Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Shrimp cocktail is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress, but if you’re looking to spice things up, this Mango Scotchy Bonnet Shrimp Cocktail is the way to go. This dish combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the fiery heat of Scotch bonnet peppers, creating a vibrant and flavorful twist on the traditional shrimp cocktail. The result is a refreshing yet spicy appetizer that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
This Mango Scotch Bonnet Shrimp Cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or even as a light meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty mango sauce, and the kick of Scotch bonnet peppers makes this dish a standout. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
For the Mango Scotch Bonnet Sauce:
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
• In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
• Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Alternatively, you can use a skillet.
• Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Mango Scotch Bonnet Sauce:
• In a blender or food processor, combine the diced mango, Scotch bonnet pepper, lime juice, honey, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper.
• Blend until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
3. Assemble the Shrimp Cocktail:
• Arrange the grilled shrimp on a serving platter or individual cocktail glasses.
• Drizzle the mango Scotch bonnet sauce over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges.
4. Serve:
• Serve the Mango Scotch Bonnet Shrimp Cocktail immediately, with extra sauce on the side for dipping if desired.
Tips for Success:
• Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper to your preferred spice level. Remember, Scotch bonnet peppers are very hot, so use sparingly if you’re sensitive to heat.
• For added flavor, let the shrimp marinate in the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper for 10-15 minutes before grilling.
• If you prefer a milder version, you can substitute the Scotch bonnet pepper with a milder chili like jalapeño.
The Mango Scotchy Bonnet Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing and spicy twist on a classic appetizer, bringing together the sweet and tangy flavors of mango with the heat of Scotch bonnet peppers. This dish is perfect for those who love bold flavors and a bit of heat. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it disappear! So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy this tropical and fiery shrimp cocktail that’s sure to impress.
