As I stood in my kitchen, the earthy aroma of garlic wafting through the air, I was transported to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico. Today’s culinary adventure is all about Mofongo Garlic Shrimp, a delightful dish that effortlessly brings comfort food vibes to your table. This recipe marries crispy green plantains, expertly mashed into a fluffy base, with succulent shrimp swathed in a zesty garlic sauce. With only 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you crave a hearty meal but want to skip the fast food pit stop. Plus, the balance of rich flavors and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is a mini celebration of Puerto Rican cuisine. Curious about how to recreate this delectable dish that’s sure to impress family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Mofongo Garlic Shrimp Irresistible?
Comforting and satisfying, this dish captures the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine, making it a perfect pick-me-up after a long day. Zesty garlic sauce envelopes juicy shrimp, creating a flavor explosion that complements the fluffy plantain base. Quick preparation in just 30 minutes means you can enjoy restaurant-quality food without hours of cooking. Versatile enough for family dinners or vibrant gatherings, your guests will rave about it! Plus, it stands out as a potentially gluten-free option, allowing more people to savor its deliciousness. Don’t miss pairing with a refreshing side salad for a complete meal!
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
For the Mofongo
• Green Plantains – The heart and soul of the dish; provides a starchy base that can be substituted with ripe plantains for added sweetness.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in achieving a creamy texture; you can also use a neutral oil if preferred.
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use fresh and deveined shrimp for the best flavor; any variety will work, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Garlic – Essential for that vibrant flavor; if you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a decent substitute.
• Paprika & Cayenne Pepper – These spices add warmth; feel free to adjust based on your heat tolerance.
• Butter – Provides richness to the sauce; plant-based alternatives can be used for a dairy-free version.
• White Wine – Enhances the sauce’s complexity; if you prefer to skip alcohol, chicken broth or seafood stock can do the trick.
• Chicken Broth – Infuses depth into the sauce; opt for low-sodium versions for better control over salt levels.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the overall dish, essential for acidity; you can swap it for lime juice if that’s what you have on hand.
• Parsley – Freshness and garnish; cilantro is a great alternative if you want to switch it up.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Adds a savory umami kick; feel free to omit for a dairy-free option.
This Mofongo Garlic Shrimp recipe is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mofongo Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Boil the Plantains
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the peeled green plantains and let them simmer for 10–12 minutes until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the plantains and set them aside to cool slightly, ensuring they’re ready for the next step without steaming hot.
Step 2: Mash the Plantains
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained plantains with a tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper to taste. Using a potato masher, mash the plantains until smooth and creamy, yet still a bit chunky for texture. Set this delightful base aside, as it will be the heart of your Mofongo Garlic Shrimp.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Grab a large skillet and heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as you want the garlic to be aromatic and golden without turning dark. This step will infuse the oil with a rich garlic flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the cleaned and deveined shrimp to the skillet along with paprika, cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add butter, white wine, and chicken broth. Scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the flavors into your sauce. Let this mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop a rich aroma that enhances the Mofongo Garlic Shrimp.
Step 6: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, mixing well to brighten up the sauce’s flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, ensuring that the garlic sauce is zesty and full of character. This will be the perfect drizzle over your Mofongo and shrimp, bringing the dish together beautifully.
Step 7: Assemble the Mofongo
To serve, mold the mashed plantains into a bowl, then invert it onto a plate to create a beautiful mound. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top, generously spooning the garlic sauce over the shrimp and plantains, allowing the flavors to intermingle beautifully.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
For a final touch, sprinkle fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese over the dish for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve your Mofongo Garlic Shrimp warm, ideally paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables to complement the richness of this comfort food.
Storage Tips for Mofongo Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover mofongo and shrimp in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezer: Freeze the mashed mofongo in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Shrimp can be frozen as well, but it’s best added fresh when serving.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat mofongo in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist. Sauté the shrimp briefly in a skillet to warm through without overcooking.
Meal Prep: If you’re making this dish ahead, consider prepping the mofongo and shrimp separately. This way, you can enjoy fresh flavors each time you indulge in this delightful Mofongo Garlic Shrimp!
Make Ahead Options
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp is an ideal dish for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prep the mashed plantains up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, the shrimp can be seasoned and refrigerated up to 3 days before cooking, ensuring robust flavor when you’re ready to sauté them. When it’s time to serve, simply bring the plantains to room temperature before reheating them in the microwave with a splash of water to keep them moist. Quickly sauté the shrimp, then assemble with the garlic sauce for a delicious meal that tastes just as fresh as if it were made from scratch!
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp: Creative Twists
Customize your Mofongo Garlic Shrimp and surprise your taste buds with delightful twists and substitutions that maintain its comforting essence!
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Potato Replacement: Switch out green plantains for Yukon Gold potatoes for a different flavor and texture. They offer a buttery taste that pairs well with the garlic sauce.
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Fresh Herbs: Boost the freshness by adding chopped cilantro or thyme to the sauce, lifting those robust flavors to new heights. Herbs bring a burst of vitality to each bite.
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Extra Veggies: Introduce diced bell peppers or green beans in the shrimp mix for added nutrition and vibrant color. The sweetness and crunch of veggies create an inviting contrast.
