The aroma of sizzling garlic and tender shrimp can transform any kitchen into a bustling restaurant—at least, that’s how it feels when I prepare my Garlic Shrimp Mofongo. This beloved Puerto Rican dish marries crispy fried plantains with juicy, garlic-infused shrimp, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Not only is this recipe a comforting haven for those weary of fast food, but it also allows you to impress guests with minimal fuss while packing a nutritious punch. Whether you’re looking for a cozy night in or a standout dish for your next gathering, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is sure to win hearts. Curious about the secrets behind crafting this delightful masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

Why is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo a must-try?

Comforting Delight: The warm, starchy plantains paired with succulent shrimp create a dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
Simplified Prep: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a stunning meal ready in under an hour—great for busy evenings!
Versatile Flavors: This dish can easily adapt to your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer adding veggies or different proteins.
Nutritious Option: A gluten-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. Perfect for those who enjoy homemade meals but are tired of fast food!
Don’t forget to pair it with a crisp salad or complement your meal with Garlic Butter Steak for a truly delightful experience!

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Ingredients

For the Mofongo
• Plantains – The star of the dish, offering a delightful starchy base that can be substituted with green bananas if needed.
• Olive Oil – Essential for frying your plantains and sautéing shrimp; this healthy fat can be swapped for vegetable oil if desired.
• Butter – Adds a luscious richness to the shrimp; for a dairy-free option, use more olive oil.

For the Shrimp Mixture
• Shrimp – Provides lean protein; opt for wild-caught shrimp for enhanced flavor, or use frozen shrimp for budget-friendly options.
• Garlic – The aromatic hero of this dish; fresh garlic is best for maximum taste impact.
• Chicken Broth – Key for making a flavorful sauce; switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Vital seasonings to elevate the dish; adjust to taste for your preferred sodium level.
• Paprika – Adds beautiful color and a smoky note; smoked paprika can take the flavor to a new level.
• Cilantro – Fresh herb that brightens the dish; parsley can be a good alternative if you’re not a cilantro fan.
• Lime Juice – Provides citrusy brightness; lemon juice can work in a pinch.
• Bacon (Optional) – Contributes a delightful smokiness and umami; feel free to omit or use vegan bacon for a vegetarian option.

Whether you’re enjoying this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo solo or sharing it with friends and family, each ingredient plays a special role in creating a heartwarming dish that celebrates comfort food in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Step 1: Prepare Plantains
Start by peeling the plantains and slicing them into 1-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife. This will create the perfect shape for frying. Make sure you have a large skillet ready on the stove, filled with about an inch of olive oil, and heat it over medium-high until shimmering.

Step 2: Fry Plantains
Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil, frying them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready when they are crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Cook Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the butter to melt, then add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden. This garlic aromatics will give your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo its delightful flavor base.

Step 4: Add Shrimp
Next, toss in 1 pound of shrimp that has been seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque. Be mindful not to overcook them, as they should be tender yet slightly firm for the best texture.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet with the shrimp, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice and chopped cilantro, and then set the mixture aside, preserving the rich flavors while you prepare the mofongo.

Step 6: Mash Plantains
In a large mixing bowl, take the fried plantains and mash them with a fork or potato masher until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency. If desired, mix in crumbled bacon for an added smoky flavor. This combination will serve as the starchy foundation of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

Step 7: Mold Mofongo
Once mashed, take the plantain mixture and mold it into a dome or bowl shape using your hands or a bowl to form the traditional mofongo presentation. This step is crucial for giving your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo an appealing shape that will showcase the shrimp beautifully on top.

Step 8: Serve
To serve, place the molded mofongo on a plate and generously spoon the shrimp mixture over the top, ensuring to drizzle the remaining sauce for extra flavor. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired, and enjoy your homemade Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, a true comfort food delight!

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

The perfect side can elevate your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo to an unforgettable meal, enhancing its rich flavors and textures.

