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.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and shrimp creates a mouthwatering dish that bursts with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans for a delightful meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo impresses everyone at the table.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, making it an ideal choice for cozy nights in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mortar and pestle (or pilón)
• Skillet
• Pot for boiling
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mortar and pestle: Essential for mashing plantains perfectly, giving you that traditional texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking shrimp quickly while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Pot for boiling: Necessary for tenderizing plantains to achieve optimal consistency before mashing.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Mofongo

• 4 green or slightly yellow plantains
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1/4 cup beef 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

Garnish and Serving

• Optional: paprika or fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges
• Sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Step 1: Prepare Plantains

Boil the plantains until they are tender. This typically takes about 10–15 minutes. Alternatively, you can fry them for added flavor.

Step 2: Mash Mofongo

Use a mortar and pestle (or pilón) to mash the boiled plantains together with minced garlic, olive oil (or butter), and optional chicharrón. Season generously with salt and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Cook Garlic Shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, add butter or olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Then add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque. This should take about 3–4 minutes on each side.

Step 4: Assemble Dish

Once cooked, mold the mofongo into bowls or plates. Top generously with the garlic shrimp and drizzle some of the pan juices over everything for added moisture.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish your dish with fresh cilantro or sprinkle paprika on top if desired. Serve immediately alongside lime wedges and your choice of sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans for an unforgettable meal.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Serving Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is an opportunity to showcase its vibrant flavors and textures. This dish can be enhanced with various accompaniments that complement its bold taste, making each meal memorable.

With Fresh Sides

• Sautéed Vegetables: Lightly sauté seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to add color and crunch.
• Puerto Rican Rice and Beans: A classic pairing that adds heartiness, this dish brings a comforting balance to the shrimp mofongo.
• Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices with lime juice provide a refreshing contrast to the garlicky shrimp.

Garnishing Options

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and added flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for guests to squeeze over their dish, enhancing the overall taste.
• Paprika Dusting: A light sprinkle of paprika not only adds color but also a subtle smoky flavor.

How to Perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Creating the perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Garlic Flavor: Always use fresh garlic for a strong, aromatic presence that enhances the dish’s essence.
• Optimal Plantain Ripeness: Choose green or slightly yellow plantains for the best texture; they should be firm yet ripe enough for mashing.
• Temperature Control: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding shrimp; this helps them cook evenly and develop a nice sear.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper while cooking. Seasoning at each step builds layers of flavor.
• Use Quality Oil: Opt for high-quality olive oil or butter for frying and mashing to enrich the overall taste of the mofongo.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Maduros (Fried Sweet Plantains): Sweet, caramelized plantains that offer a delightful contrast in flavor.
2. Tostones (Twice-Fried Green Plantains): Crispy and savory, these fried plantains add texture alongside the creamy mofongo.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix with beans, corn, and lime offers a zesty complement to the rich main dish.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall dining experience.
5. Guacamole Dip: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips provides an excellent appetizer before diving into the main course.
6. Coconut Rice: Fragrant coconut rice pairs well with shrimp, adding tropical notes that harmonize beautifully with Puerto Rican cuisine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo truly shine. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking Plantains: Ensure you don’t overcook the plantains, as this can make them mushy. Boil until just tender, about 10–15 minutes.
• Skipping the Garlic: Garlic is key to flavor. Don’t skip it or use too little; use the recommended amount for that authentic taste.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Underseasoning can lead to bland mofongo. Be generous with salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Using Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp yield better texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw them properly before cooking.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges elevate the dish. Don’t skip these final touches for an impressive presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

What is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a Puerto Rican dish combining crispy mashed plantains with succulent garlic shrimp, creating a comforting meal full of flavor.

Can I make Mofongo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mofongo mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the garlic shrimp fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What are some variations of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

You can customize your mofongo by adding different proteins like chicken or turkey or incorporating vegetables into the mix for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I ensure my plantains mash well?

Make sure your plantains are cooked just right—not too soft—to ensure they mash easily while retaining some texture.

Is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo spicy?

The recipe is not inherently spicy but can be adjusted by adding spices like cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if desired.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or sides, such as sautéed vegetables or beans, to suit your taste! Don’t miss out on this flavorful Puerto Rican classic!