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Spicy Kick: For a hotter experience, toss in some jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while sautéing the garlic. Feel the heat as it complements the shrimp beautifully.
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Creamy Alternative: Substitute butter with a dairy-free cream or coconut cream if you’re seeking that velvety sauce without dairy. It’ll add a captivating richness and tropical flair.
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Citrus Swap: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different tang, brightening the dish with a refreshing twist. The zest and aroma elevate the experience.
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Savory Cheese: Replace Parmesan with Feta for a salty zing that contrasts wonderfully with the garlic and shrimp. This variation adds a unique Mediterranean flair.
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Broth Variety: Experiment with seafood stock instead of chicken broth; it can deepen the seafood flavor, making every bite a taste of ocean goodness!
With these simple yet effective variations, your Mofongo Garlic Shrimp can easily morph into something new and exciting, while still holding onto its Puerto Rican roots. If you’re looking for more garlicky goodness, try out Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken or add some zing with Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken. Each culinary adventure is waiting for you!
What to Serve with Mofongo Garlic Shrimp?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful pairings that bring out the best in this Puerto Rican favorite!
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Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery crunch that balances the rich flavors of the garlic shrimp. The freshness will brighten your meal and provide a satisfying contrast.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with olive oil is not only nutritious but also offers a subtle earthy flavor that complements the savory shrimp. Its vibrant green color makes the plate visually appealing as well.
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Rice and Beans: A classic side in Puerto Rican cuisine, this combination is hearty and hearty, soaking up the zesty sauce beautifully. The creaminess of the beans harmonizes with the textures of the mofongo.
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Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa combines sweet and spicy elements, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Serve it as a topping or on the side to invigorate your palate!
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Crispy Plantain Chips: For a fun twist, serve crispy plantain chips alongside the mofongo. Their crunchiness adds texture while echoing the main dish’s ingredients.
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White Wine Spritzer: Pair with this sparkling drink to cleanse your palate between bites. A blend of white wine and soda water, it adds a refreshing touch to the richness of garlic shrimp.
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Flan: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a traditional Puerto Rican flan. Its creamy texture and caramel flavor provide a lovely contrast to the savory dish.
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Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet coconut rice offers a creamy texture that pairs well with the zest of the garlic shrimp. The nutty undertones make an inviting complement to the spices.
Expert Tips for Mofongo Garlic Shrimp
- Watch the Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are cooked just until pink and opaque; overcooking leads to rubbery texture that detracts from the dish.
- Plantain Choice: Use green plantains for a savory taste; ripe ones will add sweetness but change the overall flavor profile of the mofongo garlic shrimp.
- Infuse Flavor: Don’t skip scraping the pan while preparing the sauce; these browned bits add depth and richness to your garlic sauce.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the paprika and cayenne pepper. Remember, you can always add more spice later!
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley not only enhances flavor but also brightens the dish visually; consider adding fresh cilantro for a twist.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover mofongo and shrimp in separate containers; this helps maintain the plantain texture when reheating your delicious mofongo garlic shrimp.
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect green plantains for Mofongo Garlic Shrimp?
Absolutely! Look for green plantains that are firm and have a vibrant green skin without dark spots or bruises. They should feel slightly heavy for their size, indicating they’re starchy and ripe for mashing. Ripe plantains can be used for a sweeter version, but keep in mind this will change the overall flavor profile.
What is the best way to store leftover Mofongo Garlic Shrimp?
Very good question! Place leftover mofongo and shrimp in separate airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This separation helps maintain the texture of the mofongo while keeping the shrimp succulent.
Can I freeze Mofongo Garlic Shrimp? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the mofongo to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container for up to 2 months. For the shrimp, it’s best to freeze them separately as they may become tough if frozen for long periods. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm up the mofongo in the microwave with a splash of water. Sauté the shrimp on the stovetop briefly to heat it through without overcooking.
What should I do if the shrimp turns rubbery?
Very important to avoid! If your shrimp becomes rubbery, it’s likely due to overcooking. Ensure that you only cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Also, try reducing the heat in your skillet if things are cooking too quickly, and remember to remove them from the pan as soon as they are done, allowing the residual heat to do the rest.
Are there any dietary considerations for Mofongo Garlic Shrimp?
Sure! This dish can be potentially gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth and omit any soy sauce. Additionally, if anyone at your table has a shellfish allergy, consider substituting shrimp with chicken or even sautéed vegetables to keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.
Mofongo Garlic Shrimp: Your New Comfort Food Obsession
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the plantains in salted water for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender, then drain and cool.
- Mash the cooled plantains with olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth yet chunky.
- Sauté minced garlic in olive oil for 1-2 minutes until aromatic, making sure not to burn it.
- Add shrimp, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper; sauté until shrimp are pink and opaque (3-4 minutes).
- Prepare the sauce by simmering butter, white wine, and chicken broth in the skillet for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and parsley to brighten the sauce's flavor, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
- Mold mashed plantains into a bowl, invert onto a plate, and top with shrimp and garlic sauce.
- Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese; serve warm with a refreshing side salad or steamed vegetables.
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