Crispy Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance the warmth of the mofongo.
Creamy Avocado Slices: The creaminess of ripe avocado offers a mellow contrast to the garlic shrimp, providing a luscious mouthfeel that complements the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and herbs bring earthiness and vibrant color, harmonizing beautifully with the savory notes of the shrimp.
Mango Salsa: Bright, fruity salsa introduces a sweet zing that pairs wonderfully with the garlic, balancing the richness of the mofongo.
Chilled Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and fruity side enhances the island vibes while offering a delightful contrast in texture to the hearty dish.
Refreshing Piña Colada: Sip on this tropical drink for a fun pairing that echoes the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico.

With these delightful accompaniments, your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo will become a true celebration of flavor and culture!

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Variations

Feel free to explore these fun and easy variations to make your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo even more delightful!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a vibrant veggie twist.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the shrimp mixture for a fiery boost that tantalizes your taste buds. The heat pairs beautifully with the creamy mofongo.
Loaded Mofongo: Mix in crumbled bacon or chorizo for an irresistible smoky flavor that elevates the dish to new heights. The richness of the meat complements the starchy plantains perfectly.
Citrusy Twist: Use fresh lemon juice instead of lime for a brighter, tangy flavor that revitalizes this classic dish. This subtle change can awaken your palate!
Herbaceous Boost: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme in place of cilantro to create a unique flavor profile. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish!

Don’t forget to serve your tasty Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with a side of Garlic Butter Steak for a meal that truly impresses!

Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Perfect Plantain Frying: Ensure oil is hot enough before adding plantains; this guarantees a crispy texture. Remember, undercooked plantains can be mushy!
Shrimp Cooking Time: Cook shrimp until just pink and slightly firm; overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp instead of the succulent bites you want.
Mofongo Molding: Mold your plantains with care. A well-formed dome not only looks appealing but holds the shrimp mixture beautifully on top.
Broth Choice: Opt for a flavorful chicken broth, but if you prefer vegetarian, vegetable broth works perfectly without sacrificing taste.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh cilantro adds brightness, but feel free to substitute with parsley if you’re not a cilantro fan. Just remember to sprinkle generously for that fresh taste!

Make Ahead Options

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is an excellent dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the fried plantains up to 24 hours in advance by frying them as directed, then letting them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp mixture can also be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, ensure that everything is stored separately to keep the mofongo from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the shrimp mixture gently on the stove while you re-mash or warm the plantains briefly in the microwave. This way, you’ll enjoy delightful, restaurant-quality Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Gently reheat the mofongo and shrimp together on low heat to maintain texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the molded mofongo (without shrimp) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo from the freezer, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet until warm, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Avoiding Texture Loss: When reheating, avoid high heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery and the mofongo from drying out.

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my plantains are ripe enough to use?
You want to pick green plantains for this recipe, as they provide the ideal starchiness needed for mofongo. Look for plantains that are firm and have a bright green skin. If your plantains are starting to turn yellow, they can still be used, but they may be a bit sweeter and will have a different texture. Just avoid plantains with dark spots all over, as they are likely overripe and mushy.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed for up to 2 days. When reheating, do it gently over low heat to keep the shrimp from becoming rubbery. If you want to maintain the crispy texture of the mofongo, consider reheating it in a skillet rather than the microwave.

Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo? How?
Definitely! For longer storage, freeze the molded mofongo without the shrimp. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can stay frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

What should I do if my shrimp becomes overcooked?
Very! If you accidentally overcook your shrimp and they turn rubbery, they can be difficult to salvage. However, you can try slicing them thinly and incorporating them into a soup or sauce where they’ll absorb more moisture. For next time, remember to cook shrimp just until they’ve turned pink and slightly firm!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those following a gluten-free diet. If you’re cooking for someone with shellfish allergies, you can easily substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu, and still enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish.

How do I enhance the flavors of my Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Certainly! To elevate the flavors, try adding sautéed bell peppers or onions to the shrimp mixture for more depth. For a spicy kick, diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes can work wonders! Fresh lime juice adds brightness, so don’t skip it—it’s the secret ingredient that amplifies the flavor of your dish.