Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry: A Tropical-Inspired Delight

Introduction: Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry

If you’re in the mood for a vibrant and delicious dish, Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry is your answer. This delightful recipe features succulent shrimp, sweet mangoes, crunchy cashews, and a blend of colorful vegetables. All of these are enveloped in a savory-sweet sauce, bringing an exotic flavor to your plate. In just about 30 minutes, you can prepare a meal that will captivate your taste buds with a burst of tropical freshness.

In this article, we will explore not just how to prepare this wonderful dish, but also its origins, variations, and frequently asked questions to help you elevate your cooking experience.

---

What is Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry?

Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that blends savory and sweet flavors. The shrimp, known for its delicate sweetness, pairs perfectly with the tropical, juicy mango. Cashews add a satisfying crunch to the dish, while the vegetables bring a crisp-tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.

The dish is tossed in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and sesame oil. The sauce is thickened with cornstarch, which gives it a smooth, rich consistency that coats all the ingredients perfectly. This stir-fry is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, thanks to its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients.

---

Origin of Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry

The origins of stir-fry dishes can be traced back to China, where they became a staple method of cooking, involving quickly cooking ingredients in a small amount of oil over high heat. This method of cooking is efficient and preserves the flavors and textures of the ingredients, making stir-frying an ideal way to create a balanced dish with proteins, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce.

While stir-frying has its roots in China, the combination of shrimp and mango in this dish is more representative of tropical cuisines, particularly those in Southeast Asia. The sweet and savory flavors found in this dish are reminiscent of Thai, Filipino, and Malaysian cuisines, where fresh seafood and tropical fruits are commonly used in cooking.

---

Ingredients with Quantity for Shrimp Mango Stir-Fry

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 ripe but firm mango, peeled, pitted & cut into 1″ cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• ¾ cup roasted, unsalted cashews
• 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: sliced green onions, cilantro sprigs, red pepper flakes

For the Sauce:

• 3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp fish sauce (optional but recommended)
• 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp lime juice (about ½ lime)
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 Tbsp water

---

Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of soy sauce and set aside. This will allow the shrimp to absorb the flavors and remain tender during cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the following ingredients for the sauce:

• 3 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp fish sauce (optional but recommended)
• 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 Tbsp water (this will help thicken the sauce)

Set the sauce aside for later use.

Step 3: Toast the Cashews

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cashews and toast them, stirring constantly, for about 1–2 minutes or until lightly golden. Once toasted, transfer the cashews to a plate and set them aside. Keep the skillet hot for the next step.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer them to the plate with the cashews.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced yellow onion, bell pepper, garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Stir-fry these ingredients for about 2–3 minutes, until the vegetables are crisp-tender and aromatic.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring it to a gentle boil and cook for about 1 minute, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Return the shrimp and cashews to the skillet, gently tossing them to coat in the sauce.

Step 7: Add Mango

Fold in the mango cubes and heat everything through for 30 seconds. Be careful not to overcook the mango, as it can become mushy. The goal is to warm the mango without compromising its fresh texture.

Step 8: Plate and Garnish

Transfer the finished stir-fry to a serving platter or individual bowls. If desired, garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro sprigs, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra touch of color and flavor.

---

Tips & Variations

• Heat level: To add more heat, you can include ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes or a few sliced fresh chilies along with the aromatics in step 5.
• Veggie swap: You can substitute the bell pepper with broccoli florets, snap peas, or baby corn for a different texture and flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Vegan version: Replace the shrimp with cubed tofu or tempeh, and omit the fish sauce for a vegan-friendly version of the dish.

---

FAQs About Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for Tropical Shrimp Stir-Fry?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just ensure that you thaw them properly before cooking. Pat the shrimp dry to remove any excess moisture.

2. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to stir it well before using it.

3. What can I serve with Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

4. Can I use other fruits instead of mango?

Yes, you can use other tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya if you prefer. These fruits will give the dish a slightly different flavor but will still complement the savory sauce.

5. How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

The shrimp should turn pink and opaque in color when fully cooked. They will curl up slightly as they cook. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

---

Conclusion

Cashew Shrimp and Mango Stir-Fry is a dish that brings together the best of savory, sweet, and crunchy flavors in one vibrant, tropical meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its bold, fresh ingredients and simple preparation. By following the step-by-step instructions and experimenting with the variations, you’ll be able to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy the delightful combination of shrimp, mango, and cashews in every bite. Happy cooking!

Print