Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic! This dish features crispy, mashed plantains paired with succulent garlic shrimp, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of textures and flavors creates a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The garlicky shrimp enhances the naturally sweet plantains, creating a delightful balance.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe can be made in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own or pair it with sautéed vegetables or rice and beans for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A hearty dish that appeals to everyone, making it great for gatherings and family dinners.
• Cultural Delight: Enjoy an authentic taste of Puerto Rican cuisine right in your home.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mortar and pestle or pilón: Essential for mashing the plantains to achieve the perfect texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the garlic shrimp evenly and ensuring rich flavor development.
• Pot for boiling: Necessary for cooking the plantains until tender before mashing.

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

To Serve

• 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

1. Peel and cut the plantains into 1–2 inch pieces.
2. Boil in salted water until tender (approximately 10–15 minutes) or fry them for additional flavor.

Step 2: Mash Mofongo

1. Use a mortar and pestle or pilón to mash the boiled plantains with minced garlic and olive oil.
2. If desired, mix in optional chicharrón for added texture.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook Garlic Shrimp

1. Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque (about 3–4 minutes per side).

Step 4: Assemble Dish

1. Mold the mofongo into bowls or plates.
2. Top generously with the cooked garlic shrimp.
3. Drizzle any pan juices over the top for added flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped cilantro or sprinkle paprika if desired.
2. Serve immediately alongside lime wedges and optional sides like sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, bursting with flavor!

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

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is not only a delicious main dish but also a versatile one. Here are some creative ways to serve this flavorful Puerto Rican classic that will impress your guests and enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Green Onions: Add sliced green onions for a mild onion taste and crunch.

Pair with Lime Wedges

• Zesty Touch: Serve lime wedges alongside for squeezing over the dish, adding a tangy brightness that complements the garlic shrimp perfectly.

Add Sautéed Vegetables

• Nutritious Addition: Sauté bell peppers, onions, or zucchini in olive oil for a colorful side that adds nutrients and texture to the meal.

Serve with Rice and Beans

• Caribbean Classic: Offer Puerto Rican rice and beans as a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the mofongo and shrimp.

Create a Platter

• Family Style: Present the mofongo and garlic shrimp on a large platter, allowing everyone to serve themselves, enhancing the communal dining experience.

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

To ensure your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo turns out delicious every time, follow these tips for perfecting this dish.

• Choose Ripe Plantains: Use slightly yellow plantains for a sweeter flavor profile; avoid overly ripe ones as they may become too mushy.
• Cook Shrimp Properly: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to season both the mofongo and shrimp well with salt and pepper to enhance all flavors.
• Use Quality Oil: Opt for high-quality olive oil or butter for sautéing; it makes a significant difference in flavor.
• Experiment with Textures: If desired, add beef cracklings (chicharrón) into the mofongo mixture for added crunch.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the dish right after assembling; mofongo tends to harden if left sitting too long.

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

Complementing your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes to consider:

1. Moro de Guandules: A traditional rice dish made with pigeon peas that adds heartiness and flavor.
2. Tostones: Crispy fried green plantains that provide a crunchy contrast to the soft mofongo.
3. Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad with diced avocado, tomatoes, and onions dressed in lime juice.
4. Fried Sweet Plantains (Maduros): Sweet plantains fried until golden brown offer a delightful sweet contrast.
5. Puerto Rican Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad mixed with peas and carrots creates a comforting side option.
6. Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or collard greens seasoned with garlic adds nutrients without overpowering flavors.
7. Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup packed with spices that pairs beautifully with the richness of garlic shrimp mofongo.
8. Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad mixed with bell peppers and lime juice provides brightness and crunch.

By considering these serving suggestions, perfection tips, and ideal pairings, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience featuring Garlic Shrimp Mofongo!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To create the perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, avoiding common mistakes is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture.

• Using overripe plantains: Overripe plantains can result in a mushy texture. Choose green or slightly yellow plantains for optimal mashing.
• Not seasoning properly: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland mofongo. Always taste your mixture and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic is key to the dish’s flavor. Don’t skimp on it; use fresh minced garlic for the best results.
• Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking shrimp can make them tough. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender.
• Not using enough oil or butter: Insufficient fat can make mofongo dry. Ensure you incorporate enough olive oil or butter during mashing for a creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate shrimp from mofongo if possible to maintain texture.

Reheating Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

What is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic?

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains flavored with garlic and topped with sautéed shrimp.

Can I customize my Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or spices to suit your taste, making it versatile for any occasion.

How do I know when my shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque, usually taking about 3-4 minutes per side depending on their size.

What can I serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

It pairs well with sautéed vegetables, rice, or beans, making it a hearty meal option.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!