Zanzibari Spiced Seafood Birdsnest

Ingredients

In this Zanzibari adaptation of the Seafood Birdsnest, we incorporate the distinct flavors of Zanzibari cuisine. The original Chinese dish is transformed by using Zanzibari spices such as cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric to infuse the seafood with a rich and aromatic taste. Additionally, we incorporate local Zanzibari vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavors and create a unique fusion experience. We alse have the original recipe for Seafood Birdsnest, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined 200g (7oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 200g (7oz) squid, cleaned and sliced into rings 200g (7oz) squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 200g (7oz) fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces 200g (7oz) fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup (200g) carrots, julienned 1 cup (200g) carrots, julienned
• 1 cup (200g) bell peppers, thinly sliced 1 cup (200g) bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (200g) cabbage, shredded 1 cup (200g) cabbage, shredded
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Zanzibari curry powder 1 tablespoon Zanzibari curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, squid, and fish fillets. Season with salt, pepper, Zanzibari curry powder, turmeric, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the marinated seafood to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
4. 4.
   Push the seafood to one side of the wok and add the julienned carrots, bell peppers, and shredded cabbage. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
5. 5.
   Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for an additional minute to combine all the flavors.
6. 6.
   Remove from heat and transfer the seafood and vegetables to a serving plate.
7. 7.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve the Zanzibari Spiced Seafood Birdsnest hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to devein the shrimp properly to remove any grit or sand.
• Squid — Clean the squid thoroughly, removing the skin and internal organs before slicing it into rings.
• Fish fillets — Choose firm white fish fillets such as cod or snapper for the best results.
• Zanzibari curry powder — If you can't find Zanzibari curry powder, you can make your own by combining ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a finely chopped chili pepper to the marinade.
• Serve the Spiced Seafood Birdsnest with a side of coconut rice to complement the flavors.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the seafood with tofu or tempeh.
• Experiment with different vegetables such as bok choy or bean sprouts for added variety.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of Zanzibari spices used.

Serving advice

Serve the Zanzibari Spiced Seafood Birdsnest as a main course accompanied by steamed rice or coconut rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, shape the birdsnest using a mold or by carefully arranging the shredded vegetables in a circular pattern on the plate. Place the cooked seafood in the center of the birdsnest for an eye-catching display.