As I took my first bite of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, I was transported to a cozy Puerto Rican kitchen filled with the sizzling sounds of perfectly fried plantains and the warm aroma of garlic wafting through the air. This beloved comfort dish combines the crispy goodness of plantains with succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Not only is it a quick prep that will impress your friends and family, but it also doubles as a gluten-free delight if you use suitable broth! The unforgettable blend of textures and flavors makes this recipe a must-try for anyone serious about bringing homemade meals back to the table. Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with this flavorful twist on tradition?

Why is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: This dish marries succulent shrimp with the rich essence of garlic, creating a sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Comforting Textures: Experience the crispy plantains, perfectly fried until golden, paired with soft, creamy interior that melts in your mouth.

Quick and Easy: In just a few simple steps, you can serve gourmet flavor at home—perfect for busy weeknights or a memorable dinner party!

Versatile Dish: Customize it with different proteins or veggies for a meal that suits your tastes—chicken or tofu make excellent substitutes.

Cultural Heritage: Enjoying this dish is like taking a culinary journey to Puerto Rico, connecting with its vibrant food culture.

For an added garlic kick, explore our delicious Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup or the tangy delights in Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce.

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Ingredients

For the Mofongo Base
• Plantains – Provide structure and a creamy texture when mashed; use yellow-green plantains for the best flavor.
• Olive Oil – Adds healthy fats and aids in frying plantains; can substitute with vegetable oil if desired.
• Butter – Enhances richness and flavor while sautéing garlic and shrimp; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option.

For the Garlic Shrimp Topping
• Shrimp – The main protein that adds a rich, oceanic flavor; be sure they’re peeled and deveined for convenience.
• Garlic – The key flavor component that gives the dish its signature taste; fresh garlic is recommended for the best aroma.
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth to the shrimp sauce; substitute with vegetable broth for a gluten-free friendly option.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Paprika – Adds a smoky note and color; smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile.
• Fresh Cilantro – Provides a fresh and bright finish; parsley can be used as a substitute if cilantro isn’t available.
• Lime Juice – Acidity helps balance flavors and adds freshness; freshly squeezed is always best.
• Crumbled Bacon (optional) – Adds a smoky, salty crunch; omit for a lighter dish or vegetarian version.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Step 1: Prepare Plantains
Begin by peeling two yellow-green plantains and slicing them into 1-inch thick pieces. This ensures even frying and thePerfect texture for your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo. Set them aside and grab your favorite frying pan to get ready for crispy deliciousness!

Step 2: Fry Plantains
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm up for about 3 minutes. Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil, frying them for 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil, providing a perfect base for your dish.

Step 3: Make Garlic Shrimp
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and melt 2 tablespoons of butter along with a teaspoon of olive oil. Add 4 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute). This rich aroma will elevate your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, infusing it with garlicky goodness as you prepare for the next step.

Step 4: Add Shrimp
Season 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Make sure not to overcook them, as this will ruin their tender texture, key to the dish.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 2 minutes. This step allows the flavors of the garlic shrimp to deepen. Just before removing from heat, mix in the juice of half a lime and approximately ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro for that vibrant finish.

Step 6: Mash Plantains
In a mixing bowl, take the fried plantains and mash them using a fork or a potato masher until smooth, but still slightly chunky for texture. If you want to mingle flavors, you can mix in crumbled bacon at this point. Shape the mashed mixture into a dome or bowl shape—this is the heart of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

Step 7: Shape Mofongo
Carefully mold the mashed plantains into your desired shape, using a sturdy bowl or mold if you prefer a perfect presentation. Take your time to create a beautiful dome that can cradle the delicious shrimp mixture on top, embodying the essence of this Puerto Rican comfort dish.

Step 8: Serve
Place the shaped mofongo on a plate and generously spoon the garlic shrimp mixture over the top, letting the sauce drizzle down the sides. You can squeeze a bit more lime juice over it for an extra kick. Your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is now beautifully presented and ready to share with family and friends—dive into that comforting deliciousness!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This preserves the flavors while maintaining the dish’s delightful textures.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp separately from the mofongo in airtight containers for up to 1 month. This prevents texture changes during thawing.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm the mofongo in a skillet with a bit of oil to restore its crispy texture. Sauté the shrimp on low heat until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes.

