As I stood in my kitchen, the spirited scent of garlic and sizzling shrimp wafted through the air, transporting me straight to a sun-soaked Puerto Rican beach. This Mofongo Garlic Shrimp recipe showcases a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, inviting you to savor the unique flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine. With just a quick 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, this dish promises to be a showstopper at your dinner table—a perfect solution for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. Imagine the satisfaction of presenting a vibrant mound of crispy plantains, topped with tender shrimp smothered in a zesty garlic sauce, all while keeping it gluten-free! Are you ready to unleash the flavors of the Caribbean in your home?
Why Is Mofongo Garlic Shrimp a Must-Try?
Authentic, Bold Flavors: This dish brings the vibrant taste of Puerto Rico to your table, elevating your dinner experience.
Quick and Easy: With just an hour from start to finish, you can impress family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen!
Gluten-Free Savory Delight: Mofongo is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions.
Versatile Ingredient Choices: Customize your mofongo with ripe plantains for a sweeter twist or add your favorite spices for extra flavor. You could even explore our delicious Garlic Butter Steak for a contrasting dish!
Total Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is not only tasty but visually stunning, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering or family dinner. Treat yourself to a culinary journey without leaving your home!
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
• Let the flavors guide you!
For the Mofongo
- Green Plantains – The star of the dish, these starchy wonders create a fluffy base for your mofongo. Substitution Note: Ripe plantains impart sweetness if you’re in for a delicious twist.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness when mashing the plantains and sautéing the shrimp. Substitution Note: Vegetable oil works just as well if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
- Garlic – This aromatic ingredient is essential for infusing the shrimp with a robust flavor. No substitutions suggested.
- Butter – Enhances the creamy quality of the sauce, making every bite indulgent. Substitution Note: Opt for olive oil for a lighter touch.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish with its refreshing acidity. No substitutions suggested.
For the Garlic Shrimp
- Shrimp – The main protein that lends a delicate yet bold flavor to the dish. Note: Fresh shrimp is key for the best-tasting garlic shrimp.
- Paprika & Cayenne Pepper – These spices give warmth and a delightful kick to the shrimp dish. Adjust the amount according to your personal spice tolerance.
- White Wine – Elevates the sauce with depth and acidity. Substitution Note: Chicken broth or diluted apple cider vinegar works for those avoiding alcohol.
- Chicken Broth – Adds savory richness to the sauce. Replace with vegetable broth for a completely vegetarian option if desired.
- Fresh Parsley – This herb adds a pop of freshness, making your dish look vibrant. No substitutions suggested.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Introduces a creamy umami element if you choose to use it. Skip this for a dairy-free version.
Embrace the adventure of making Mofongo Garlic Shrimp—it’s a delightful dish that transforms your kitchen into a taste of Puerto Rico!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mofongo Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Plantains
Begin by peeling and chopping the green plantains into 1-inch pieces. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the plantain pieces. Cook them for about 10–12 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, drain the plantains and let them cool slightly—this will make mashing them easier later.
Step 2: Mash Plantains
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained plantains with a generous drizzle of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Using a fork or a potato masher, mash the plantains until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. Set the mashed plantains aside, as they will serve as the comforting base for your Mofongo Garlic Shrimp.
Step 3: Cook Garlic
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic, stirring for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it should be aromatic and golden, enhancing the delicious profile of the garlic shrimp you’ll be preparing next.
Step 4: Sauté Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are coated with the garlicky oil. Season with paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sauté the shrimp for about 3–4 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 5: Prepare Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the butter, allowing it to melt. Then pour in the white wine and chicken broth, stirring frequently. Let the mixture simmer for about 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Finally, stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley for that fresh touch, creating a vibrant sauce for your shrimp.
Step 6: Assemble Mofongo
To create a lovely presentation, take a generous spoonful of the mashed plantains and shape them into a mound in a serving bowl. Carefully place the sautéed shrimp on top of the mofongo, ensuring to drizzle the flavorful sauce over the shrimp, allowing it to coat everything beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Mofongo Garlic Shrimp by sprinkling additional parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness. If desired, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to elevate the dish’s richness. Serve immediately, inviting everyone to dive into this comforting and delicious plate of Puerto Rican delight!
How to Store and Freeze Mofongo Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Mofongo Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to preserve flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and sauce separately from the mofongo for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for a fresh-tasting meal.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the mofongo in a microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture. Heat the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Storage Tips: If preparing ahead, keep the components separate until serving to maintain the quality of each part—this ensures a delicious Mofongo Garlic Shrimp experience!
What to Serve with Mofongo Garlic Shrimp
Experience a culinary adventure that harmonizes the rich, savory notes of this Puerto Rican delight with a variety of tantalizing side dishes.
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Crispy Fried Plantains: These golden bites complement the mofongo beautifully, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture of the mash. Enjoy them sprinkled with a hint of salt for an irresistible snack!
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad, featuring mixed greens and a citrus dressing, brightens your meal with a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the shrimp. Try adding slices of avocado for a creamy element!
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Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic and olive oil, these vibrant green beans provide a textural contrast while echoing the garlicky tones of your shrimp dish—perfect for those who love a burst of flavor.
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Savory Rice: A side of fluffy white or coconut rice absorbs the delightful sauce from your mofongo garlic shrimp, making each bite a perfect harmony of flavors. Coconut rice adds an exciting, sweet backdrop to the savory shrimp.
