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Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe

4.9 from 108 reviews

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish featuring mashed green plantains mixed with garlic and topped with sautéed shrimp in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. This comforting and savory meal combines the starchy texture of mofongo with succulent, garlicky shrimp and is finished with fresh cilantro and lime juice for a zesty finish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mofongo

  • 2 large green plantains
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Shrimp

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Plantains: Start by peeling the green plantains and cutting them into 1-inch thick slices. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the plantain slices until they are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
  2. Mash the Plantains: While still warm, place the cooked plantains in a large bowl or mortar. Add olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mash the plantains vigorously until a chunky, cohesive dough forms. Set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic Shrimp: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in paprika. Stir gently and allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly reduced and flavorful, coating the shrimp well.
  5. Combine and Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Serve the garlic shrimp over the mashed plantains, spooning extra sauce on top for a delicious finish.

Notes

  • For authentic mofongo texture, use green plantains which are firm and starchy.
  • If you prefer a crispier mofongo, some recipes suggest frying the plantains before mashing, but boiling is a lighter alternative.
  • Adjust garlic levels according to taste; more garlic intensifies the flavor.
  • Use fresh lime juice at the end to brighten the dish and balance richness.
  • Pair this dish with a simple salad or avocado slices for a complete meal.

Keywords: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, Puerto Rican, Plantains, Shrimp, Garlic, Traditional Recipe