Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and shrimp with the unique texture of mofongo. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. You’ll love how the savory shrimp pairs with the creamy mashed plantains, making it a meal that stands out on any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-Packed: This dish bursts with flavor from garlic, spices, and fresh lime juice.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can create this impressive meal without hassle.
- Versatile Meal: Suitable for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
- Health-Conscious Option: Packed with protein and nutrients from shrimp and plantains.
- Satisfying Texture: The combination of crispy, fried plantains and juicy shrimp creates a delightful mouthfeel.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Potato masher or fork
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for frying plantains evenly and sautéing shrimp without overcrowding.
- Potato masher or fork: Helps achieve the perfect consistency when mashing plantains.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing plantains and preparing ingredients.

Ingredients
For the Mofongo Base
- 2 large green plantains
For the Garlic Shrimp Topping
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Additions
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Fresh Flavor Enhancer
- Juice of 1 lime
Optional Ingredient
- ¼ cup crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon (optional)
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
- Peel the plantains using a knife to remove the skin completely.
- Cut them into 1-inch slices to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Fry the Plantains
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Fry the plantain slices until they are golden brown and tender, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove fried plantains from the skillet and drain them on paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Shrimp
- In the same skillet used for frying, add butter along with olive oil.
- Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add Shrimp
- Place shrimp in the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Cook until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Broth
- Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes before stirring in lime juice and cilantro; then remove from heat.
Step 6: Mash Plantains
- In a large mixing bowl, mash fried plantains using a fork or potato masher until smooth.
- If desired, mix in crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon for extra flavor.
Step 7: Form Mofongo
- Shape your mashed plantains into a dome or bowl using your hands or a mold.
Step 8: Serve with Shrimp
- Place mofongo on a plate and generously top it with the garlic shrimp mixture.
- Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top for added flavor.
With these clear steps, you’ll have a beautiful plate of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo ready to impress! Enjoy this incredible recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 350 kcal, Protein: 25g, Fat: 10g
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic shrimp with the comforting texture of mashed plantains. This dish can be served in various ways to enhance its presentation and flavor.
Creative Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve with Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can elevate the flavors and add a zesty kick.
- Pair with Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the dish well and adds healthy fats.
- Create a Layered Dish: Arrange the mofongo in layers, alternating between mashed plantains and the garlic shrimp mixture for visual appeal.
- Use Colorful Bowls: Serve in vibrant bowls or plates to make your presentation pop and entice your guests.
How to Perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
Perfecting your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for an incredible dish every time.
- Bold Flavoring: Always taste your garlic shrimp mixture before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed for optimal flavor.
- Proper Frying Technique: Ensure the oil is hot enough when frying plantains. This prevents sogginess and promotes a golden crust.
- Mash Consistently: When mashing plantains, aim for a smooth yet slightly chunky texture for added character.
- Add Texture Variations: If desired, mix in crumbled turkey bacon while mashing for extra texture and flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the garlic shrimp to sit off heat for a few minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld nicely.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
To complement your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, consider these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.
- Crispy Fried Yucca: Deep-fried yucca is crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, making it a perfect pairing with mofongo.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, pineapple, and papaya adds sweetness and balances savory flavors.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans provide crunch and color, making them an appealing side dish option.
- Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice offers a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory garlic shrimp.
- Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with lime butter brings summer vibes to your table alongside mofongo.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed black bean salad provides hearty nutrition while complementing the seafood flavors.
- Spicy Plantain Chips: For an extra crunch, serve homemade spicy plantain chips as an appetizer or snack alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo to the next level. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not ripening plantains properly: Ensure your plantains are yellow and slightly soft for the best flavor. Green plantains will be too starchy and tough.
- Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking leads to a rubbery texture. Cook them just until pink and opaque for the best results.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer, from the shrimp to the plantains. This enhances the flavor profile significantly.
- Using cold broth: Always use warm chicken broth when adding it to the pan. Cold broth can lower the cooking temperature and affect the shrimp’s cooking time.
- Not mashing plantains enough: Ensure you mash the plantains well for a creamy texture. Insufficient mashing can result in a chunky consistency.
- Ignoring presentation: Mofongo is as much about appearance as taste. Take time to shape it nicely before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Separate the shrimp from the mofongo to maintain texture.
Freezing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in containers.
Reheating Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat; add a splash of chicken broth and stir until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about our Garlic Shrimp Mofongo recipe:
What can I substitute for shrimp in Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
You can use chicken or firm tofu if you prefer an alternative protein source.
Can I make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare components separately and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.
How do I enhance the flavor of my Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Consider adding spices like cumin or chili flakes, or even incorporating diced vegetables into your garlic shrimp mix.
Is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Can I make this vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Simply replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is an incredible dish that merges creamy plantains with succulent shrimp, creating a delightful experience. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors easily, whether by changing proteins or experimenting with spices. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a vibrant dish that harmoniously blends the rich flavors of garlic-infused shrimp with creamy, mashed plantains. It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal that highlights the best of Puerto Rican cuisine. The crispy exterior of fried plantains complements the juicy shrimp, creating a delightful balance in every bite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences. Impress your loved ones with this incredible culinary experience that’s sure to become a household favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients
- 2 large green plantains
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and slice the plantains into 1-inch pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, fry plantain slices until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about a minute).
- Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink (3-4 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth; simmer for 2 minutes before stirring in lime juice.
- Mash the fried plantains in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Shape the mashed plantains into a dome and top with shrimp mixture before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
