Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: A Symphony of Flavor and Comfort

Name: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 medium green plantains, peeled and chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional); Lime wedges (for serving)

There’s something exquisitely comforting about the warmth of a freshly prepared dish that envelops you with its aroma, and Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is one such culinary treasure. This traditional Puerto Rican dish marries the savory flavors of garlic and shrimp with the rich, creamy texture of mashed plantains, creating a masterpiece that dances on your palate while warming your soul. As each bite releases the fragrant notes of garlic and cilantro, it transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean, where every meal is a celebration of life, culture, and familial bonds.

Mofongo is an ideal choice for various occasions—whether it’s a cozy morning brunch, a spirited family gathering on a Sunday afternoon, or a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner. The dish’s versatility ensures it can stand alone as a hearty meal or be complemented by a fresh salad or a vibrant side of grilled vegetables.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 600mg

(Nutrition information is based on data from the USDA FoodData Central.)

Why Make This Recipe

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo captures the heart with its delightful harmony of taste and texture. Each serving is a celebration of the sharp, aromatic goodness of garlic combined with the slight sweetness of plantains, the succulence of shrimp, and the richness of olive oil and butter. This dish is uncomplicated to prepare, making it accessible even for novice cooks. It’s perfect for special occasions or an intimate dinner, and it’s sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Ingredients

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 medium green plantains, peeled and chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped plantains and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat. Mash the plantains in the pot with a fork or potato masher, adding the chicken broth gradually until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Stir in the cooked shrimp and butter to the mashed plantains until well combined.
Serve in a mold or bowl, and garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an added zing.

Cooking Tips

Avoid overcrowding the pot when sautéing the shrimp, as this can cause them to steam rather than sear.
To test the doneness of the shrimp, they should be opaque and no longer translucent.

How to Serve

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo can be enjoyed on its own, but why not elevate it further? Try serving it with a drizzle of melted butter, a side of tangy pickled vegetables, or toasted Cuban bread smeared with garlic aioli. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or a refreshing mojito.

How to Store

To store, allow the mofongo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Expert Tips

For an enhanced taste, add a splash of white wine to the sautéing shrimp just before they finish cooking.
Use ripe plantains for a sweeter flavor or green plantains for a slightly savory result.
Experiment with different herbs like parsley or green onions for a twist on the classic recipe.

Delicious Variations

Vegan Version: Swap the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spicy Option: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing for a kick of heat.
Stuffed Mofongo: Hollow out an avocado and fill it with mofongo for a creative twist on presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly fine! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

What if my plantains are too hard to mash?
Make sure to cook the plantains until they are golden and soft; if necessary, cook them longer until they are tender.

Can I make this in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and mash the plantains in advance. Combine just before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a symphonic celebration of flavor that invites you to gather with loved ones and share a meal filled with warmth and joy. With its simple preparation and delightful taste, this dish is bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen. We invite you to try this recipe, make it your own, and share your feedback or any delicious variations you create! Happy cooking!