cream), so be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Curried Shrimp and Bananas on Rice is a delicious and exotic dish that combines the flavors of curry, shrimp, and bananas for a unique and flavorful meal. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a satisfying and nutritious option for any occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling in a beautiful array of colors, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. Margaret was always full of surprises and this particular day was no exception. As I entered her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most tantalizing aroma.

"What are you cooking, Margaret?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

She turned to me with a mischievous twinkle in her eye and said, "Curried Shrimp and Bananas on Rice, my dear. A recipe I picked up during my travels in India."

I had never heard of such a combination before, but I was intrigued. Margaret was known for her adventurous palate and I trusted her judgment when it came to food. She handed me a glass of wine and we chatted as she prepared the dish. The fragrant spices filled the air and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the dish was finally ready, we sat down at her dining table and took our first bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the sweetness of the bananas, the richness of the shrimp, and the perfect blend of spices. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before.

"Mmm, Margaret, this is absolutely delicious!" I exclaimed, savoring every bite.

She smiled at me, pleased with my reaction. "I knew you would love it, my dear. It's a recipe that holds a special place in my heart."

I begged her for the recipe and she gladly shared it with me. As I wrote down the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't wait to recreate this magical dish in my own kitchen. Little did I know, this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire for years to come.

Over the years, I made Curried Shrimp and Bananas on Rice countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I added a touch more curry powder here, a pinch of cinnamon there, until it was just perfect. It became a favorite among my family and friends, and I was always happy to share the recipe with anyone who asked.

One day, my granddaughter came to visit me. She had always been curious about my cooking and had recently taken an interest in learning how to make some of my signature dishes. I decided it was time to pass down the recipe for Curried Shrimp and Bananas on Rice to her.

As we stood in my kitchen, I walked her through the steps, explaining the importance of each ingredient and how they all came together to create a harmonious dish. She listened intently, taking notes and asking questions along the way. I could see the same spark of excitement in her eyes that I had felt when I first learned the recipe from Margaret.

After we finished cooking, we sat down at the table and enjoyed our meal together. My granddaughter's face lit up with delight as she took her first bite. She savored the flavors, just as I had done all those years ago.

"Grandma, this is amazing! Thank you for teaching me how to make this dish," she said, her eyes shining with gratitude.

I smiled at her, feeling a sense of pride and satisfaction. It warmed my heart to see her carrying on the tradition of cooking and sharing recipes that had been passed down through generations. I knew that she would continue to make Curried Shrimp and Bananas on Rice for her own family and friends, creating new memories and experiences along the way.

As I sat back in my chair, watching my granddaughter enjoy the dish that had brought me so much joy over the years, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing good food with loved ones. The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time would always be a happy one, a reminder of the bonds that food can create and the stories that it can tell.