Mango Chipotle Glazed Shrimp Burrito Bowl

Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and healthy? Look no further! Our Mango Chipotle Glazed Shrimp Burrito Bowl is a delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds to paradise. This recipe combines succulent, chipotle-glazed shrimp with a colorful array of fresh ingredients, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a vibrant lunch, or even a fun meal prep option. Get ready to experience a burrito bowl like no other!

What You’ll Need

• 200 g (1 cup) Long-Grain White Rice: We’re using long-grain white rice as the base of our bowl. Its fluffy texture perfectly complements the vibrant flavors. Be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, resulting in a lighter, more separate grain.
• 480 ml (2 cups) Water: Essential for cooking the rice to a perfect, fluffy consistency. Using the correct water-to-rice ratio is key for optimal results.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Olive Oil: Used for searing the shrimp, olive oil provides a healthy fat and helps create a beautiful caramelized crust. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor.
• 300 g (10 oz) Raw Shrimp, Peeled and Deveined: The star of the show! We’re using raw shrimp, peeled and deveined for convenience. Ensure the shrimp is thoroughly dried before seasoning for optimal searing.
• 1 tsp (5 g) Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth of flavor to the shrimp, complementing the chipotle spice.
• 1 tsp (5 g) Ground Cumin: A warm, earthy spice that enhances the overall flavor profile of the shrimp marinade.
• ½ tsp (2 g) Chipotle Powder: This is where the heat comes in! Chipotle powder provides a smoky, slightly sweet chili flavor. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Lime Juice (Fresh): Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright, citrusy tang to both the glaze and the crema.
• ½ cup (120 ml) Mango Purée (Fresh or Frozen): The sweetness of mango is the perfect counterpoint to the chipotle spice. You can use fresh mango purée or frozen mango chunks, thawed and blended.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and helps the glaze thicken.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Soy Sauce (Halal Certified): Provides umami and depth of flavor to the glaze. Using a halal-certified soy sauce ensures it meets specific dietary requirements.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and helps balance the sweetness of the mango and honey.
• 1 Avocado, Diced: Creamy avocado adds a luxurious texture and healthy fats to the bowl.
• ½ cup (120 ml) Black Beans, Rinsed and Drained: A hearty and protein-rich addition to the bowl.
• ½ cup (75 g) Corn Kernels (Fresh or Frozen): Adds a pop of sweetness and color.
• ¼ cup (30 g) Shredded Red Cabbage: Provides a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
• ¼ cup (30 g) Chopped Fresh Cilantro, plus extra for garnish: A fresh, herbaceous element that brightens up the entire bowl.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) Plain Yogurt (or Plant‑Based Yogurt) for Crema: Creates a cool and creamy chipotle lime crema. You can use dairy or plant-based yogurt depending on your preference.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Lime Zest: Adds an extra burst of lime flavor to the crema.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Minced Chipotle in Adobo (optional): For those who like extra heat and smoky flavor, minced chipotle in adobo is a fantastic addition to the crema.
• 1 tbsp (15 g) Toasted Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Lime Wedges for Serving: For an extra squeeze of freshness.

Putting It All Together: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice: Place the long-grain white rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier, less sticky rice.
2. Cook the Rice: Combine the rinsed rice and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to ensure even cooking. After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the rice. Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork.
3. Prepare the Mango-Chipotle Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together the mango purée, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chipotle powder. The chipotle powder is the key to the smoky heat, so adjust the amount to your preference. Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for about 5-6 minutes, or until it reduces and thickens slightly. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon. Keep the glaze warm while you prepare the shrimp.
4. Glaze and Season the Shrimp: Pat the raw shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly and develop a nice color. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and ½ tablespoon of the warm mango-chipotle glaze. Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices and glaze.
5. Sear the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the glazed shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and have a slightly caramelized edge. Basting the shrimp with any remaining glaze during the last minute of cooking will enhance the flavor and create a beautiful sheen. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and drizzle with a little extra glaze.
6. Make the Chipotle-Lime Crema: In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt (or plant-based yogurt), lime zest, ½ tablespoon of lime juice, minced chipotle in adobo (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The chipotle in adobo adds a smoky depth, but can be omitted for a milder crema.
7. Assemble the Burrito Bowls: Start with a generous scoop of the cooked rice as the base of each bowl. Arrange the seared shrimp, black beans, corn kernels, diced avocado, shredded red cabbage, and chopped cilantro in separate sections around the rice. This creates a visually appealing and customizable bowl.
8. Finish and Garnish: Drizzle the remaining mango-chipotle glaze over the shrimp. Add a thin ribbon of the chipotle-lime crema across the top of the bowl. Sprinkle with toasted pepitas for a delightful crunch and a handful of fresh cilantro leaves for garnish. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

The Magic of Mango and Chipotle

The combination of sweet mango and smoky chipotle peppers is a culinary match made in heaven. The sweetness of the mango balances the heat of the chipotle, creating a complex and addictive flavor profile. This glaze isn’t just about taste; the mango’s natural enzymes also help to tenderize the shrimp, resulting in a more succulent bite. Chipotle peppers, traditionally made from smoked jalapeños, bring a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish beyond a simple sweet and spicy glaze.

Customizing Your Bowl: Spice Level & Add-Ins

Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice level to your liking! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chipotle powder or omit the minced chipotle in adobo. For those who like it hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze or use a spicier variety of chipotle pepper. Beyond the core ingredients, feel free to add other toppings like pickled onions, crumbled cotija cheese (if not dairy-free), or a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce. Quinoa can be substituted for rice for a protein boost.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Overcooked shrimp are rubbery and tough. The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is to sear them quickly over high heat. Patting them dry before searing is crucial, as it allows them to brown properly. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and steam the shrimp instead of searing them. Look for shrimp that are opaque and pink all the way through – that’s how you know they’re done.

Why This Burrito Bowl Works

This Mango Chipotle Glazed Shrimp Burrito Bowl isn’t just delicious; it’s a complete and balanced meal. The rice provides carbohydrates for energy, the shrimp offers lean protein, and the black beans, corn, avocado, and cabbage contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The vibrant flavors and textures make it a satisfying and healthy option for lunch or dinner. The bowl format also allows for easy customization, making it a great choice for accommodating different dietary preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen mango?

Yes, you can use frozen mango purée. Just make sure to thaw it completely before using it in the glaze.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use a soy sauce that is certified gluten-free.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the mango-chipotle glaze can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using.

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