Freshness Note: Mofongo is best enjoyed fresh; however, proper storage can keep the flavors intact, making it a wonderful meal to savor later!

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and adapt it to your taste buds while still savoring that divine comfort food experience!

Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a hearty variation that still packs flavor.
Vegan Delight: Replace butter with vegan butter and chicken broth with vegetable broth for a plant-based-friendly option.
Hearty Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or onions with the shrimp for added color and nutrients, enhancing the dish’s texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to amp up the heat for a zesty twist.
Cheesy Flavor: Stir in some crumbled feta or aged cheddar cheese to the mashed plantains for a rich, creamy finish.
Fruit Fusion: Top your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with diced pineapple or mango for a refreshing fruity interplay that harmonizes beautifully with the savory shrimp.
Herb Variants: Switch out cilantro for basil or parsley, depending on your preference, to change the dish’s aromatic profile.

For more delightful dishes that celebrate garlic, try our Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles or get cozy with a warm bowl of Healthy Garlic Parmesan chicken pasta. Customize to your heart’s content, and enjoy every bite!

Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

• Choose Ripe Plantains: Using yellow-green plantains is essential for a creamy texture; unripe ones can lead to a starchy dish.

• Perfect Shrimp Cooking: Carefully watch your shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque without becoming rubbery. Stir frequently for even cooking.

• Flavor Depth: For an extra punch, consider adding a dash of white wine to the shrimp before simmering; it elevates the sauce’s flavor.

• Consistent Mashing: Aim for a slightly chunky mash of plantains for the best texture; over-mashing can lead to a gluey consistency.

• Mold Your Mofongo: Use a sturdy bowl to shape the mofongo for a perfect presentation—this makes serving even more impressive!

• Fresh Ingredients Recommended: Always choose fresh garlic and herbs to amplify the vibrant flavors in your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

Make Ahead Options

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish with minimal effort on busy nights! You can fry the plantains and mash them up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain their texture. Additionally, the garlic shrimp mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the shrimp mixture on the stove over low heat until warmed through. For the mashed plantains, give them a quick sauté in a little oil before shaping and serving, ensuring they are just as delicious and crispy as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement the comforting flavors and textures of this savory dish.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, vibrant salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette cuts through the richness, balancing each bite.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a tender crunch and a fresh pop of color, enhancing the overall texture of your plate.
Grilled Veggies: Caramelized seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the garlic sauce.
Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread offers a comforting base, perfect for soaking up delicious garlic shrimp sauce left on your plate.
Tropical Fruit Salsa: A refreshing salsa of mango and pineapple adds a tangy sweetness, creating an exciting contrast to the savory flavor of the mofongo.
Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice introduces a subtle sweetness and complements both the shrimp and the plantain base, enhancing the meal’s tropical vibes.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled sparkling wine pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the dish with refreshing acidity.
Flan for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with a creamy, custardy flan. Its smooth texture contrasts nicely with the mofongo’s heartiness.

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe FAQs

What type of plantains should I use for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and creamy texture, choose yellow-green plantains. They should be firm and slightly ripe; avoid any that are overly dark or have too many dark spots, as this indicates overripeness.

How should I store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Very simply! Store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet with a touch of oil to help restore the crispy texture of the mofongo.

Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Yes, you can! To freeze, it’s best to store the mofongo and shrimp separately in airtight containers. The mofongo can last for up to 1 month in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet, adding oil to bring back its delicious crispiness.

What if the shrimp turns rubbery while cooking?
Avoiding rubbery shrimp is very important! To prevent this, cook shrimp until they just turn pink and opaque, usually about 3-4 minutes. Stir them frequently for even cooking; if they become overcooked, they will lose their tender texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Certainly! If you’re serving this dish to someone with seafood allergies, you can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu. Additionally, if you’re gluten-sensitive, make sure to use gluten-free broth to keep the dish safe for your dietary needs.