Ingredients
- Ripe Mangoes: (3 large, about 2 pounds) – The star of the show! Choose ripe, fragrant mangoes for the best sweetness and flavor. Look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a sweet aroma at the stem end.
- Full-Fat Coconut Milk: (1 can, 13.5 oz) – Provides richness, creaminess, and a distinct tropical flavor. Full-fat coconut milk is recommended for a richer texture, but light coconut milk can be used for a slightly lighter version.
- Fresh Lime Juice: (2-3 tablespoons) – Adds a crucial tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the mango and coconut, balancing the flavors and adding a refreshing zing. Freshly squeezed lime juice is always preferred for its brighter flavor.
- Fresh Ginger: (1-inch piece) – A small piece of fresh ginger adds a subtle warmth and spice that complements the tropical fruits beautifully. It provides a delightful complexity without being overpowering.
- Honey or Agave Nectar (Optional): (1-2 tablespoons) – Depending on the sweetness of your mangoes and your personal preference, you might want to add a touch of sweetener. Honey or agave nectar works well, but maple syrup or even a pinch of sugar can also be used.
- Pinch of Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and balances the sweetness. Just a small pinch is enough to make a difference.
- Optional Garnishes: (Fresh mint, toasted coconut flakes, a swirl of coconut cream, lime zest, chili flakes) – These are for presentation and an extra layer of flavor and texture. Choose your favorites to elevate the soup shots.
- Water (Optional): (1/4 cup to 1/2 cup) – If you prefer a thinner consistency for your soup shots, you can add a little water to reach your desired texture. Add gradually to avoid making it too watery.
Instructions
- Prepare the Mangoes: Begin by peeling the mangoes. The easiest way to do this is to stand the mango upright and use a sharp knife to slice down along each side of the flat, oblong seed. You will get two “cheeks” of mango flesh. Then, score the flesh of each cheek in a grid pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin. Invert the mango cheek and push the skin outwards to pop the cubes of mango flesh. Use a knife to separate the cubes from the skin. Repeat for the remaining mangoes. Discard the seeds and skin.
- Combine Ingredients in a Blender: Place the cubed mango flesh into a high-speed blender. Add the full-fat coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and the piece of fresh ginger (no need to peel if it’s young and tender, otherwise peel it). If you are using a sweetener, add honey or agave nectar at this stage. Add a pinch of salt.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend all the ingredients on high speed until you achieve a completely smooth and creamy consistency. Blend for at least a minute or two to ensure there are no lumps and the ginger is fully incorporated. If the mixture is too thick for your liking, add water, one tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it will thicken slightly as it chills.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup mixture. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking. If it needs more sweetness, add a little more honey or agave. If it needs more tang, add a squeeze more lime juice. If you want a stronger ginger flavor, you can add a little more grated ginger. Blend again briefly to incorporate any adjustments.
- Chill Thoroughly: Pour the blended soup into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling is crucial to allow the flavors to meld together and for the soup to reach the perfect chilled temperature and consistency.
- Prepare Garnishes (Optional): While the soup is chilling, prepare any garnishes you plan to use. You can toast coconut flakes in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Chop fresh mint leaves. Zest a lime.
- Serve Chilled: Once the soup is thoroughly chilled, give it a quick stir. If it has become too thick during chilling, you can add a tablespoon or two of coconut milk or water to loosen it slightly. Pour the soup into shot glasses, small glasses, or appetizer spoons.
- Garnish and Serve Immediately: Garnish each soup shot with your chosen toppings just before serving. Some popular options include fresh mint leaves, toasted coconut flakes, a swirl of coconut cream or yogurt, a sprinkle of lime zest, or a tiny pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spice. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing burst of tropical flavors!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g