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Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe

4.4 from 104 reviews

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish featuring mashed fried plantains blended with garlic, olive oil, and optional pork cracklings, topped with savory sautéed garlic shrimp. This hearty and flavorful recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy, garlicky, and tender textures, ideal for a satisfying Caribbean-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Mofongo

  • 4 green or slightly yellow plantains
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 23 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1/4 cup pork cracklings (chicharrón), optional
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

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

To Serve

  • Lime wedges
  • Sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans

Instructions

  1. Prepare Plantains: Peel and cut the plantains into 1–2 inch pieces. Boil them in water until tender, which usually takes between 10 to 15 minutes. For added flavor, you can also fry them instead of boiling.
  2. Mash Mofongo: Using a mortar and pestle (pilón), mash the cooked plantains together with the minced garlic, olive oil or butter, and optional pork cracklings (chicharrón). Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste until well combined and smooth.
  3. Cook Garlic Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  4. Assemble Dish: Mold the mashed mofongo into bowls or plates to form a base. Top generously with the sautéed garlic shrimp. Drizzle any pan juices over the dish to enhance flavor.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Serve immediately with lime wedges and a side of sautéed vegetables or traditional Puerto Rican rice and beans for a complete meal experience.

Notes

  • For an authentic texture, use a pilón (wooden mortar and pestle) to mash the plantains.
  • Frying the plantains instead of boiling will give the mofongo a richer and more robust flavor.
  • Adjust garlic quantity based on your taste preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
  • Pork cracklings add crunch and traditional flavor but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture of the mofongo and shrimp.

Keywords: Mofongo, Garlic Shrimp, Puerto Rican Dish, Plantains, Caribbean Cuisine, Seafood, Traditional Puerto Rican Recipe