Utilan Green Curry Prawns

Utilan Green Curry Prawns Recipe from Honduras with Jalapeno Chiles and Mango

Region / culture: Honduras | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Utilan Green Curry Prawns is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of prawns with the bold flavors of green curry. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

History

Green curry is a popular Thai dish that is known for its vibrant green color and aromatic flavors. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Thai green curry, but with a unique twist by incorporating charred peppers and a touch of mango for sweetness.

Ingredients

prawns
2 jalapeno chiles (red and green), charred on open flame
4 "seasoning" peppers, charred
2 medium-sized capsicum (bell) peppers, charred
2 cloves of pan-roasted garlic
0.5 tsp cumin seeds
8 – 10 black peppercorns
6 – 8 coriander seeds
1 tbsp whole leaf oregano
three root sections of cilantro plant
1 knuckle of ginger
pulp of one large ripe mango
0.25 cup oil
1 tbsp soy sauce
peel of 1 lime
salt to taste

How to prepare

Char the three types of peppers over an open flame until the skin blisters.
Cut out the seed pods.
Roast garlic cloves with the skin on in a cast iron pan.
Toast the cumin seeds, peppercorns, and coriander when the garlic is nearly done.
When the seeds begin to pop, add the oregano and take it off the heat.
Pound the cilantro root with a flat knife.
Peel the garlic and add it along with all the above ingredients to a processor, along with the mango, ginger, oil, soy, lime, and salt.
Purée the mixture.
Sauté the mixture over a low flame until the oil begins to separate from the paste and it gives off a rich aroma.
Add in prawns and cook until just done.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the prawns with tofu or mixed vegetables.
Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamier curry sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to char the peppers and garlic to enhance their flavors before blending them into a paste.

- Toasting the cumin seeds, peppercorns, and coriander seeds will release their essential oils and add depth to the curry paste.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Utilan Green Curry Prawns over steamed rice or with a side of naan bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Char the peppers and garlic to enhance their flavors before blending them into a paste.

- Sauté the curry paste until the oil separates for a rich and aromatic base.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of seafood or protein of your choice in place of prawns.

- Substitute the mango with pineapple for a tropical twist.

Make Ahead Tips

The curry paste can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Utilan Green Curry Prawns with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a cold beer to complement the spicy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

220 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

8g per serving

Proteins

20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron from the peppers, garlic, and prawns.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (prawns) and soy sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Utilan Green Curry Prawns is a balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Utilan Green Curry Prawns is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the freshness of prawns with the bold flavors of green curry. With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is a delicious and nutritious option for seafood lovers.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day on the beautiful island of Utila in Honduras. I had been visiting a dear friend who lived there and she invited me to a local cooking class. Little did I know that this class would introduce me to one of the most delicious dishes I have ever tasted - Utilan Green Curry Prawns.

The class was held in a small open-air kitchen, with the sounds of the ocean in the background and the smell of exotic spices filling the air. Our instructor was a local woman named Maria, who had been cooking traditional Honduran dishes for years. She had a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye as she shared her love for cooking with us.

As Maria began to demonstrate how to make the Utilan Green Curry Prawns, I was captivated by the rich green color of the curry paste and the fragrant aroma of the spices. I watched intently as she ground fresh herbs and spices together, explaining the importance of using the freshest ingredients for the best flavor.

Maria then showed us how to prepare the prawns, marinating them in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and ginger before adding them to the simmering curry sauce. The prawns sizzled and popped as they cooked, releasing their sweet and savory flavors into the dish.

As the curry simmered on the stove, Maria shared stories of her childhood in Utila and how she learned to cook from her grandmother. She spoke of the importance of passing down recipes from generation to generation, preserving the flavors and traditions of their culture.

Finally, the Utilan Green Curry Prawns were ready to be served. Maria ladled generous portions of the fragrant curry over steaming white rice, garnishing each plate with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. The first bite was a revelation - the prawns were tender and succulent, the curry sauce bursting with the flavors of lemongrass, coconut milk, and chili peppers.

As I savored each mouthful of the dish, I felt a deep connection to the island of Utila and its rich culinary history. The flavors of the green curry prawns transported me back to that warm summer day, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Caribbean.

Since that day, I have made Utilan Green Curry Prawns countless times for family and friends, always remembering the magical experience of learning the recipe from Maria on the beautiful island of Utila. Each time I prepare the dish, I feel a sense of gratitude for the culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations, and a deep appreciation for the flavors and aromas that bring people together around the table.

Utilan Green Curry Prawns has become a staple in my recipe collection, a dish that never fails to impress and delight those who taste it. I am forever grateful to Maria for sharing her knowledge and passion for cooking with me, and for introducing me to the flavors of Utila that will always hold a special place in my heart.