Puerto Rican cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich culinary heritage. Among its standout dishes, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo shines as a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, crispy fried plantains, and garlicky seasoning. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, blending textures and tastes that tell the story of Puerto Rico’s culinary culture. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests with a Caribbean feast, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo delivers a wow factor with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Mofongo:

4 green plantains, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 slices bacon, diced (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 cup olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Optional Extras & Sides:

Chicken or vegetable broth (to moisten mofongo if desired)
Avocado slices
Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Plantains:

Peel and cut plantains into 1-inch chunks.
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Fry plantain chunks until golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 2 – Make the Mofongo:
4. In a mortar and pestle (or a large bowl with a sturdy spoon), mash fried plantains with minced garlic and bacon pieces (if using).
5. Gradually add olive oil or butter while mashing until the mixture is cohesive but still textured. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Shape the mofongo into small mounds or balls and set aside on a serving plate.

Step 3 – Cook the Garlic Shrimp:
7. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
8. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
9. Add shrimp, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Sauté until shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes.
10. Squeeze lime juice over the shrimp and stir to coat. Remove from heat.

Step 4 – Serve:
11. Spoon the garlic shrimp on top of each mofongo mound.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with optional avocado slices or lime wedges.

Tips for Perfect Mofongo

Choose the Right Plantains: Green plantains provide the ideal texture for mashing; overripe plantains make the mofongo too sweet.
Don’t Skip the Garlic: Garlic is essential to achieve authentic flavor. Roasted garlic can be substituted for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Consistency: Mofongo should be firm enough to hold shape but soft enough to mash with a fork. Adjust with a bit of broth if needed.
Shrimp Size Matters: Large shrimp provide a satisfying bite and visual appeal.

Variations

Chicken Mofongo: Substitute shrimp with sautéed chicken pieces for a hearty twist.
Vegetarian Mofongo: Use mushrooms, zucchini, or tempeh sautéed with garlic and olive oil.
Cheesy Mofongo: Fold in grated cheese like mozzarella or Parmesan into the plantains for extra creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo pairs beautifully with:

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Fresh tropical fruit salad for a refreshing balance.
Light side salad with citrus vinaigrette.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Origins: Mofongo originated from West African fufu, adapted in Puerto Rico using local plantains.
Street Food Favorite: In Puerto Rico, mofongo is a common dish at roadside eateries and family gatherings.
Variability: Every cook has their version, from spicy seafood to simple pork mofongo. Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a modern favorite combining seafood with tradition.