Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic
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.
Equipment
- Mortar and pestle or pilón (for mashing plantains)
- Skillet or frying pan
- Medium pot (for boiling plantains)
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
- Optional: garlic press
Ingredients
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 plantains into 1–2 inch pieces. Boil until tender (10–15 minutes) or fry for additional flavor.
- Mash Mofongo: Use a mortar and pestle or pilón to mash plantains with garlic, olive oil, and optional chicharrón. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook Garlic Shrimp: Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet. Sauté garlic until fragrant, add shrimp, season, and cook until pink and opaque (3–4 minutes per side).
- Assemble Dish: Mold mofongo into bowls or plates, top with garlic shrimp, and drizzle pan juices over the top.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro or lime wedges. Serve immediately for best texture.
Notes
- Storage: Mofongo base can be stored in the fridge up to 2 days; cook shrimp fresh.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms.
- Plantain Tip: Use starchy green plantains for traditional texture; ripe plantains yield sweeter, softer mofongo.
- Flavor Boost: Roast or lightly fry plantains before mashing for deeper flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare mofongo base in advance; assemble with shrimp just before serving.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with Puerto Rican rice and beans or a fresh salad.