When you want a meal that’s bold, hearty, and packed with flavor, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a must-try. This Puerto Rican classic features mashed fried plantains mixed with garlic and crispy bits, shaped into a mound, and topped with juicy shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic sauce.
Unlike plain mashed sides, mofongo is deeply savory with a unique texture—crispy, tender, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for special dinners, weekend cooking, or anytime you want a comforting dish that feels restaurant-worthy at home.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Mofongo
- 3 green plantains, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced (or crushed)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) warm chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup (60g) cooked bacon bits or crispy turkey bacon pieces (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Garlic Shrimp
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth or seafood stock
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: About 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Peel plantains and cut into chunks. Soak in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry (helps crisping).
Step 2: Fry the Plantains
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry plantain pieces in batches until golden and tender, about 5–7 minutes.
Drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Mash the Mofongo Base
In a large mortar and pestle (or sturdy bowl), mash fried plantains with garlic, bacon bits (if using), olive oil/butter, salt, and pepper.
Add warm broth a little at a time until you get a moist, moldable mash—chunky but cohesive.
Step 4: Shape the Mofongo
Divide the plantain mash into 4 portions and shape into mounds or pack into small bowls and invert onto plates.
Step 5: Cook the Garlic Shrimp
In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil/butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook 2–3 minutes, flipping once, until pink and cooked through.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
Add broth and lemon juice to the skillet. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in parsley.
Step 7: Serve
Spoon garlic shrimp and sauce over each mofongo mound. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple side salad or sliced avocado for freshness.
- Add sautéed peppers and onions for extra color and flavor.
- Serve with extra broth on the side if you like it “saucier.”
- Pair with rice and beans for a fuller meal.
- Garnish with extra parsley, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of flaky salt.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 50 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 6 grams |
| Sodium | 620 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Shrimp is lean, high-protein, and cooks quickly for an easy main dish.
- Green plantains provide filling carbs and fiber for sustained energy.
- Garlic and parsley add flavor without needing heavy sauces.
Tips for Perfect Mofongo
- Use green plantains (not ripe) for authentic texture and savory flavor.
- Pat plantains dry before frying to reduce oil splatter.
- Mash while plantains are still warm for the best consistency.
- Add broth gradually—too much can make the mofongo soggy.
- If you don’t have a mortar, use a sturdy bowl and potato masher.
Variations to Try
- Chicken Mofongo: Top with garlic sautéed chicken instead of shrimp.
- Garlic Butter Mofongo: Use butter instead of oil for richer flavor.
- Seafood Mix: Add scallops or chunks of white fish along with shrimp.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip bacon and top with sautéed mushrooms or veggies.
- Spicy Mofongo: Add hot sauce or diced chili to the shrimp sauce.
This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a bold, comforting dish that brings big Puerto Rican flavor to your kitchen. With crispy-tender plantain mash and juicy shrimp in a garlicky sauce, it’s hearty, satisfying, and impressive without being complicated.
Whether you make it for a special dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe guarantees a savory, garlicky bite every time.
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