As I strolled through the bustling streets of Puerto Rico, the air was thick with the tantalizing aroma of fried plantains and sizzling garlic. That’s when I fell in love with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo—a vibrant dish that captures the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine. This comfort food masterpiece boasts a fluffy base of mashed plantains, adorned with perfectly sautéed, garlicky shrimp. What I adore most about this recipe is its effortless preparation, making it perfect for both cozy weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. Plus, you can easily adapt it to a vegetarian delight with roasted veggies or sautéed mushrooms! Are you ready to bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen?
Why is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo a Must-Try?
Comforting Flavor: The rich taste of garlic-infused shrimp paired with fluffy plantains creates a soulful blend that warms the heart.
Versatile Dish: Easily switch out shrimp for chicken or firm fish, or make it vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies—perfect for any palate!
Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this unique twist on traditional comfort food.
Don’t forget to check out our delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp to pair perfectly with this dish!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Ingredients
• Dive into the essentials for a delicious Garlic Shrimp Mofongo!
For the Mofongo Base
- Plantains – Use green or slightly yellow for a traditional fluffy texture; avoid overripe for sweetness.
- Garlic – Freshly minced is essential for aromatic depth; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
- Olive Oil or Butter – These fats enhance flavor and texture while mashing and sautéing.
- Pork Cracklings (Chicharrón) – Optional, but they add an authentic crunch and savory notes to the dish.
For the Garlic Shrimp
- Shrimp – Medium-sized, peeled, and deveined; this is the main protein and cooks quickly for tenderness.
- Paprika (optional) – A sprinkle adds a touch of spice and color, elevating the dish.
For Garnish
- Fresh Cilantro (optional) – Brightens the dish and adds aesthetic appeal.
- Lime Wedges – Serve these alongside for added freshness and acidity when enjoying your meal.
Prepare these ingredients and get ready to create a comforting Garlic Shrimp Mofongo that will delight your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Step 1: Prepare Plantains
Start by peeling and cutting the green plantains into 1-2 inch pieces. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the plantains. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until they are tender, easily pierced with a fork. Once done, drain the plantains and set them aside to cool slightly before mashing.
Step 2: Mash Mofongo
In a mortar and pestle (or pilón), combine the cooked plantains with minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. If you’re using pork cracklings (chicharrón), fold these into the mixture for added texture. Mash the ingredients together until you achieve a fluffy yet slightly chunky consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors come together beautifully.
Step 3: Cook Garlic Shrimp
For the garlic shrimp, heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or olive oil. Once hot, sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute—taking care not to burn it. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking ensures the shrimp are tender and juicy.
Step 4: Assemble Dish
To serve your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, mold the mashed plantains into bowls or onto plates, creating a well for the shrimp. Carefully place the sautéed garlic shrimp on top of the mofongo, drizzling the pan juices over the dish for an extra flavor boost. This presentation adds not only vibrancy but also makes each bite heavenly.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. If desired, serve with lime wedges to add a zesty kick when enjoyed. This dish is best enjoyed immediately to savor its comforting warmth and delightful textures!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Shrimp Mofongo are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the mofongo base by cooking the plantains and mashing them with garlic and olive oil up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the mashed mofongo in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavors and fresh texture. For optimal taste, cook the shrimp fresh right before serving; sautéing them takes only about 8 minutes! When it’s time to eat, reheat the mofongo gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil if needed, before topping it with the sizzling garlic shrimp. Enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
- Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the mofongo moist while preserving the shrimp’s tenderness.
- Freezer: Although the assembled dish doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze the mashed plantains separately for up to 1-2 months. Be sure to wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the plantains in the microwave or skillet until warmed through. For the shrimp, sauté briefly in a pan to retain its juicy texture.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the mofongo base in advance but cook the shrimp fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; let your creativity shine!
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Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken, pork, or firm white fish for delightful alternatives. Each protein brings its own unique flavor yet allows the heart of the dish to shine.
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Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed bell peppers or onions into the mofongo for a nutritious and vibrant flair. This not only amplifies the flavors but adds a beautiful color contrast to your dish.
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Vegetarian Delight: Skip the shrimp and opt for sautéed mushrooms or a medley of roasted vegetables instead. This twist maintains the comforting essence of mofongo while catering to those seeking a veggie-forward option.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle some grated cheese, like Manchego or Parmesan, on top for a creamy richness that complements the garlic shrimp beautifully. The melty addition gives every bite a luxurious feel.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the shrimp while cooking for a little heat. This twist brings a delightful zing that’ll make your taste buds dance!
