As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over my kitchen, the smell of sizzling garlic fills the air, teasing my appetite. Today, I’m excited to whip up a dish that not only dazzles the senses but also showcases the vibrant flavors of my Puerto Rican roots: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo. This recipe is a delightful blend of crispy fried plantains and succulent shrimp, making it not just a feast for the taste buds but also a comforting meal that can be on your table in less than an hour! With minimal prep and the ability to impress any crowd, this dish is perfect for both cozy family dinners or a festive gathering. Are you ready to elevate your next mealtime with a tropical twist? Let's dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with the robust taste of garlic-infused olive oil and succulent shrimp, bringing a taste of the tropics to your table.
Simple Steps: The recipe is easy to follow, utilizing only a few key ingredients and basic cooking techniques that anyone can master.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving at family gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo can cater to any occasion.
Time Efficient: In less than an hour, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it a fantastic option for those busy weeknights.
If you love garlic flavors, don’t forget to check out more of my favorites, like Cheese Garlic Crack or Garlic Butter Chicken!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Ingredients
Let’s gather everything you’ll need to make this delightful dish!
For the Mofongo
• 3 ripe plantains – The ripeness adds a natural sweetness that balances the savory shrimp.
• ½ cup garlic-infused olive oil – This is key for that rich garlic flavor in every bite.
For the Shrimp
• ¼ cup garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the overall aroma and taste of the shrimp.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Choose fresh or frozen shrimp for the best results.
• ¼ cup chicken broth – Adds moisture and depth to the shrimp mixture.
Seasoning
• Salt to taste – Enhances the flavors, bringing everything together.
• Pepper to taste – A pinch adds a nice touch of heat to the dish.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s start cooking this heavenly Garlic Shrimp Mofongo!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Start by peeling the 3 ripe plantains and slicing them into thick rounds, about 1-inch thick. This ensures even cooking. Next, set aside your cutting board and knife, as you’ll need a large skillet for cooking. Make sure it’s ready for the upcoming frying step to keep things moving smoothly.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In the large skillet, pour in ½ cup of garlic-infused olive oil and heat over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 2-3 minutes until shimmering but not smoking. This is the perfect time to get your spatula ready for frying those plantains to a golden perfection!
Step 3: Fry the Plantains
Carefully add the sliced plantains to the hot oil, ensuring they lay flat in a single layer. Fry them until golden brown and tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re a beautiful golden hue, flip the slices halfway through for even cooking, then remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add ¼ cup of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn it, as this will impart a bitter taste to the Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Add 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This is when your kitchen will smell absolutely divine! Keep stirring to ensure even cooking throughout.
Step 6: Add the Broth
Pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth, and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste over the shrimp. Stir gently to combine and allow this mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully for your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
Step 7: Mash the Plantains
Using a fork or potato masher, mash the fried plantains in a bowl while adding a drizzle of the leftover garlic-infused oil for added flavor. Aim for a smooth yet chunky consistency, which will create a hearty base for your dish.
Step 8: Assemble the Dish
Form a mound of the mashed plantains on a serving plate. Carefully spoon the garlic shrimp mixture over the top, ensuring a generous amount of the aromatic sauce drizzles down the sides. Voila! Your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze, separate the shrimp from the mashed plantains and freeze both in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat the plantains in a skillet over medium heat and the shrimp in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Enjoying Later: For the best flavor, consume the Garlic Shrimp Mofongo within a couple of days after preparing, as reheating may affect texture.
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Substitutions
Feel free to explore your culinary creativity and make this dish uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms for a delicious plant-based twist that still brings robust flavor.
Mushrooms absorb the garlic-infused oil beautifully, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. -
Dairy-Free: Swap any chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it light and suitable for a dairy-free diet.
This ensures you still get all the savory flavors without sacrificing taste. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic for an extra layer of heat.
This simple addition can elevate the dish into something exciting, perfect for spice lovers! -
Texture Boost: Toss in a handful of crispy bacon pieces with the shrimp for added crunch and richness.
