Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a sensational Puerto Rican dish that beautifully blends the robust flavors of garlic, succulent shrimp, and perfectly mashed plantains. This iconic recipe bursts with taste and texture, delivering a memorable dining experience that combines savory, garlicky shrimp with the comforting richness of mofongo’s fried green plantains. Whether you’re craving something exotic yet approachable or eager to explore Caribbean cuisine, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a must-try that promises to excite your palate and elevate your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor Fusion: The combination of garlic-infused shrimp and seasoned mashed plantains creates an irresistible taste explosion.
• Comfort in Every Bite: Mofongo offers a hearty, satisfying texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Outcome: With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you get a restaurant-quality dish at home.
• Cultural Culinary Experience: It’s a delicious way to explore authentic Puerto Rican cooking traditions.
• Versatile for Any Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a stunning party dish to wow your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo are straightforward yet essential, each bringing something special. From the fragrant garlic and fresh shrimp to the crispy fried plantains, every component works in harmony to create the dish’s signature flavor and texture.

• Green Plantains: Unripe plantains are the foundation, fried to golden perfection for the mofongo base.
• Fresh Shrimp: Juicy, peeled shrimp provide a tender, seafood punch that complements the plantains.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic is the star seasoning, enhancing the shrimp and mofongo with its rich aroma.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing shrimp and garlic, adding a smooth, fruity note to the dish.
• Pork Cracklings (Chicharrón): Optional but traditional, these add crunchy texture and savory depth to the mofongo.
• Chicken Broth: Helps moisten the mashed plantains for the perfect consistency and adds subtle flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to taste, balancing the bold ingredients.
• Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: Added at the end for freshness and a hint of herbaceous brightness.

Variations for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is wonderfully adaptable for different tastes, dietary choices, or ingredient availability. Feel free to tailor this recipe to suit your personal preferences or explore exciting variations.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to infuse heat into the shrimp.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix grated queso fresco or mozzarella into the mofongo for a creamy texture.
• Seafood Medley: Incorporate scallops or crab meat alongside shrimp for a luxe seafood blend.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: This dish is naturally gluten-free, just ensure broth and any added seasonings are free of gluten.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Step 1: Prepare the Plantains

Start by peeling and slicing the green plantains into thick rounds. Fry them in hot oil until golden and tender, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mash the Plantains

Using a mortar and pestle or a sturdy bowl and spoon, mash the fried plantains with minced garlic, pork cracklings if using, a splash of chicken broth, salt, and pepper until you achieve a chunky, cohesive mixture.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper, cooking until they turn pink and curled, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Mofongo

Shape the mashed plantain mixture into small bowls or mounds on each plate, then spoon the garlic shrimp over or alongside the mofongo, garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

• Choose Firm Plantains: Green, unripe plantains yield the best texture for mofongo.
• Control the Garlic: Adjust garlic amounts based on your preference for a subtler or more pungent flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; remove from heat as soon as they are opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
• Use Fresh Oil for Frying: Clean oil results in better-tasting, crispier plantains.
• Mash with Care: Aim for a balance of smooth and chunky textures in your mofongo for authenticity.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley brighten the dish and add a pop of color, while thinly sliced red onions or a wedge of lime provide sharp contrast and freshness.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or avocado slices to balance the richness of the mofongo. For an extra touch, a side of Puerto Rican-style rice or pickled pink onions pair beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Make individual mofongo balls by shaping the mixture into small spheres for appetizers or serve family-style in a large bowl topped with generous shrimp arrangements for a festive look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days, ensuring freshness and flavor are maintained.

Freezing

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo freezes well; separate mofongo from shrimp before freezing, store in freezer-safe bags, and consume within one month for best taste.

Reheating

Warm mofongo gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore moisture, and reheat shrimp separately to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

What is mofongo made from?

Mofongo is made primarily from mashed green plantains that are fried and then mashed with seasonings and sometimes pork cracklings for added texture and flavor.

Can I use ripe plantains for mofongo?

While ripe plantains are sweeter, traditional mofongo uses green plantains to achieve the savory, starchy texture essential to the dish.

Is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo spicy?

The dish is usually mild but packed with garlicky savoriness; you can easily add spices if you prefer some heat.

Can Garlic Shrimp Mofongo be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! The dish naturally contains no gluten as long as you use gluten-free broth and seasonings.

What can I substitute for pork cracklings?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, toasted garlic or crispy fried onions can add texture similar to pork cracklings without the meat.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a culinary treasure from Puerto Rico that blends simplicity with stunning flavor. It’s a dish that welcomes anyone—from seasoned chefs to home cooks—into the vibrant world of Caribbean cuisine. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let Garlic Shrimp Mofongo introduce your taste buds to something truly unforgettable.

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