Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic! This dish features crispy mashed plantains paired with succulent, garlicky shrimp, making it a hearty and comforting choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its unique blend of flavors and textures will satisfy your cravings, ensuring it becomes a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavors: The combination of garlic shrimp and seasoned plantains creates a rich and savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Quick Preparation: With only 50 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it alone or paired with sautéed vegetables or rice and beans for a complete meal.
• Comforting Texture: The crispiness of the mofongo complements the tender shrimp, offering a delightful eating experience.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust spices and garnishes according to your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo come out perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mortar and pestle (pilón): Ideal for mashing plantains into a smooth consistency while blending in garlic and oils seamlessly.
• Skillet: Provides an even cooking surface for sautéing shrimp, ensuring they are perfectly cooked without sticking.
• Pot for boiling: Essential for cooking plantains until tender, which is crucial for achieving the right texture in mofongo.

Ingredients

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.

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

Garnishes

• Optional: paprika or fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges
• Sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans

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

Step 1: Prepare Plantains

• Peel and cut the plantains into 1–2 inch pieces.
• Boil them in water until tender (approximately 10–15 minutes). Alternatively, fry them if you want extra flavor.

Step 2: Mash Mofongo

• In a mortar and pestle (or pilón), mash the boiled plantains together with minced garlic.
• Add olive oil (or butter) along with optional chicharrón.
• Season with salt and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Cook Garlic Shrimp

• Heat butter (or olive oil) in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
• Add peeled shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
• Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque (about 3–4 minutes per side).

Step 4: Assemble Dish

• Mold the mofongo into bowls or onto plates as desired.
• Top each serving with garlic shrimp. Drizzle pan juices over the top for added flavor.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or paprika if you like.
• Serve immediately alongside lime wedges for an extra zing!

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

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delightful dish that offers a burst of flavors and textures. Served hot, it can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh herbaceous note.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges to add a zesty kick when squeezed over the dish.

Accompanying Sauces

• Garlic Butter Sauce: Drizzle extra garlic butter sauce over the shrimp for added richness.
• Spicy Aioli: A spicy aioli can elevate the flavor profile with its creamy texture.

Serving Utensils

• Soup Spoon: Use a soup spoon for easy scooping of the mofongo and shrimp.
• Small Bowls: Individual bowls can make serving more personal and inviting.

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

To achieve the ideal Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, follow these helpful tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavors: Use plenty of garlic when preparing both the mofongo and shrimp to ensure the dish is bursting with flavor.
• Optimal Plantain Ripeness: Choose plantains that are green or just slightly yellow for the best texture; they should be firm but tender when cooked.
• Consistent Mashing: Mash the plantains thoroughly to create a smooth consistency without lumps for an enjoyable mouthfeel.
• Heat Control: Cook shrimp on medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear without overcooking them.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo right after preparation; it’s at its peak when fresh.
• Experiment with Seasoning: Adjust salt, pepper, or add spices like paprika to customize flavors according to your palate.

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

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Sautéed Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, onions, and zucchini sautéed in olive oil adds freshness and crunch.
2. Puerto Rican Rice and Beans: This staple provides a hearty complement that balances flavors well.
3. Tostones (Fried Green Plantains): Crispy tostones add an extra layer of plantain goodness and texture contrast.
4. Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad with lime dressing lightens up the meal while adding healthy fats.
5. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa brings a fruity brightness that pairs beautifully with savory mofongo.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy contrast, balancing the richness of the mofongo.
7. Pickled Red Onions: These add a sharp bite that cuts through the richness and enhances overall flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overcooking plantains: If the plantains are boiled too long, they may become mushy. Boil them just until tender for the best texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season each layer can lead to bland mofongo. Make sure to add salt and pepper while mashing and cooking shrimp.
• Skipping the chicharrón: While optional, adding beef cracklings gives a unique crunch. Don’t skip this step if you want that extra flavor!
• Underestimating garlic: Using too little garlic will make the dish less flavorful. Garlic is key in this recipe, so don’t hold back!
• Ignoring garnish options: Garnishes like fresh cilantro or lime wedges enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor. Always include these for a finishing touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal flavor.

Freezing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, here are some common inquiries.

What is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains seasoned with garlic and topped with succulent shrimp sautéed in olive oil.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Yes! You can substitute shrimp with chicken or turkey for different flavors while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

How do I make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo vegan?

To make a vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.

What can I serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo pairs well with sautéed vegetables or traditional Puerto Rican rice and beans for a complete meal.

How spicy is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

The dish is not inherently spicy but can be adjusted by adding crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a flavor-packed Puerto Rican classic that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding different proteins or garnishes. Don’t hesitate to try making this delicious dish at home!