Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delightful Caribbean dish that brings together the bold flavors of garlic-infused shrimp and the comforting texture of mofongo, a mashed plantain specialty. This recipe offers a perfect blend of savory, garlicky shrimp atop a fluffy mound of mofongo that captures authentic island vibes in every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick meal or an impressive dish to share, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo will satisfy your taste buds with its vibrant taste and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A burst of authentic flavor: The combination of garlic and shrimp delivers a mouthwatering Caribbean taste that’s hard to resist.
• Simple and quick: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this dish comes together fast for your busy days.
• Comfort food with a twist: Mofongo’s mashed plantains provide a hearty, unique base that perfectly complements the shrimp.
• Versatile meal: Great for lunch, dinner, or even entertaining guests with a bit of island flair.
• Nutrient-packed and satisfying: Shrimp adds protein while plantains offer fiber and potassium, making it a balanced dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so memorable.

• Green plantains: The star for mofongo’s dense, starchy base; green plantains provide a slightly tangy flavor.
• Fresh shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for tender, juicy bites infused with garlic.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves create the aromatic foundation of the shrimp sauce.
• Olive oil or butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the shrimp to perfection.
• Chicken broth: Moistens the mofongo, making it fluffy and flavorful.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all other flavors.
• Optional parsley or cilantro: Fresh herbs add a touch of brightness and color to the final dish.

Variations for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Feel free to personalize this Garlic Shrimp Mofongo recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. It’s super easy to tweak, making every plate uniquely yours.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the shrimp for extra heat.
• Vegetarian version: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu for a meat-free option.
• Cheesy delight: Mix shredded cheese like queso blanco or mozzarella into the mofongo for creamy texture.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or thyme for unique flavor notes.
• Coconut infusion: Replace chicken broth with coconut milk to add a tropical richness to the mofongo.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Step 1: Prepare the Plantains

Start by peeling the green plantains and cutting them into thick slices. Boil the slices in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. This softens them for blending into the mofongo base.

Step 2: Mash the Plantains

Drain the cooked plantains and transfer them to a bowl. Mash with a pestle or fork, mixing in chicken broth, olive oil, and some minced garlic until the texture is slightly chunky but cohesive.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic Shrimp

In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Shape the mashed plantains into small mounds or balls on serving plates. Spoon the garlic shrimp on top generously. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately for best taste.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

• Choose the right plantains: Use unripe green plantains for the authentic mofongo texture and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; remove from heat as soon as they turn opaque to avoid rubberiness.
• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic gives a bold, bright flavor that powdered garlic can’t match.
• Moisten the mofongo: Gradually add broth to get a fluffy, not dry, mash consistency.
• Customize salt carefully: Balance the salt, since shrimp and broth already add saltiness.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Garnishes

Top your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo with freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or even thin slices of avocado to add freshness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad, garlic butter vegetables, or Caribbean-style rice and beans to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stuffing the mofongo into small fried plantain cups or serving the shrimp in a cast-iron skillet on the side for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness without losing flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, separate the shrimp and mofongo in freezer-safe containers; freeze the mofongo for up to 3 months and shrimp for 1 month to preserve texture.

Reheating

Reheat mofongo gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist, while reheating shrimp quickly to avoid toughness.

FAQs

Can I use ripe plantains instead of green for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

While ripe plantains are sweeter and softer, they’ll alter the traditional mofongo texture and flavor, so green plantains are recommended for authenticity.

Is it possible to make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as all ingredients are free from gluten, just ensure your broth and seasonings don’t contain additives.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it plant-based.

How spicy is this dish by default?

This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is mild by default, but you can easily add heat with spices like chili flakes or hot sauce according to your taste.

What wine pairs well with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Riesling complements the garlicky shrimp and rich mofongo beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a true Caribbean treasure that brings warmth, flavor, and a little touch of island magic to your table. Its simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weekday dinner to a special gathering. Once you make this recipe, you’ll find yourself wanting to share it with everyone you know—so go ahead, give it a try and enjoy every garlicky, shrimp-filled bite!

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