Name: Savory Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: A Puerto Rican Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 large Plantains (Choose green or slightly yellow for fluffiness.); 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced garlic.); 2-3 tablespoons Olive Oil/Butter (For mofongo mash and sautéing shrimp.); 1/4 cup Pork Cracklings (Chicharrón) (Optional for added crunch.); 1 lb Shrimp (Medium-sized, peeled and deveined.); Salt and Pepper (Season to taste.); Fresh Cilantro (For garnishing.); Lime Wedges (For a zesty finish.); Puerto Rican Rice and Beans (Pairs beautifully.)

As I scoured through an old family cookbook, my fingers brushed against the page featuring Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, a dish that sums up the vibrant heart of Puerto Rican cuisine. The crispy, golden plantains, combined with succulent shrimp bathed in garlicky goodness, create a comforting meal that feels like a warm embrace. This delightful recipe not only brings authenticity to your kitchen but also offers an impressive yet easy-to-follow option for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Plus, with a vegetarian twist available, it’s adaptable for all palates. Are you ready to dive into a flavorful culinary adventure? Let’s bring a taste of the Caribbean to your table!

Why is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of this dish packs a punch, with crispy, golden plantains harmonizing perfectly with garlicky shrimp.
Adaptable Goodness: Whether you want to stick to the classic shrimp or switch it up with chicken or vegetables, this recipe caters to all cravings.
Quick and Simple: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this comfort food dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Cultural Experience: Dive deep into Puerto Rican cuisine and experience a rich tapestry of flavors and history right in your kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s an impressive meal that will wow your family and friends—not to mention it pairs wonderfully with a side of Puerto Rican rice and beans for a balanced feast!

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Ingredients

• Get ready to create this flavorful dish with a blend of traditional ingredients that shine!

For the Mofongo

Plantains – Choose green or slightly yellow for the ideal fluffy texture; overripe plantains can be too sweet.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is essential; about 4 cloves will give it that aromatic punch.
Olive Oil/Butter – Use 2-3 tablespoons for the mofongo mash and 2 tablespoons for sautéing shrimp, adding richness to the dish.
Pork Cracklings (Chicharrón) – Optional, but 1/4 cup adds an authentic crunch and delicious flavor depth.

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Use 1 lb of medium-sized, peeled, and deveined shrimp to soak up that delightful garlic flavor.

For Seasoning

Salt and Pepper – Season to taste; a sprinkle of optional paprika can add color and subtle spice.
Fresh Cilantro – Use for garnishing, adding a refreshing touch to the dish.

Optional Accompaniments

Lime Wedges – Perfect for a zesty finish!
Puerto Rican Rice and Beans – This classic side pairs beautifully with the Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, enhancing the meal experience.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s embark on this delightful cooking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Step 1: Prepare Plantains
Start by peeling your plantains and cutting them into 1-2 inch pieces. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the plantain pieces, cooking them for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, you can fry them until golden brown. Once cooked, drain the water and set the plantains aside.

Step 2: Mash Mofongo
In a mortar and pestle or a large bowl, begin mashing the boiled plantains using a firm but gentle pressure. Add in the minced garlic and drizzle about 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter, along with optional chicharrón for an authentic crunch. Continue mashing until everything is well combined, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Aim for a fluffy yet slightly chunky texture for the perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

Step 3: Cook Garlic Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of either olive oil or butter. Once hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Then, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque, ensuring they remain tender.

Step 4: Assemble Dish
On a serving plate or in individual bowls, mold your fluffy mofongo into a mound using the back of a spoon or your hands. Generously top each serving with the sautéed garlic shrimp, arranging them beautifully for an inviting presentation. Make sure to drizzle some of the pan juices over the entire dish for that extra flavor boost.

Step 5: Serve
Garnish your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch, or add lime wedges on the side for a zesty flavor. It’s best enjoyed immediately while hot, allowing you to savor the delightful combination of fluffy plantains and succulent shrimp. For a complete meal, serve with Puerto Rican rice and beans on the side.

Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Perfect Plantains: Use firm, green plantains for a classic, fluffy texture. Overripe ones will make your mofongo too sweet and mushy.
Garlic Control: Adjust garlic according to your taste, but don’t skimp on it! Fresh minced garlic is crucial for that rich flavor in garlic shrimp mofongo.
Avoid Tough Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking; overcooking can make them rubbery. Aim for the perfect pink and opaque color.
Storage Secrets: If you have leftovers, store the mofongo in an airtight container for up to 2 days but remember that it’s best fresh for that delightful texture.
Vegetarian Variation: For a vegetarian twist, swap shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables to keep both flavor and heartiness in your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Complement your dining experience with delightful sides that elevate this vibrant dish into a full-fledged feast.

