Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delightful dish that resonates with the rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean. This vibrant dish combines fluffy, mashed plantains with succulent garlic shrimp, creating a comforting meal that tantalizes your taste buds. The combination of textures and flavors—from the buttery shrimp to the creamy plantains—makes this recipe an exciting favorite for any occasion.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
Why Make This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is not just a dish; it’s an experience! This recipe highlights the cultural heritage of Puerto Rico, bringing a comforting dish to your table that is both filling and flavorful. The sweet, earthy taste of plantains harmoniously pairs with the garlicky, savory shrimp, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. With its combination of easy preparation and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your home kitchen.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Creating this delicious Garlic Shrimp Mofongo involves simple steps that lead to a magnificent plate full of flavor. Follow these instructions to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 ripe plantains, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, boil plantains in salted water until tender, which takes about 15-20 minutes. This is essential to achieve the perfect texture for your mofongo. Once done, drain the plantains and let them cool slightly.
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Step 2: Sautéing the Garlic
In a skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which will take about 1-2 minutes. This step infuses the oil with a rich garlic flavor that will be key to your shrimp.
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Step 3: Cooking the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, which should take around 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking.
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Step 4: Mashing the Plantains
In a large bowl, mash the boiled plantains until smooth. This is where you’ll want to mix in the chicken broth, adjusting the quantity to reach your desired creamy consistency. This dish is all about that wonderful plantain texture!
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Step 5: Serving
Serve the creamy mashed plantains topped generously with the garlic shrimp mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a bright, herbal contrast that enhances the dish’s vibrant flavors.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo shines as a main course, but you can elevate it by pairing it with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables on the side. It also makes for a delightful dish to serve at dinner parties, showcasing Caribbean flavors that everyone will love. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors even further!
How to Store Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
To store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
- Choosing Plantains: Make sure your plantains are ripe; they should have yellow skin with some black spots for optimal sweetness.
- Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Watch the shrimp carefully while they cook. They turn from translucent to pink very quickly!
- Garnish Creatively: Feel free to add additional garnishes like avocado slices or finely diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetable Mofongo: Substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the shrimp mixture for an extra heat boost.
- Cheesy Mofongo: Mix in some grated cheese to the mashed plantains for a creamy, cheesy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking for the best texture. -
What can I use in place of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or water can be used as a substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. -
How do I know when the plantains are cooked?
They should be tender and you should be able to easily poke them with a fork when done. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the plantains in advance and store them. Just cook the shrimp right before serving for best results. -
What’s a good side to pair with this dish?
A fresh green salad or a side of black beans would complement the flavors nicely.
Conclusion
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a joyous dish that wraps up the essence of Caribbean cooking in one comforting bite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a burst of flavors that come together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or wanting to impress guests, this dish is certain to be a hit. Gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of sharing this special dish with your loved ones.
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Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A delightful Caribbean dish combining fluffy, mashed plantains with succulent garlic shrimp for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 ripe plantains, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, boil plantains in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, mash the boiled plantains until smooth, mixing in enough chicken broth to reach desired creamy consistency.
- Serve the creamy mashed plantains topped with the garlic shrimp mixture and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