The saltiness of the bacon pairs lovely with the sweet plantains, offering a comforting decadence. -
Citrus Zest: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the completed dish for a bright, refreshing finish.
This zesty pop will enhance your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, making each bite even more engaging. -
Nutty Flavor: Top your dish with toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds for an additional nutty crunch.
This unexpected twist will make the dish feel gourmet while contributing a satisfying texture. -
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley into your shrimp mix for a herbaceous lift.
The addition of herbs will brighten the dish and complement the garlic wonderfully. -
Fried Egg: Serve with a sunny-side-up egg on top, making it a glorious, hearty breakfast option.
The creamy yolk adds richness, making every spoonful a delightful experience.
For more garlic goodness, don't miss checking out Sheet Pan Shrimp as another great way to enjoy succulent shrimp!
Make Ahead Options
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a fantastic dish to prepare ahead of time, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can slice and fry the plantains up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispiness. Additionally, the garlic shrimp mixture can be prepped and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve flavor. When you're ready to serve, reheat the shrimp mix in a skillet until warmed through and follow up by mashing the plantains and assembling the dish. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade Garlic Shrimp Mofongo ready with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Creating a full meal experience around this delightful dish will elevate your dining experience.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: This crunchy, buttery bread perfectly complements the rich garlic flavors, adding an irresistible crunch to each bite.
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Zesty Avocado Salad: A refreshing side of diced avocado, tomatoes, and lime balances the hearty mofongo, providing a bright, creamy contrast.
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Black Bean Rice: Adding a side of black bean rice brings a protein-packed element, enhancing the dish while keeping flavors harmonious.
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Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and herbs, roasted veggies add a warm, earthy touch that pairs beautifully with the savory shrimp.
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Mango Salsa: The sweetness of fresh mango salsa slices through the savory shrimp, adding a tropical twist that enhances this island-inspired dish.
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Pineapple Coconut Mojito: Sip on this refreshing drink as it perfectly complements the flavorful richness of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, with its sweet and minty notes.
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Coconut Flan: For dessert, indulge in a creamy coconut flan that adds an elegant finish, rounding out a beautiful tropical-themed meal.
Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
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Choose Ripe Plantains: Opt for plantains that are yellow with a few black spots. This ensures a sweet and creamy base, perfect for your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
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Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic until fragrant but be cautious – it can burn quickly. Burnt garlic will ruin the dish, so keep a close eye on it while cooking.
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Evenly Cook Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are cooked evenly by stirring constantly. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on their color change.
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Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper levels separately for the shrimp and plantains. Tasting as you go helps create the perfect balance in your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
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Leave Some Texture: When mashing the plantains, aim for a slightly chunky consistency for a delightful texture contrast with the garlic shrimp topping.
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe FAQs
What type of plantains should I use for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! Look for ripe plantains that are yellow with some black spots. This indicates they’re sweet and creamy, perfect for mashing into that heavenly base for your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
How should I store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Store your leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors fresh, it's best to store the shrimp and plantains separately if you can.
Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Very! To freeze, separate the shrimp from the mashed plantains. Place them in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
What’s the best way to reheat Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Reheated Garlic Shrimp Mofongo deserves special care! Gently warm the mashed plantains in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little garlic-infused oil for moisture. Reheat the shrimp in the microwave or on the stove until heated through but don’t overcook them to maintain their tenderness.
Can I make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo gluten-free?
You bet! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always double-check your broth label to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
What can I serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
I recommend pairing this dish with a simple green salad or some delicious avocado slices for a complete meal! Additionally, a side of fried plantains can amplify those comforting flavors even more.
Savor the Flavor: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel the plantains and slice them into thick rounds, about 1-inch thick.
- In the large skillet, pour in garlic-infused olive oil and heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sliced plantains to the hot oil, fry until golden brown and tender for about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet with sautéed garlic, cook for 3-4 minutes or until shrimp are pink.
- Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper, simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Mash the fried plantains in a bowl, adding a drizzle of the leftover garlic-infused oil.
- Form a mound of the mashed plantains on a serving plate and spoon the garlic shrimp mixture over the top.
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