Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo! Crispy mashed plantains are paired with garlicky, succulent shrimp for a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, shrimp, and plantains creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with sautéed vegetables or rice and beans for a complete meal.
• Nutrition-Packed: This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients like plantains and shrimp.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; everyone will love the unique flavors!

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mortar and pestle (or pilón)
• Skillet
• Pot for boiling
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mortar and pestle: Ideal for mashing plantains smoothly while infusing them with garlic flavor.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing shrimp quickly to maintain their tenderness.
• Pot for boiling: Ensures even cooking of plantains until they’re perfectly tender.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for safely preparing your ingredients.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Mofongo

• 4 green or slightly yellow plantains
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1/4 cup beef cracklings (chicharrón), optional
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Shrimp

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: paprika or fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges

Serving Suggestions

• Sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Step 1: Prepare Plantains

1. Peel the plantains and cut them into 1–2 inch pieces.
2. Boil the pieces in salted water until tender (about 10–15 minutes) or fry them for more flavor.

Step 2: Mash Mofongo

1. In a mortar and pestle (or pilón), mash the cooked plantains with minced garlic, olive oil, and optional chicharrón until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook Garlic Shrimp

1. Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque (about 3–4 minutes per side).

Step 4: Assemble Dish

1. Mold the mofongo into bowls or plates using your hands or a mold.
2. Top each serving with the garlic shrimp mixture.
3. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
2. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture!

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Serving Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is all about enhancing its bold flavors and creating a memorable dining experience. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, each adding its own twist to the classic recipe.

With Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mofongo for a zesty kick that brightens up the flavors.

Garnished with Fresh Cilantro

• Top your mofongo with chopped cilantro for an added layer of freshness and color.

Accompanied by Sautéed Vegetables

• Serve alongside sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and onions to complement the richness of the dish.

Pair with Puerto Rican Rice and Beans

• A traditional pairing that adds heartiness and balances the meal with protein and fiber.

In a Bowl Presentation

• Mold the mofongo into bowls, creating a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.

With Extra Pan Juices

• Drizzle any leftover pan juices from the garlic shrimp on top to enhance flavor and moisture.

How to Perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Perfecting Garlic Shrimp Mofongo involves attention to detail and a few handy tips to elevate your dish. Follow these suggestions for a fantastic result every time.

• Choose Ripe Plantains: Aim for green or slightly yellow plantains; they provide the right texture and sweetness when cooked properly.
• Use a Mortar and Pestle: For an authentic texture, mash your plantains using a mortar and pestle rather than a mixer.
• Don’t Skip the Garlic: Use fresh minced garlic both in the mofongo and shrimp for maximum flavor infusion.
• Season Generously: Ensure you season both the plantains and shrimp adequately with salt and pepper for balanced taste.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding toppings like avocado or spicy sauce to customize your dish further.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo right after assembling it for optimal texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Complementing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Sautéed Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables adds color, nutrition, and crunch alongside your mofongo.
2. Puerto Rican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a perfect base that balances the rich flavors of garlic shrimp.
3. Black Beans: Protein-packed black beans served warm provide a hearty contrast to the mofongo.
4. Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad of diced avocado, tomatoes, and onions adds creaminess and freshness.
5. Fried Yucca: Crispy fried yucca can add texture while offering its own unique flavor profile to the meal.
6. Mango Salsa: A sweet mango salsa brings brightness that pairs beautifully with savory shrimp and plantains.
7. Coconut Rice: Rich coconut rice introduces a hint of sweetness that complements the savory elements of this dish.
8. Tostones (Fried Green Plantains): Double-fried plantains provide an extra crispy texture that contrasts nicely with soft mofongo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Shrimp Mofongo can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Overripe Plantains: Overripe plantains can lead to a mushy texture. Choose green or slightly yellow plantains for the best flavor and consistency.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp adequately can make the dish bland. Ensure you season both the shrimp and the plantains well with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
• Improperly Cooking Shrimp: Overcooking shrimp can make them tough. Cook until they are pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3–4 minutes per side.
• Skipping the Garlic: Garlic is a key ingredient in this dish. Don’t skimp on it; use fresh garlic for the best taste and aroma.
• Not Mashing Enough: Failing to mash the plantains thoroughly can result in a lumpy mofongo. Aim for a smooth consistency by mashing well with olive oil and garlic.
• Forgetting to Garnish: A simple garnish like fresh cilantro or lime can elevate the dish’s presentation. Always add a touch of greenery before serving.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

• Place cooled mofongo in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

What is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains combined with garlic and served with sautéed shrimp. It’s known for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute shrimp with tofu or vegetables while keeping the mofongo base intact. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth as well.

How spicy is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

The spiciness of this dish depends on your seasoning choices. You can add chili flakes or omit them altogether based on your preference.

What sides go well with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

This dish pairs wonderfully with sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans, providing a balanced meal that complements its flavors.

How do I know when my plantains are ripe?

Look for plantains that are green or slightly yellow; they should feel firm but not too hard. Avoid those that are brown or black as they may be overly ripe.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is not just a meal; it’s an experience full of flavor and comfort. This versatile dish allows room for customization, whether you prefer different proteins or additional spices. Give it a try, and enjoy this delicious taste of Puerto Rico!