Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Classic (Print-Friendly Format)

Mashed plantains topped with garlicky shrimp create a bold, hearty Puerto Rican classic full of flavor.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Mofongo Base

01 - 4 green or slightly yellow plantains
02 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
04 - 0.25 cup pork cracklings (chicharrón), optional
05 - Salt, to taste
06 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Garlic Shrimp

07 - 450 grams medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
08 - 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
09 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Black pepper, to taste
12 - Paprika, optional for garnish
13 - Fresh cilantro, optional for garnish

→ Accompaniments and Garnish

14 - Lime wedges, optional
15 - Sautéed vegetables, optional
16 - Puerto Rican rice and beans, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Peel plantains and cut into 2–5 cm pieces. Boil in a medium pot of salted water for 10–15 minutes until fork tender, or fry until golden for deeper flavour.
02 - Drain plantains and transfer to a mortar and pestle or pilón. Mash with garlic, olive oil or butter, and optional chicharrón. Season generously with salt and black pepper until a coarse mash is achieved.
03 - Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
04 - Mold mofongo into serving bowls or plates. Top with garlic shrimp, and spoon pan juices over the mofongo.
05 - Garnish with fresh cilantro, paprika, or lime wedges as desired. Serve immediately for optimal texture.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For authentic texture, use starchy green plantains rather than ripe ones.
02 - The mofongo base can be made ahead and kept refrigerated for up to two days; prepare shrimp just before serving.
03 - Consider roasting or light frying plantains before mashing to intensify flavour.
04 - Vegetarian adaptation: Substitute shrimp with roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms.
05 - Pair with Puerto Rican rice and beans or a crisp salad to complete the meal.

Return