Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a tasty dish that features crispy plantains mashed with garlic and served with succulent shrimp. It’s a fun mix of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
What’s not to love? The crunchy outside of the mofongo combined with the juicy garlic shrimp is simply irresistible. I could eat this every week! 😋
I enjoy making this dish because it’s easy to whip up, and it’s great for sharing with friends. Just think of all the happy faces at the table—who could resist that deliciousness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Plantains: Green plantains are perfect for getting that nice, starchy base for mofongo. Yellow plantains can also work, but they’ll be sweeter. If you can’t find plantains, mashed potatoes are a simple alternative!
Shrimp: Large shrimp bring great flavor and texture. If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken or tofu instead. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can stand in, but fresh delivers the best taste! I’ve found that using roasted garlic gives a nice twist to the dish.
Cream or Coconut Milk: Using coconut milk can make the dish feel tropical and rich. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, low-fat cream works well too, or you can substitute with a dairy-free cream.
How Do I Get the Perfect Mashing Technique for Plantains?
Mashing plantains is an art that’s essential for making great mofongo. You want them to have a sticky and smooth texture. Follow these tips:
- Once the plantains are fried, place them in a large bowl while they’re still hot—this helps them mash easier!
- Start mashing with the garlic and butter to combine the flavors, adding chicken broth little by little until you achieve the right consistency.
- Use a mortar and pestle if you want to go traditional, or a potato masher can work just fine!
- Don’t over-mash! You want some chunks in there for texture.
Give it a good shape to hold together when you serve. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; it’ll still taste amazing!
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mofongo:
- 4 green plantains (or yellow if preferred)
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth (for mashing plantains)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 4 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, divided
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cream or coconut milk (for the sauce)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp lime juice or vinegar (optional, to brighten flavors)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Shrimp Mofongo takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus roughly 30 minutes for cooking. You’ll be able to enjoy this hearty dish in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Plantains:
Start by peeling the plantains. Cut them into about 1-inch thick slices to make frying easier. It’s okay if they’re not perfect; they’ll taste great!
2. Fry the Plantains:
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, fry the plantain slices until they’re golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Once done, remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
3. Mash the Plantains:
In a large bowl or a mortar and pestle, mash the fried plantains with 2 tbsp of butter, 2 minced garlic cloves, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. As you mash, add some chicken broth gradually until you achieve a moist, sticky consistency. You can shape it into individual molds or balls and set them aside.
4. Prepare the Shrimp:
Take your cleaned shrimp and season them with some salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). This will add a nice touch of flavor to the dish!
5. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Toss in the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set aside.
6. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant. Then, add chicken broth and cream (or coconut milk), stirring to combine everything. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice or vinegar, if you like.
7. Assemble the Dish:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place the molded mofongo onto a serving plate, pour the garlic sauce around it, and top it with the lovely garlic shrimp. Can you smell it already? Yum!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro over the shrimp for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy your tasty Garlic Shrimp Mofongo! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress!
Enjoy this vibrant dish, packed with garlicky shrimp flavor and the comforting, rich mofongo base!
Can I Use Ripe Plantains for This Recipe?
Ripe plantains (yellow) can be used, but keep in mind they will add a bit more sweetness to the mofongo. Green plantains are preferred for their starchiness, giving you that classic texture, but feel free to experiment!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover mofongo and shrimp in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the mofongo in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the shrimp, a quick sauté in a pan works best to maintain their texture.
Can I Make the Mofongo in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed plantains ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in a pan before serving. The shrimp and sauce can also be made in advance; simply reheat before serving!
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all store-bought ingredients, such as chicken broth or cream, are labeled gluten-free if you have a sensitivity. Enjoy without worry!