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Citrus Infusion: Incorporate zest from a lime or orange into the mofongo for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the whole dish. The added zest elevates the flavors, making it even more inviting.
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Garlic Lovers: If you can’t get enough garlic, consider roasting some cloves and mashing them into the mofongo. The sweetness of roasted garlic adds depth while still honoring its signature aroma.
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Sweet Plantain Version: Swap green plantains for ripe ones for a sweeter, caramelized version of mofongo. This sweet twist takes the dish to another level of comfort food decadence!
For an extra burst of flavor, try pairing your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with some of our other delicious recipes, like Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls or Garlic Chili Oil Noodles!
What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Elevate your dining experience by pairing your meal with these delightful accompaniments that enhance the flavors of this Puerto Rican classic.
- Puerto Rican Rice and Beans: This traditional side adds a hearty, comforting element, balancing the rich garlic shrimp beautifully. The mix of flavors is soul-satisfying.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Lightly sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and onions offer a fresh crunch, bringing a vibrant contrast to the soft mofongo. A colorful plate adds to the visual appeal!
- Light Salad: Crisp greens dressed with a zesty vinaigrette provide a refreshing cleanse to the palate after each savory bite of shrimp and plantains. Perfect for warmer evenings!
- Fried Plantains (Tostones): For plantain lovers, serving crispy tostones creates an irresistible blend of textures, enhancing the enjoyment of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo. It’s twice the plantain perfection!
- Coconut Mojito: This tropical drink with mint and coconut notes pairs wonderfully, giving a refreshing and cooling contrast to the dish’s robust flavors. Perfect for sipping!
- Flan: Close your meal on a sweet note with this silky caramel flan, which delivers a delightful creamy texture and subtle sweetness, rounding out your Puerto Rican feast perfectly.
Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
- Choose the Right Plantains: Use starchy green plantains for optimal fluffiness; overripe plantains will make the dish sweeter than intended.
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcooking shrimp, which can lead to a rubbery texture; cook until they are just pink and opaque.
- Tight Molding: Mold the mofongo tightly in your serving dish to ensure it holds its shape when served; enjoy immediately for the best texture.
- Flavor Boost: Lightly frying or roasting the plantains before mashing adds an extra depth of flavor to your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
- Adjust Garlic to Taste: If you’re sensitive to garlic’s potency, consider roasting it first; this will mellow its flavor while still providing the aromatic hit you crave.
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe FAQs
What type of plantains should I use for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! Use starchy green or slightly yellow plantains for an authentic fluffy texture. Avoid overripe plantains, as they tend to be too sweet and won’t yield the desired savory flavor in your mofongo.
How should I store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This will help keep the mofongo moist while preserving the tenderness of the shrimp. Just be sure to reheat gently!
Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
I recommend freezing the mashed plantains separately, as the assembled dish doesn’t freeze well. Be sure to wrap the plantains tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to 1-2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave or skillet.
What should I do if my shrimp turns rubbery while cooking?
Very common! To avoid rubbery shrimp, make sure you’re not overcooking them. Cook until they’re just pink and opaque, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side depending on their size. If using large shrimp, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Remember, the key to succulent shrimp is not to rush this step!
Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Yes! For those concerned about allergies, shrimp is the primary allergen here. You can easily adapt the dish to be vegetarian by substituting the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. Additionally, be mindful of any dietary restrictions with ingredients like pork cracklings if you’re avoiding animal products.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
For an extra punch of flavor, consider roasting your garlic before adding it to the mofongo mixture. Roasting will mellow the garlic’s strong bite while still imparting that essential aromatic quality. Another tip is to lightly fry or roast the plantains before mashing for deeper flavor notes. Enjoy experimenting!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: Comforting Puerto Rican Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and cut the plantains into 1-2 inch pieces. Bring salted water to a boil and add the plantains. Cook for 10-15 minutes until tender. Drain and cool slightly before mashing.
- In a mortar and pestle, combine cooked plantains with minced garlic and olive oil. Fold in pork cracklings if using. Mash until fluffy and slightly chunky. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Mold the mashed plantains into bowls or onto plates and create a well. Place sautéed shrimp on top and drizzle with pan juices.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy immediately for the best experience!
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