Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico right to your kitchen. This recipe combines crispy fried plantains with succulent shrimp in a rich garlic sauce, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its unique blend of textures and tastes ensures that each bite is a celebration of flavor. You’ll find this dish not only satisfying but also surprisingly easy to prepare.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Mofongo
- For the Garlic Sauce
- For Seasoning
- Garnish and Flavor Enhancers
- How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
- Step 2: Fry the Plantains
- Step 3: Make the Garlic Shrimp
- Step 4: Add Shrimp
- Step 5: Add Broth
- Step 6: Mash Plantains
- Step 7: Form Mofongo
- Step 8: Serve with Shrimp
- How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Pair with Fresh Salad
- Accompany with Fried Plantains
- Add a Side of Avocado Slices
- Serve with Lime Wedges
- Include Hot Sauce Options
- Present with Cilantro Garnish
- How to Perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Best Side Dishes for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Reheating Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- How do I know when the plantains are done frying?
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic, shrimp, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip this up without hassle.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo suits any occasion.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from plantains, it’s both delicious and nutritious.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or tweak the spices to match your palate.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Potato masher
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: This is essential for frying plantains and sautéing the shrimp, allowing for even cooking.
- Potato masher: This tool makes mashing the plantains easy, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Knife: A good knife is crucial for slicing plantains efficiently before frying.
Ingredients
For the Mofongo
- 2 large green plantains
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Garlic Sauce
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Garnish and Flavor Enhancers
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup crumbled 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 and cut them into 1-inch slices.
Step 2: Fry the Plantains
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Fry the plantain slices until golden and tender, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove them from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Shrimp
- In the same skillet, add butter along with olive oil.
- Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to the pan.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Cook until shrimp are pink and 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.
- Stir in lime juice and cilantro; then remove from heat.
Step 6: Mash Plantains
- In a large bowl, mash the fried plantains with a fork or potato masher.
- If desired, combine with crumbled Turkey Bacon for added flavor.
Step 7: Form Mofongo
- Shape the mashed plantains into a dome or bowl using your hands or a mold.
Step 8: Serve with Shrimp
- Place mofongo on a plate and top generously with the garlic shrimp mixture.
- Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.
With these clear steps, you’ll have an incredible plate of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo ready to impress your family or guests! Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
Serving Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delightful experience that combines flavors and textures. This dish is not only visually appealing but also versatile, allowing for various serving suggestions that can enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balances the richness of the mofongo.
Accompany with Fried Plantains
- Serve additional fried plantains on the side for a crunchy texture that complements the soft mofongo.
Add a Side of Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices provide a rich contrast and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Serve with Lime Wedges
- Fresh lime wedges allow guests to add a zesty touch, enhancing the garlic shrimp’s flavor.
Include Hot Sauce Options
- Offering a variety of hot sauces gives diners a choice to elevate their dish with some heat.
Present with Cilantro Garnish
- A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top not only makes for an attractive presentation but also adds extra flavor.

How to Perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
To achieve the best results when making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, consider these helpful tips for perfection.
Choose Ripe Plantains: Selecting plantains that are slightly green will give you a firmer texture, perfect for mashing.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates the dish’s flavor; avoid pre-minced varieties for maximum taste.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Keep an eye on shrimp while cooking; they should be pink and opaque but not rubbery.
Mash Plantains While Hot: Mashing them right after frying keeps them warm and easier to blend into a smooth consistency.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices like paprika or add cayenne pepper for extra heat according to your preference.
Serve Immediately: Enjoying Garlic Shrimp Mofongo right after preparation ensures its freshness and optimal taste.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
Complementing your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with tasty side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well:
Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, black beans offer a hearty side that balances out the meal nicely.
Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad adds sweetness and crunch, making it a vibrant addition to your plate.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a cool contrast to the warmth of mofongo, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Tomato & Cucumber Salad: This light salad brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish perfectly.
Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is perfect for wiping up any leftover sauce from your plate.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach offers a nutritious green side, complementing both color and flavor.
Fried Yuca: Crispy fried yuca adds another layer of texture while maintaining cultural authenticity in your meal.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf serves as a mild base that pairs well with the bold flavors of garlic shrimp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Incorrect Plantain Ripeness: Using overly ripe plantains will lead to a sweet flavor that clashes with the savory shrimp. Opt for green plantains for the best results.
- Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp adequately can result in bland flavors. Be sure to use salt, pepper, and paprika generously to enhance taste.
- Overcooking Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery. Watch closely and cook until they turn pink and opaque, usually 3-4 minutes.
- Not Mashing Properly: If you don’t mash the plantains enough, they may not hold together well when formed into mofongo. Aim for a smooth yet slightly chunky texture.
- Ignoring Broth Quality: Using low-quality chicken broth can affect the overall flavor of your dish. Choose a flavorful broth or homemade option for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container.
- item It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- item Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- item Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
- item It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until hot. Stir halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garlic Shrimp Mofongo:
What is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delicious Puerto Rican dish made from mashed fried plantains served with sautéed shrimp in garlic sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute shrimp with mushrooms or your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian version of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
How do I know when the plantains are done frying?
The plantains should be golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. This typically takes about 4-5 minutes per side.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure that you thaw them completely before cooking for optimal results in your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a versatile dish that brings bold flavors together beautifully. Whether you’re hosting dinner or enjoying a casual meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adding different proteins or spices according to your taste!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delicious Puerto Rican dish that masterfully combines the rich flavors of garlic shrimp with the comforting texture of mashed fried plantains. This incredible ultimate recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a flavor-packed experience that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Each bite offers a delightful blend of crispy and tender textures, ensuring that this dish becomes a new favorite at your table. With its healthy ingredients and customizable options, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences.
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
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup crumbled Turkey Bacon (optional)
Instructions
- Peel plantains and cut into 1-inch slices.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; fry plantain slices until golden (4-5 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add shrimp, season with salt and spices; cook until shrimp are pink (3-4 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth; simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in lime juice and cilantro.
- Mash fried plantains in a bowl using a fork or potato masher.
- Shape mashed plantains into a dome or bowl.
- Serve topped with the garlic shrimp mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 175mg





