If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and a comforting, homey feel, then you are absolutely going to love this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic Recipe. This is not just any mofongo; it’s a celebration of garlicky shrimp nestled atop perfectly mashed plantains, creating a dish that sings with every bite. The combination of crispy, tender plantains infused with garlic and the succulent shrimp swimming in savory juices makes this recipe a standout favorite in Puerto Rican cuisine. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight or impressing friends over the weekend, this dish brings joy, warmth, and a whole lot of flavor to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the starchy green plantains that provide that signature mofongo texture to the garlic that infuses the entire dish with aromatic depth. The olive oil or butter adds richness, while fresh shrimp keeps everything light and fresh. Let’s break down these essentials so you know exactly what to look out for:
- Plantains: Choose green or slightly yellow ones for the perfect balance of firmness and sweetness, essential for that authentic mofongo texture.
- Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic ensure the dish is imbued with that irresistible, pungent flavor Puerto Rican cooking is known for.
- Shrimp: One pound of medium-sized, peeled, and deveined shrimp makes the perfect protein topping to this mofongo masterpiece.
- Olive oil or butter: Adds necessary moisture and richness, helping both the plantains and shrimp reach their full flavor potential.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the vibrant notes in every ingredient.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Start by peeling your green or slightly yellow plantains and cutting them into manageable 1 to 2-inch pieces. You have the option to either boil them in salted water until they’re tender—usually about 10 to 15 minutes—or fry them for an extra layer of golden flavor and crispness. Boiling yields a soft, mashable texture perfect for the mofongo base, while frying brings out a deeper sweetness and crunch. Choose your method depending on your mood and the flavor profile you desire.
Step 2: Mash the Plantains with Garlic
Once your plantains are cooked, transfer them to a mortar and pestle, the traditional tool that helps you achieve the authentic mofongo texture. Add the minced garlic, drizzle in olive oil or melted butter, and season with salt and pepper. Then, mash everything together until you achieve a chunky, garlicky mash that’s moist but holds its shape. This step is where the mofongo truly comes alive, marrying the starchy plantains and bold garlic into a comforting, flavorful base.
Step 3: Cook the Garlic Shrimp
Heat your olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic to sauté until fragrant, releasing those mouthwatering aromas into your kitchen. Next, add the shrimp and cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, typically 3 to 4 minutes per side depending on their size. This quick cooking ensures the shrimp stay tender, juicy, and perfectly paired with your seasoned mofongo.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Mold the garlic-infused plantain mash onto your serving plates, shaping it into a mound or circular form, whichever looks prettiest to you. Top generously with the garlic shrimp and be sure to drizzle those luscious pan juices over the top to keep everything moist and bursting with flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture experience.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped cilantro adds a bright green pop and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the hearty mofongo beautifully. You might also enjoy a wedge of lime or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil on top for an extra zing. These simple touches elevate the presentation and taste, making every bite a delight.
Side Dishes
This dish is stellar on its own, but pairing your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with a crisp mixed green salad or some tangy pickled onions can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. A side of black beans or a light avocado salad also makes for an authentic and balanced Puerto Rican meal that feels complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try serving your garlic shrimp mofongo inside hollowed-out fried green plantains or crispy tostones cups. Another fun idea is to plate individual mofongo balls topped with single shrimp portions for elegant appetizers. Layering it with sautéed vegetables or a drizzle of spicy sauce can also add visual flair and deepen the flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover mofongo and shrimp in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because mofongo tends to absorb moisture, it might firm up, but a quick reheat will bring it back to life beautifully.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is a bit tricky since mofongo’s texture changes when frozen and thawed, often becoming gummy. If necessary, freeze the mashed plantains and shrimp separately in airtight containers and consume within a month, but fresh preparation is definitely best.
Reheating
For reheating, warm the mofongo gently in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil to revive its texture and moisture. Heat the shrimp quickly just until warmed through to avoid overcooking and drying them out. This method keeps your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic Recipe tasting almost as fresh as when it was first made.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet. This ensures your shrimp stay nicely seared and flavorful.
What type of plantains should I use?
Green or slightly yellow plantains are best for mofongo since they are firm and less sweet, providing the ideal texture and neutral base for the garlic and shrimp flavors.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can swap out the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or fried cheese cubes to maintain the rich, savory profile while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make mofongo without a mortar and pestle?
You can use a potato masher or even a sturdy fork to mash the plantains, but a mortar and pestle really give you the authentic texture and help blend the garlic evenly. If you want the true Puerto Rican experience, investing in one is worth it.
How spicy is this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
This recipe is typically mild and garlicky, but you can always add a dash of hot sauce or some sliced fresh chili peppers if you like a bit of heat with your mofongo.
Final Thoughts
I promise this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic Recipe will become one of those dishes you return to again and again. It’s comforting, vibrant, and packed with layers of flavor that make every forkful a joyous celebration. Don’t hesitate to roll up your sleeves and dive into making this Puerto Rican treasure. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
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Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Description
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a vibrant and classic Puerto Rican dish featuring mashed plantains infused with garlic, topped with succulent sautéed shrimp. This flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of plantains with the savory zest of garlic shrimp, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Plantains and Mash
- 4 green or slightly yellow plantains
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shrimp
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Minced garlic (from above)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Plantains: Peel the plantains and cut them into 1–2 inch pieces. Boil the pieces in salted water for about 10–15 minutes until tender. Alternatively, you can fry them to add extra flavor.
- Mash Plantains: Using a mortar and pestle, mash the cooked plantains together with the minced garlic. Gradually add olive oil or butter while mashing, and season with salt and pepper to taste, forming a smooth mofongo base.
- Sauté Shrimp: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Assemble Mofongo: Mold the mashed plantains onto serving plates. Top with the garlic shrimp and drizzle the pan juices over them. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can fry plantains instead of boiling to add a richer flavor to the mofongo.
- Adjust garlic quantity to taste for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best results; frozen shrimp can be substituted but ensure they are thawed and drained.
- Serve with a side of salad or avocado for a balanced meal.
