When the sun sets and the aroma of garlic fills my kitchen, I know it’s time to whip up a comforting classic: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo. This Puerto Rican dish combines the rich, earthy flavors of crispy plantains and succulent shrimp in a way that’s nothing short of magical. With every bite, the smooth, garlicky mofongo is a warm embrace that takes me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and joy.
Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight family dinner or prepping for a festive celebration, this dish’s vibrant flavors and effortless preparation truly make it a culinary gem. And if you’re leaning toward a meatless meal, don’t worry—you can easily switch out the shrimp for seasonal vegetables, making it versatile enough to please everyone at the table. Join me in recreating this delightful Latin comfort food that showcases the heart of Caribbean cuisine in your own home!
Why Will You Love Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Bold flavors ignite your senses with every bite, as the garlicky, succulent shrimp pairs perfectly with the crispy plantains. Heartwarming comfort comes from the fluffy mofongo, sure to wrap you in a cozy embrace reminiscent of family gatherings. Versatile cooking lets you easily swap shrimp for roasted veggies for a delightful vegetarian twist. Quick preparation means you can have a flavorful meal on the table in just under 30 minutes. Crowd-pleaser appeal ensures that this dish will delight both friends and family, making it ideal for any occasion. Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your weeknight dinners!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Ingredients
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For the Mofongo
• Plantains – The foundation of this dish; use green or slightly yellow for the perfect texture.
• Garlic – Fresh, minced garlic offers the aromatic flavor that defines this recipe.
• Olive Oil or Butter – Choose either for mashing and sautéing to enhance the dish’s richness.
• Optional Pork Cracklings (Chicharrón) – Adds a crunch and authentic taste; not essential, but recommended for tradition. -
For the Garlic Shrimp
• Medium Shrimp – Peeled and deveined shrimp absorb the flavors beautifully; aim for mid-sized for best results.
• Paprika or Fresh Cilantro (optional) – Use for garnish to add color and fresh notes to your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo. -
For Serving
• Lime Wedges – Squeeze over the top for a bright finish that elevates the dish.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
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Prepare Plantains: Start by peeling and cutting the plantains into 1–2 inch pieces. Boil them in salted water until tender, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, fry them for a richer, deeper flavor.
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Mash Mofongo: Using a mortar and pestle, mash the cooked plantains together with minced garlic, olive oil, and optional chicharrón. Aim for a smooth yet slightly chunky consistency. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
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Cook Garlic Shrimp: Heat some butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the medium shrimp. Season well and cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque—usually about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Assemble Dish: Mold the mofongo onto plates to create a lovely base. Top generously with the garlic shrimp and drizzle some pan juices on top for an extra layer of flavor.
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Serve Immediately: Garnish your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy it right away for the best texture and taste!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a touch of warmth.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil to maintain texture.
Freezer: You can freeze the mofongo base for up to 1 month; portion it into freezer bags and lay flat. Reheat by thawing overnight and warming in a skillet.
Shrimp Storage: Cooked shrimp can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re covered well to avoid drying out.
Reheating: Reheat the complete dish gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of water or broth to keep it moist. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Shrimp Mofongo fresh whenever possible!
What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
The vibrant flavors of this iconic dish will inspire you to create the perfect meal experience.
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Sautéed Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add a fresh crunch, enhancing the comforting mofongo and shrimp.
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Simple Green Salad: A tangy salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette lightens the meal, balancing the richness of the mofongo perfectly.
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Classic Puerto Rican Rice and Beans: This traditional pairing complements the savory notes of the garlic shrimp and brings an authentic touch to your table.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds a luscious texture and a cooling effect that beautifully contrasts with the garlicky shrimp.
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Tostones: Crispy fried plantains maintain that Caribbean flair, creating a satisfying crunch alongside the fluffy mofongo.
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Coconut Flan: Finish the meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert, which offers a delightful balance to the savory aspects of the dish.
Enjoy the delightful combinations that amplify every bite of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo!
Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Customize your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with these delightful twists to make it uniquely yours!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with roasted seasonal vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty dish. This maintains the delicious essence of mofongo while accommodating meat-free diets.
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Different Proteins: Swap out shrimp for chicken, pork, or even firm white fish like cod to cater to different tastes. Each option brings its own flavor profile, making this dish versatile for any occasion.
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Spice it Up: Add smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. This variation can awaken your taste buds while enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Vegetable Additions: Mix in sautéed onions, bell peppers, or tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. These vegetable twists will add a burst of freshness and texture to your mofongo.
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Cheese Option: Sprinkle grated Manchego or Parmesan cheese over the top for an indulgent touch. The salty, creamy flavor of cheese can elevate the dish to a new level of comfort.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even basil into the mofongo. The addition of fresh herbs not only brightens the flavor but also adds an aromatic component.
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Coconut Milk: For a tropical twist, replace some of the olive oil with coconut milk when mashing the plantains. This will add a touch of sweetness and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the garlic.
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Lemon Zest: Introduce a hint of brightness with freshly grated lemon zest in the mashed mofongo. This little addition will elevate the flavors, making each bite more refreshing.
Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
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Use a Mortar and Pestle: Traditional tools like a mortar and pestle create the best texture for mofongo; they help incorporate the garlic evenly.
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Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Tender, juicy shrimp are the goal; they should be cooked until just pink, typically around 3-4 minutes per side.
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Avoid Overripe Plantains: For classic mofongo, use green or slightly yellow plantains. Overripe ones can be too sweet and won’t yield the desired savory flavor.
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Customize Garlic Levels: Adjust the amount of minced garlic based on your taste preference; raw garlic offers more punch, while roasted garlic is milder and sweeter.
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Add Fresh Lime: For a burst of brightness, drizzle fresh lime juice over the assembled dish just before serving. This enhances the flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Shrimp Mofongo are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the mofongo base up to 2 days in advance; simply mash the cooked plantains with garlic and olive oil, then refrigerate in an airtight container. To prevent browning, make sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the mofongo in a skillet over low heat. For the shrimp, you can also season and prep them up to 24 hours prior to cooking. When it’s mealtime, simply sauté the shrimp for a few minutes until they are pink and tender, and enjoy a hassle-free meal that’s just as delicious!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe FAQs
What type of plantains should I use for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! For the best texture in your mofongo, choose green or slightly yellow plantains. This helps achieve that perfect balance of savory and starchy, while overripe plantains can make the dish too sweet.
How should I store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Very! Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil, which helps maintain the mofongo’s texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! You can freeze the mofongo base for up to 1 month. To do this, portion it into freezer bags, lay them flat for easier storage, and be sure to expel excess air. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet until warmed through.
What if my shrimp are overcooked?
Oh no! If your shrimp turn out overcooked and rubbery, there may not be a magic fix, but here’s a tip: consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of broth when reheating to help restore moisture. Make sure to cook shrimp for just 3-4 minutes per side for best results—watching them carefully!
Is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! This dish can easily be made vegetarian by swapping shrimp for sautéed vegetables or mushrooms, and it is naturally gluten-free. Be mindful of the olive oil or butter used for sautéing, depending on dietary preferences. Always check labels for any allergies, especially with the optional pork cracklings.
How do I know when the plantains are cooked perfectly?
Sure! When boiling, you’re looking for them to become fork-tender, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes. If you opt to fry them, aim for a golden brown color while ensuring they don’t become too crispy—think soft yet slightly crispy outside!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: A Cozy Taste of Puerto Rico at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Plantains: Peel and cut the plantains into 1-2 inch pieces. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes, or fry them for deeper flavor.
- Mash Mofongo: Mash the cooked plantains with minced garlic, olive oil, and optional chicharrón. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook Garlic Shrimp: Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Assemble Dish: Mold mofongo onto plates, top with garlic shrimp, and drizzle with pan juices.
- Serve Immediately: Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy right away for best texture and taste!
