Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Name: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 4 green or slightly yellow plantains; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: February 28, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, shrimp, and plantains creates a sensational taste that is truly irresistible.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be made in under an hour.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, beans, or sautéed vegetables to create your perfect plate.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo fits right in.
Satisfying Comfort Food: The hearty nature of mofongo ensures that it’s filling and comforting for all.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo effectively, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mortar and pestle (or pilón)
Skillet
Pot for boiling
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Mortar and pestle: Essential for mashing the plantains smoothly while incorporating garlic and oil for flavor.
Skillet: Allows you to sauté the shrimp evenly, ensuring they are cooked to perfection.
Pot for boiling: Ideal for tenderizing plantains before mashing them into mofongo.

Ingredients

For the Mofongo

4 green or slightly yellow plantains
4 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter
1/4 cup beef cracklings (chicharrón), optional
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Shrimp

1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter or olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

Paprika or fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges
Sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Step 1: Prepare Plantains

Peel and cut the plantains into 1–2 inch pieces.
Boil them in salted water until tender (about 10–15 minutes) or fry them if you prefer extra flavor.

Step 2: Mash Mofongo

Use a mortar and pestle (or pilón) to mash the boiled plantains along with minced garlic, olive oil, and optional chicharrón.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste until well combined.

Step 3: Cook Garlic Shrimp

In a skillet, heat either butter or olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, season with salt and pepper, then cook until pink and opaque (about 3–4 minutes per side).

Step 4: Assemble Dish

Mold the mashed mofongo into bowls or on plates.
Top each serving with the cooked garlic shrimp.
Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro or sprinkle paprika if desired.
Serve immediately alongside lime wedges for added zest!

Enjoy your delightful creation of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic!

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its delicious flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement your meal.

With Sautéed Vegetables

Pair the mofongo with seasonal sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a colorful and nutritious side.

Over Puerto Rican Rice and Beans

Serve the mofongo alongside traditional rice and beans for a complete meal that captures the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine.

Garnished with Fresh Cilantro

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top to add a burst of color and freshness, elevating the dish’s presentation.

Drizzled with Lime Juice

Offer lime wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh juice over their mofongo for a zesty kick that enhances the flavors.

As an Appetizer

Mold small portions into balls and serve them as bite-sized appetizers, perfect for parties or gatherings.

With a Side of Avocado Salad

A refreshing avocado salad pairs well, balancing the richness of the garlic shrimp mofongo with creamy texture and healthy fats.

How to Perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

To ensure your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a hit every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Ripe Plantains: Choose plantains that are green or just slightly yellow for the best texture when mashing.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor balance in both the mofongo and shrimp.
Cook Shrimp Properly: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be pink and opaque but still tender. This ensures a juicy bite.
Incorporate Broth: For extra flavor in your mofongo, consider adding some broth while mashing. It enriches the taste without making it too wet.
Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to add other herbs like parsley or oregano to your garlic shrimp for added depth of flavor.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo right after preparation; this keeps it crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

When enjoying Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

Tostones (Fried Green Plantains)
These twice-fried plantains add crunch and can be dipped in garlic sauce or mojo for extra flavor.
Moro Rice
A mix of rice and beans cooked together creates a hearty dish that’s flavorful and filling alongside mofongo.
Crispy Salad
A light salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of mofongo.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn grilled to perfection offers a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness when served with savory dishes like mofongo.
Guacamole
Creamy guacamole provides a rich dip that complements the garlicky shrimp beautifully while adding healthy fats.
Plantain Chips
Crispy chips made from ripe plantains offer an enjoyable crunch that pairs well with dips or as a standalone snack alongside your main dish.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes offsets the savory elements of garlic shrimp mofongo for a balanced meal.
Puerto Rican Salad (Ensalada Criolla)
A traditional salad featuring fresh vegetables like lettuce, radishes, and olives adds brightness and crunch to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder the dish’s flavor and texture.

Not Using Ripe Plantains: Unripe plantains can lead to a bitter taste. Ensure your plantains are just ripe enough for sweetness without being overly soft.
Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can result in rubbery texture. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season properly can make the dish bland. Use salt, pepper, and optional spices generously during both cooking stages.
Inadequate Mashing Technique: Not mashing the plantains well enough can lead to a chunky mofongo. Use a mortar and pestle or pilón for an even consistency.
Ignoring Garnishes: Failing to add garnishes like cilantro or lime can diminish visual appeal and flavor. Always garnish before serving for a fresh touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Portion the mofongo into freezer-safe containers or bags.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months; ensure all air is removed from bags.

Reheating Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot throughout.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

What is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish featuring mashed plantains mixed with garlic and topped with sautéed shrimp.

Can I customize the shrimp?

Absolutely! You can swap shrimp for other seafood like scallops or even chicken for different flavors.

How do I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and use vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms instead.

What sides go well with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Serve it alongside sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo offers an exciting mix of flavors that captures the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences—whether you choose different proteins or add extra spices. We encourage you to try this recipe and experience its comforting taste!

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