1. Prepare Your Blender: Ensure your blender is clean and ready to go. A high-speed blender works best for achieving a super smooth and creamy consistency, but a standard blender will also do the job.

2. Add Frozen Mango: Carefully place the 1 cup of frozen mango chunks into your blender. Using frozen fruit is essential for the thick, cold texture of a smoothie bowl.

3. Pour in Coconut Milk: Add the 1/2 cup of full-fat coconut milk to the blender. This will provide the rich, tropical flavor and a significant portion of the liquid needed for blending.

4. Introduce Almond Milk and Banana: Next, pour in the 1/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk. Add the 1/2 banana, either fresh or frozen. If using fresh, it will make the blend a little thinner, which is fine if you prefer a slightly less thick bowl.

5. Add Shredded Coconut: Sprinkle in the 1 tablespoon of shredded unsweetened coconut. This boosts the coconut flavor throughout the bowl.

6. Blend Until Smooth and Thick: Secure the lid on your blender and start blending on a low speed, gradually increasing to high. Use a tamper if your blender has one, or stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula as needed to ensure all ingredients are incorporated. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth, thick, and creamy, with no visible chunks of fruit. The consistency should be thick enough to eat with a spoon, similar to soft-serve ice cream.

7. Pour and Garnish: Once blended to perfection, spoon the smoothie mixture into a bowl. Arrange your desired optional toppings artistically over the top. A sprinkle of extra shredded coconut, some fresh mango slices, a handful of berries, or a sprinkle of granola makes it visually appealing and adds texture.

8. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Tropical Mango Coconut Smoothie Bowl right away while it’s cold and thick.