Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic Recipe
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a flavor-packed Puerto Rican classic combining mashed green plantains with garlic and crispy pork cracklings, topped with succulent garlic sautéed shrimp. This dish offers a delightful blend of savory, garlicky flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect as a comforting main course or special occasion meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mofongo:
- 4 green or slightly yellow plantains
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup pork 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
Optional Accompaniments:
- Lime wedges
- Sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans
Instructions
- Prepare Plantains: Peel and cut the plantains into 1–2 inch pieces. Boil them in water until tender, about 10–15 minutes. For additional flavor, you may fry the plantain pieces briefly after boiling.
- Mash Mofongo: Using a mortar and pestle or pilón, mash the cooked plantains together with the minced garlic, olive oil or butter, and optional pork cracklings (chicharrón). Season with salt and pepper to taste until you achieve a well-blended, chunky consistency.
- Cook Garlic Shrimp: Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Assemble Dish: Mold the mashed mofongo onto plates or into bowls. Top with the cooked garlic shrimp and drizzle the flavorful pan juices over the top for extra richness.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika if desired, and serve immediately alongside lime wedges. Complement the dish with sautéed vegetables or traditional Puerto Rican rice and beans for a complete meal.
Notes
- Storage: The mofongo base can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; cook the shrimp fresh for best taste and texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms to make a vegetarian version.
- Plantain Tip: Use starchy green plantains for the traditional mofongo texture; using ripe plantains will result in a sweeter, softer dish.
- Flavor Boost: Roasting or lightly frying the plantains before mashing enhances the depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mofongo base ahead of time and assemble with freshly cooked shrimp just before serving.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair the dish with Puerto Rican rice and beans or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.
Keywords: Mofongo, Garlic Shrimp, Puerto Rican, Plantains, Caribbean, Seafood, Traditional, Easy Dinner
