Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Name: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 3 green plantains, peeled and cut into chunks; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup pork cracklings (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey

Discover the rich and flavorful world of Puerto Rican cuisine with this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo recipe. It's a delightful combination of perfectly seasoned garlic shrimp served over a mound of crispy plantain mash, making it a must-try dish for seafood lovers.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-11T19:34:05.434Z

This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo combines the delightful flavors of garlic and shrimp with the comforting texture of mofongo, a traditional Puerto Rican dish made from fried green plantains. It's a crowd-pleaser that brings a taste of the Caribbean right to your kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor that enhances the shrimp
Crispy plantains with a creamy center
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests

      

The Essence of Mofongo

Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish that showcases the versatility of plantains. This beloved staple is made by mashing fried green plantains, resulting in a delightful texture that perfectly complements a variety of toppings. The dish's roots can be traced back to African cuisine, where similar methods of preparing starchy vegetables are common. It has since evolved into a culinary favorite across the Caribbean and beyond, often served with savory meats, seafood, or vegetables.

The beauty of mofongo lies in its adaptability. While the classic version is often served with garlic and pork cracklings, you can customize it to suit your taste. Adding different spices or herbs can elevate the flavor profile, making it a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo recipe is a perfect example, marrying the rich, garlicky shrimp with the creamy, crispy mofongo base.

Cooking with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is vital in creating a dish that truly shines. For this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, selecting high-quality shrimp and ripe plantains elevates the dish to new heights. Fresh shrimp should have a firm texture and a mild ocean scent. Avoid any shrimp that smells overly fishy or has a slimy texture, as this indicates they are not fresh.

Green plantains are essential for mofongo, as their starchy nature allows them to be mashed into the desired consistency. When choosing plantains, look for ones that are firm and green, as they will yield the best results. Ripe plantains can be too sweet and may alter the intended flavor of your dish. By prioritizing fresh ingredients, you ensure that your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is flavorful and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Garlic Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Mofongo

3 green plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt to taste
1/4 cup pork cracklings (optional)

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Prepare the Plantains

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the plantain chunks and cook for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

Make the Mofongo

In a large bowl, mash the cooked plantains with a fork or a mortar and pestle. Add minced garlic, chicken broth, and salt to taste. Mix until you achieve a thick, chunky consistency.

If using, fold in the pork cracklings.

Cook the Garlic Shrimp

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Stir in the chopped parsley.

Assemble the Dish

To serve, mold the mofongo into a round shape on a plate and top with the garlic shrimp. Drizzle any remaining garlic oil over the top for extra flavor.

Enjoy your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo while it's hot, and savor the flavors of Puerto Rico!

Nutritional Information

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Shrimp is a low-calorie source of protein and is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and selenium. Plantains, on the other hand, provide dietary fiber and important nutrients such as potassium and vitamin C. This dish makes for a fulfilling meal that supports a balanced diet, ensuring you can enjoy great flavors while nourishing your body.

However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes, especially with the addition of pork cracklings, which can increase the calorie content. Adjust the quantities to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying this flavorful dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers from your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, storing them properly can help maintain the dish's quality. Place the shrimp and mofongo in separate airtight containers to prevent the mofongo from becoming soggy. Refrigerate and consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

When reheating, it's best to use a skillet over medium heat to warm the shrimp, as this will help retain their juiciness. For the mofongo, you can add a splash of chicken broth while reheating to restore its creamy texture. Avoid using a microwave, as this can lead to uneven heating and a less satisfying result.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for plantains?

If you cannot find green plantains, you may use mashed potatoes as a substitute, though the flavor and texture will differ.

→ Is mofongo gluten-free?

Yes, mofongo is naturally gluten-free as it is made from plantains.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the mofongo and shrimp separately and then combine them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.