Tom Yum Soup with Grilled Shrimp Skewers and Barbecued Black Tea Seasonings

Ingredients:

• 6g barbecued black tea seasonings
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup fish sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil
• 1/4 cup sliced red chili peppers (or Thai bird's eye chilies)
• 1 cup sliced straw mushrooms or button mushrooms
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
• Fresh cilantro sprigs (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Shrimp Skewers:

• Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, and 3g of the barbecued black tea seasonings. Set aside for 10-15 minutes to marinate.
• Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning).
• Grill the Shrimp: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Set aside.

Prepare the Tom Yum Soup:

• Heat Broth: In a large pot, combine the chicken or vegetable broth, coconut milk, fish sauce, palm sugar, and remaining 3g of barbecued black tea seasonings. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
• Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped cilantro, Thai basil, sliced chili peppers, and mushrooms. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more lime juice, fish sauce, or sugar if needed.

Serve:

• Assemble the Dish: Ladle the hot Tom Yum soup into bowls. Arrange the grilled shrimp skewers alongside the soup. Garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips for Success:

• Seasoning: The barbecued black tea seasonings add a unique, smoky flavor that complements both the shrimp and the spicy, tangy Tom Yum soup. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
• Shrimp Skewers: Marinating the shrimp briefly enhances their flavor. Grilling the shrimp gives them a slightly charred, smoky taste that pairs well with the aromatic soup.
• Tom Yum Soup: This classic Thai soup is known for its balance of spicy, sour, and sweet flavors. Adjust the chili peppers and lime juice to suit your taste preferences.
• Garnish: Fresh cilantro and lime wedges add a bright, aromatic touch, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor of the dish.

Enjoy Your Tom Yum Soup with Grilled Shrimp Skewers!

• This dish combines the rich, aromatic flavors of Tom Yum soup with the tender, smoky grilled shrimp skewers, enhanced by the unique aroma of barbecued black tea seasonings. It’s a perfect choice for a light yet flavorful meal, ideal for a special dinner or a cozy evening at home.