Puerto Rican Rice and Beans: A classic pairing that brings hearty flavor and a nutritious element to your meal. Together, they create a balanced plate.
Tropical Fruit Salad: Offer a refreshing contrast with sweet, juicy fruits like mango and pineapple to cleanse the palate amid the rich, savory mofongo.
Garlic-Butter Broccolini: The delicate crunch and subtle garlic flavors enhance the dish’s richness, adding a beautiful color contrast to your plate.
Crispy Fried Plantains: Double down on the plantain love with sweet and salty tostones for a fun, crunchy side full of texture. They’re irresistible!
Coconut Flan: End your meal on a sweet note with creamy coconut flan, offering a light and luscious dessert that complements the savory garlic shrimp beautifully.
Mojito: Sip on this refreshing cocktail, with its minty and citrusy notes, as it cuts through the dish’s richness and adds a festive touch to your dining experience.
Arugula Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A zesty salad brings freshness and brightness, making every bite of mofongo even more enjoyable and enhancing the entire meal experience.

Make Ahead Options

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeks. You can prepare the mofongo base by mashing the plantains and garlic, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its fluffy texture, add a drizzle of olive oil before sealing. On the day you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mofongo gently in a pan over low heat while you sauté the shrimp, which can also be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Finish by combining the two, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful dish that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Feel free to get creative and customize your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo to suit your taste preferences!

Protein Swaps: Substitute shrimp for chicken, pork, or firm white fish like cod for a different protein experience.
Switching proteins not only alters the flavor profile but also gives you the chance to explore new culinary adventures!
Vegetarian Delight: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian twist.
This variation works wonderfully and still captures that comforting, hearty essence of mofongo.
Heat Level: Add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper if you like a spicier kick. For a milder flavor, stick with just salt and pepper.
Experimenting with heat can transform the dish, making each bite unique and inviting!
Flavor Boosts: Toss in sautéed onions, bell peppers, or diced tomatoes into the mofongo mixture for added flavor and texture.
These add-ins introduce a delightful crunch and warmth, making your mofongo even more hearty and satisfying.
Cheesy Goodness: Garnish with grated Manchego or Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory finish to your dish.
The melted cheese adds a creamy touch that pairs beautifully with the garlic and plantains, elevating the overall experience.
Tropical Twist: For a fruity kick, try adding diced pineapple or mango on top of the shrimp.
This sweet addition contrasts wonderfully with the savory notes, providing a refreshing taste of the tropics.
Garlic Lovers’ Dream: If you adore garlic, roast a few cloves to add to the mofongo mash for a milder, sweeter flavor.
It enhances the dish with an extra layer of richness that garlic enthusiasts will absolutely love!
Nut-Free Option: Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free variation, ensuring a nut-free and plant-based dish.
This swap still delivers delicious flavor without compromising on the creamy texture of the mofongo.

Embrace these variations to make the Garlic Shrimp Mofongo your own, and don’t forget to pair it with a side of Puerto Rican rice and beans for a well-rounded meal!

Storage Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container for up to 2 days to retain its texture and flavor.

Freezer: If you need to freeze it, wrap the mofongo tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture and fluffiness.

Tip: For best results, store shrimp separately from the mofongo for optimal freshness, as the seafood can spoil faster.

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right plantains for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! When selecting plantains, go for green or slightly yellow ones. Green plantains will bring that essential starchy, fluffy texture needed for mofongo. Overripe plantains, which are yellow with dark spots all over, tend to be too sweet, compromising the savory profile of the dish.

What is the best way to store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Very! Leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh, I recommend gently reheating it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore its moisture and fluffiness.

Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Definitely! You can freeze the mofongo by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently reheat—just be sure to store the shrimp separately for maximum freshness!

What should I do if my shrimp turns out tough while cooking?
Great question! To avoid tough shrimp, cook them just until they are pink and opaque, typically 3-4 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook. If you find they are already tough, try simmering them in a bit of broth or sauce after cooking to help restore some tenderness.

Is there a vegetarian option for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! For a delicious vegetarian twist, you can replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. This maintains the heartiness and comfort of the dish while keeping it satisfying and flavorful. I often add extra garlic and spices to enhance the taste further!

Can my pets eat any part of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
It’s best to avoid sharing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with pets, especially due to the garlic and spices, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. Make sure to keep a special, pet-friendly treat for your furry friends instead!