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Mango Salsa: This vibrant, fruity salsa adds a zesty, sweet twist that elevates the entire dish. The tropical notes pair wonderfully with the garlic and spice, creating a refreshing and lively experience.
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Plantain Chips and Dip: Serve alongside a zesty avocado crema or a roasted red pepper dip, these crispy chips provide a fun crunchy element that guests will enjoy nibbling on between bites of the main dish.
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Chilled White Sangria: For a delightful drink pairing, a chilled glass of white sangria with fresh fruit adds a refreshing sweetness, making it perfect for warm evenings and festive gatherings.
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Flan or Tres Leches Cake: Cap your meal with a traditional dessert like flan or tres leches cake for a rich, creamy finish that is a well-loved pairing in Puerto Rican cuisine. Their sweet, milky flavors contrast beautifully with savory dishes.
Make Ahead Options
These Mofongo Garlic Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mashed plantains up to 24 hours in advance, just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. The garlic shrimp can also be sautéed and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat gently on the stove, ensuring they don’t overcook. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the shrimp and quickly prepare the sauce (adding the lemon juice fresh for optimal brightness). The flavors will meld beautifully, allowing you to enjoy this vibrant dish with minimal effort on busy nights or when entertaining guests!
Expert Tips for Mofongo Garlic Shrimp
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Perfect Plantains: Choose firm green plantains for the best texture; overripe ones are too sweet and won’t give you that classic mofongo flavor.
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Sauté Smart: Keep a close eye on the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned. Burning garlic can create an unpleasant, bitter taste in your shrimp.
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Don’t Overcook: Pay attention to your shrimp while cooking! Remove them just as they turn pink to keep them tender and juicy—overcooked shrimp can quickly become rubbery.
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Balance the Flavors: Taste your sauce before serving. If it needs more brightness, a dash more lemon juice can enhance the overall flavor of your Mofongo Garlic Shrimp dish.
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Variation Opportunity: Feeling adventurous? Spice it up by adding a pinch of fresh thyme or oregano to the shrimp mixture for an extra layer of flavor!
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delightful dish!
- Ripe Plantains: Swap in ripe plantains for a sweeter mofongo variant with a delicious twist.
- Vegetable Oil: Substitute olive oil with vegetable oil for a budget-friendly option while still achieving richness.
- Diced Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes to the sauce for extra sweetness and a splash of color that enhances visual appeal.
- Spice Boost: Introduce additional spices like thyme or oregano for a fragrant and aromatic flavor explosion!
- Butter Alternative: For a lighter sauce, consider using olive oil in place of butter, maintaining that wonderful creaminess.
- Gluten-Free Broth: Use vegetable broth in lieu of chicken broth if you’re aiming for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Heat Adjustment: Customize the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the paprika and cayenne according to your taste preference.
- Skip Dairy: Omit Parmesan cheese to keep this dish completely dairy-free and suitable for all dietary preferences—it’s still incredibly satisfying!
Explore various combinations to create your own unique Mofongo Garlic Shrimp! If you’re intrigued, you can also try my Garlic Herb Roasted veggies as a scrumptious side dish. Bon appétit!
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my plantains are ripe enough for mashing?
Absolutely! For Mofongo, you should choose firm green plantains. They should be slightly hard to the touch, without any dark spots. If you’re looking for a sweeter variant, ripe plantains (which are yellow with dark spots) can be used, but they will change the flavor profile.
How should I store leftover Mofongo Garlic Shrimp?
Very! To store, place any leftover Mofongo Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on low in a skillet to preserve the texture of the mofongo and the flavor of the shrimp.
Can I freeze Mofongo Garlic Shrimp?
You can! For freezing, it’s best to freeze the shrimp and sauce separately from the mofongo. Store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight, then reheat the mofongo in the microwave and warm the shrimp in a skillet until heated through.
What should I do if my shrimp turns out rubbery?
Keep an eye on those delicious shrimp while cooking! If they’re overcooked, they’ll become rubbery and tough to chew, which is a common pitfall! Aim to sauté them for 3–4 minutes until just pink and opaque. If they seem undercooked, remember they will continue cooking once removed from heat.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This dish contains shrimp, which is an allergen for many individuals. If cooking for guests, ensure they are not allergic to shellfish. Additionally, the optional Parmesan cheese should be omitted for those with dairy allergies. You might also want to check for gluten content in any broth or wine if you’re avoiding gluten.
What can I serve with Mofongo Garlic Shrimp for a complete meal?
The more the merrier! Consider pairing it with a fresh salad, fried plantains, or a side of black beans to round out the meal. A light, citrusy salad can enhance the dish’s flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich mofongo and shrimp.
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp: Savor Puerto Rican Flavor at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling and chopping the green plantains into 1-inch pieces. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the plantain pieces. Cook them for about 10–12 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, drain the plantains and let them cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained plantains with a generous drizzle of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Using a fork or a potato masher, mash the plantains until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. Set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic, stirring for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are coated with the garlicky oil. Season with paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sauté the shrimp for about 3–4 minutes or until they are pink and opaque.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the butter, allowing it to melt. Then pour in the white wine and chicken broth, stirring frequently. Let the mixture simmer for about 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- To create a lovely presentation, take a spoonful of the mashed plantains and shape them into a mound in a serving bowl. Carefully place the sautéed shrimp on top, drizzling the flavorful sauce over them.
- Finish off your Mofongo Garlic Shrimp by sprinkling additional parsley over the top and adding Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
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