The first time I took a bite of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, I was transported to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico, where food is a celebration of life. The crispy edges of golden plantains melded with the rich, garlicky goodness of succulent shrimp created a dish that felt both comforting and exotic. Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying during a cozy night in, this recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that can easily adapt to your tastes—whether you prefer a cozy vegetarian option or a meaty version bursting with spice.
With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll whip up a plate of Mofongo that looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of buttery mashed plantains, topped with tender shrimp, all while the aroma wafts through your home. Ready to dive into this crowd-pleaser? Let’s get cooking!
Why will you love Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Succulence, this dish is a delightful explosion of flavors that elevates any meal with its Puerto Rican roots.
- Easy to Prepare: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and is quick to cook.
- Versatile Variations: Easily swap out shrimp for chicken or veggies to cater to different preferences.
- Comfort Food: Mashed plantains paired with garlicky shrimp create a satisfying, warm dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up family-style or in individual bowls, and watch your loved ones dig in with delight!
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust seasonings to your liking—add heat with crushed red pepper or richness with cheese for an unforgettable experience.
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Ingredients
For the Mofongo
- Plantains – The star ingredient; use green or slightly yellow ones for a fluffy texture without sweetness.
- Garlic – Essential for that delicious flavor; minced for maximum infusion into both the mofongo and shrimp.
- Olive Oil or Butter – Adds richness to the dish; opt for olive oil for a healthier choice or butter for a classic taste.
- Pork Cracklings (Chicharrón) – An optional yet traditional addition; provides delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
For the Garlic Shrimp
- Medium Shrimp – The protein powerhouse; ensure they are peeled and deveined to save time during cooking.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika, Cilantro) – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your taste preference, especially for this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
- Lime Wedges – Optional garnish that adds a zing of acidity and freshness.
Optional Accompaniments
- Sautéed Vegetables – Consider options like bell peppers and onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Puerto Rican Rice and Beans – A traditional pairing that rounds out the meal beautifully.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
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Prepare Plantains: Peel and slice the plantains into 1–2 inch pieces. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 10–15 minutes, or for a crispy texture, fry until golden brown.
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Mash Mofongo: In a mortar and pestle, mix the cooked plantains with minced garlic, olive oil, and optional chicharrón. Mash until smooth yet slightly chunky, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Cook Garlic Shrimp: Heat your skillet over medium heat and add either butter or olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then toss in the shrimp. Season and cook until they turn pink and opaque, around 3–4 minutes per side.
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Assemble Dish: Mold the mofongo into bowls or shape onto plates. Top generously with the garlic shrimp and drizzle the pan juices over them for added flavor.
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Serve: Garnish your masterpiece with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, and serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and taste!
Optional: Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a delightful kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Ready to make this dish your own? Dive into these delightful variations that will transform your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo into something wonderfully unique!
- Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with diced chicken breast; sauté until golden and cooked through for a hearty twist.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu instead of shrimp, enhancing flavor with a splash of soy sauce.
- Cheesy Touch: Sprinkle over Manchego or Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra layer of richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or cayenne pepper for a fiery flavor; start with a pinch and adjust to your heat preference.
- Savory Greens: Incorporate sautéed greens like spinach or kale into the mofongo mix, boosting nutritional value and vibrancy.
- Citrus Zest: Mix in some lime or orange zest to the garlic shrimp for a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with the dish.
- Nutty Addition: Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds to bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to each bite.
- Veggie Medley: Toss in sautéed bell peppers and onions with the shrimp or mix into the mofongo for extra color and flavor.
Embrace these options and create a version of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo that speaks to your personal taste!
What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Transform your meal into a fiesta of flavors with these delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the rich and garlicky goodness of your mofongo.
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Puerto Rican Rice and Beans: A classic pairing that adds a hearty, comforting element, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Sautéed Seasonal Vegetables: Fresh veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring vibrant colors and textures to the plate, balancing the richness of the mofongo.
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Tangy Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado tossed with lime juice provides a cool, refreshing contrast that elevates every bite.
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Crispy Fried Plantains: For a double dose of plantain goodness, serve crispy tostones as a fun finger food while adding more texture.
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Garlic Butter Broccoli: A side of garlic sautéed broccoli enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a nutrient boost to your meal.
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Chilled Tropical Sangria: A fruity, chilled drink made with sangria will bring a touch of the Caribbean right to your table, perfectly complementing the dish.
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Coconut Flan: End the meal on a sweet note; this silky dessert offers a light tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of mofongo.
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Corn and Cheese Arepas: These stuffed corn cakes bring a thrilling flavor profile, making them a delightful addition to your meal.
Expand your dining experience with a selection of these options, turning your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo into a truly memorable feast!
Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
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Plantain Selection: Use green or slightly yellow plantains for the best texture; overly ripe ones will make the mofongo too sweet.
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Cook Shrimp Perfectly: Don’t cook the shrimp too long! They can become tough; just until pink and opaque ensures tenderness.
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Adjust Garlic Flavor: Customize the garlic intensity by adjusting the quantity; roasting garlic can mellow its sharpness, offering a different flavor profile.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the mofongo base in advance but cook the shrimp just before serving to maintain that fresh, delicious taste.
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Storage Tips: Mofongo can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in advance is a wonderful way to save time during busy weeknights! You can make the mofongo base—mashed plantains mixed with garlic and oil—up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. When ready to serve, reheat the mofongo gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm, then prepare the garlic shrimp fresh. Cooking the shrimp takes just 3–4 minutes and will ensure they remain tender and full of flavor. This method allows you to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
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Fridge: Store any leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the plain mofongo without the shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
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Reheating: When reheating, add a little olive oil or butter for extra richness. Avoid microwaving for too long to preserve the creamy texture of the mashed plantains.
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Serving Fresh: While you can store leftovers, for the best experience, enjoy your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo fresh and hot from the kitchen to savor the flavors at their peak!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe FAQs
What type of plantains should I use for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, select green or slightly yellow plantains. Avoid overly ripe ones, as they can turn your mofongo too sweet instead of savory.
How can I store leftovers of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
I recommend storing any leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Very! To freeze your mofongo, do so without the shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat. Just remember: do not freeze the shrimp, as they can become tough after thawing.
What should I do if my shrimp are overcooked?
If you find that your shrimp have become tough, there’s unfortunately not much you can do to reclaim their tenderness. For the future, remember to cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—this typically takes 3-4 minutes per side. Keeping a close watch while cooking will help you avoid that overcooked texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Definitely! This dish can easily be adapted to fit vegetarian or gluten-free diets. You can substitute shrimp with chicken or veggies, and ensure that any added sauces or ingredients are gluten-free. Also, be mindful of those with allergies—especially to seafood or garlic, as they are key components in this flavorful dish.
Can I add other ingredients to my Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
The more the merrier! You can customize your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo by adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. Cheese, such as Manchego or Parmesan, can also enrich your dish, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper adds an exciting kick!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: A Comforting Puerto Rican Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and slice the plantains into 1–2 inch pieces. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 10–15 minutes, or fry until golden brown.
- In a mortar and pestle, mix the cooked plantains with minced garlic, olive oil, and optional chicharrón. Mash until smooth yet slightly chunky. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp. Season and cook until pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Mold the mofongo into bowls or shape onto plates. Top with garlic shrimp and drizzle pan juices over the dish.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, and serve immediately.