Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Name: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 green plantains, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt, to taste; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup chicharrón (crispy pork skin), crushed; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons butter; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Creations

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delicious and vibrant dish that showcases the rich flavors of Puerto Rico. This unique recipe combines crispy fried plantains with succulent garlic shrimp, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-12-11T20:21:05.782Z

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a beloved dish that embodies the heart and soul of Puerto Rican cuisine. This comforting dish features mashed fried plantains, a staple in Puerto Rican households, infused with garlic and served with a rich shrimp sauce. The delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite for gatherings and special occasions.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold garlic flavor that elevates the dish
Crispy texture of fried plantains combined with tender shrimp
A comforting meal that's perfect for sharing with family and friends

      

The Story Behind Mofongo

Mofongo is a cherished dish in Puerto Rican cuisine, with roots that trace back to the African influence on the island's cooking. Originally, the dish was made with mashed plantains, which were pounded in a mortar and mixed with various ingredients. Over the years, mofongo has evolved, incorporating different flavors and textures, making it a beloved staple among locals and visitors alike.

Traditionally, mofongo is served with a variety of toppings, including meats, seafood, or vegetables, allowing for endless variations. The combination of crispy fried plantains and rich, flavorful sauces creates a delightful experience for the palate, inviting everyone to gather around the table and share stories over a hearty meal.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to pairing with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, several sides can elevate your dining experience. A refreshing avocado salad or a zesty pico de gallo can add a burst of freshness to the rich flavors of the dish. Additionally, serving your mofongo with a side of steamed vegetables or a light green salad can balance out the meal, making it not just delicious but also nutritious.

For beverage pairings, consider enjoying this flavorful dish with a crisp white wine or a fruity sangria. The acidity in these drinks complements the savory notes of the garlic shrimp and the fried plantains, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

To achieve the perfect texture for your mofongo, make sure to use green plantains rather than ripe ones. Green plantains have a firmer consistency that holds up well when mashed and mixed with the other ingredients. Additionally, don’t skip the chicharrón; its crispy texture adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the plantains.

When cooking the shrimp, be mindful not to overcook them as they can become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink for the best results. Finally, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and lime juice to suit your taste preferences, creating a dish that is uniquely yours.

Ingredients

For the Mofongo

3 green plantains, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt, to taste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup chicharrón (crispy pork skin), crushed

For the Garlic Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons butter
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Mofongo

1. In a large pot, heat water and bring it to a boil. Add the plantain pieces and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.

2. In a large bowl, mash the cooked plantains with a potato masher. Stir in the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and chicken broth until well combined. Fold in the crushed chicharrón for added texture.

Cook the Garlic Shrimp

3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Season with lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Dish

5. To serve, mold the mofongo into bowls or plates and top it with the garlic shrimp. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top for extra flavor.

Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Garlic Shrimp Mofongo!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the mofongo and garlic shrimp separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Mofongo can last for up to three days, while the shrimp is best consumed within two days to maintain freshness. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat for the shrimp to prevent overcooking.

For the mofongo, you can reheat it in the microwave, but adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore some moisture and prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can warm it in a skillet, adding a little olive oil to enhance flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is versatile and can be served as a main dish or as part of a larger feast. Consider serving it alongside other Puerto Rican classics such as arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas) or tostones (fried green plantains) to create a vibrant spread that showcases the island’s culinary heritage.

For a more casual setting, you can serve mofongo in individual bowls, allowing guests to customize their portions with garlic shrimp and sauce. This makes it an ideal dish for gatherings or family dinners, bringing everyone together to enjoy a delicious and hearty meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ripe plantains instead of green?

Ripe plantains will produce a sweeter mofongo, but it's traditionally made with green plantains for a savory taste.

→ What can I substitute for shrimp?

You can use chicken, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

All the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure no cross-contamination occurs.

→ Can I prepare mofongo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mofongo in advance and reheat it before serving. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.