The delectable Bacon Wrapped Shrimp pairs wonderfully with "The Prince and the Dressmaker" by Jen Wang, a tale of identity and self-expression that mirrors the shrimp's complex flavors. This pairing is perfect when enjoyed alongside the refreshing Grapefruit Paloma cocktail, whose vibrant citrus notes elevate the savory and sweet elements of the dish. Together, they create a memorable combination that stimulates the taste buds and the imagination. This trio offers an engaging and delightful experience, perfect for a lively book club discussion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Wrap the Shrimp: Wrap each shrimp with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary. Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Shrimp: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. For extra crispy bacon, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
The Prince and the Dressmaker
A heartwarming story about Prince Sebastian whose secret life as a daring fashion icon is at odds with his royal responsibilities, and Frances, the talented designer who helps him fulfill his dream.
A fairy tale for any age, Jen Wang's The Prince and the Dressmaker will steal your heart. Winner of the Eisner Award for Best Publication for Teens Winner of the Harvey Award for Best Children or Young Adult Book Paris, at the dawn of the modern age: Prince Sebastian is looking for a bride—or rather, his parents are looking for one for him. Sebastian is too busy hiding his secret life from everyone. At night he puts on daring dresses and takes Paris by storm as the fabulous Lady Crystallia—the hottest fashion icon in the world capital of fashion! Sebastian’s secret weapon (and best friend) is the brilliant dressmaker Frances—one of only two people who know the truth: sometimes this boy wears dresses. But Frances dreams of greatness, and being someone’s secret weapon means being a secret. Forever. How long can Frances defer her dreams to protect a friend? Jen Wang weaves an exuberantly romantic tale of identity, young love, art, and family.
Discussion Questions
- How do Frances and Sebastian help each other grow throughout the story?
- Discuss the themes of identity and self-expression within the book.
- How does Jen Wang use art and fashion to convey deeper messages?
- What role does friendship play in the development of the main characters?
- How does the story challenge traditional gender roles and expectations?
- In what ways do the characters' secrets impact their relationships with others?
- Discuss the portrayal of family expectations in "The Prince and the Dressmaker."
- What are your thoughts on the book's ending? Did it satisfy you?
- How does Wang's artwork contribute to the narrative?
- Would you recommend this book to someone who is not typically a graphic novel reader? Why or why not?
Authors:
Jen Wang
ISBN: 9781626723634
Publisher: First Second
Published Date: 2018-02-13
ISBN: 9781626723634
Publisher: First Second
Published Date: 2018-02-13
Grapefruit Paloma
A refreshing cocktail that combines the tartness of grapefruit with the smoothness of tequila, perfect to complement the savory and sweet flavors of the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Grapefruit soda
- Salt for rimming
- Grapefruit slice for garnish
Instructions
- Rim the glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it into a small plate of salt.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- In a shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup, and shake well.
- Strain into the prepared glass over ice.
- Top with grapefruit soda and garnish with a grapefruit slice.