Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: Best Easy 10-Minute Recipe

Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal! This recipe for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: Best Easy 10-Minute Recipe delivers incredible flavor in a fraction of the time. Get ready to experience the vibrant taste of Puerto Rico with minimal effort.

Mofongo, a beloved dish featuring mashed green plantains, is traditionally a labor of love. We’ve streamlined the process without sacrificing any of the authentic deliciousness, making this Read our in-depth guide here.

Why This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe Works

Our recipe for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is designed for speed and flavor. By utilizing smart cooking techniques and pre-preparing certain elements, you can achieve a gourmet-quality meal quickly.

The combination of plump, succulent shrimp infused with garlic and a perfectly textured mofongo base creates a truly satisfying dish. This easy **mofongo recipe** is perfect for busy evenings or when you crave something special without the fuss.

The Secret to a Perfect 10-Minute Mofongo

The magic behind our quick mofongo lies in using pre-made or frozen plantain masa, or by quickly frying plantain slices before mashing. This bypasses the lengthy traditional methods, bringing the vibrant flavors to your table faster.

Another key is our quick-cooking garlic shrimp. High heat and fresh ingredients ensure the shrimp are perfectly cooked and bursting with aromatic flavor in just minutes. You’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor achieved so rapidly!

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
1/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
1/4 cup adobo seasoning (or salt and pepper to taste)
2 green plantains, peeled and cut into 1-inch thick rounds (or 2 cups frozen plantain chunks)
1/4 cup chicharrones (pork cracklings), crushed (optional, but recommended)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons of adobo seasoning. Let it marinate for a few minutes while you prepare the mofongo.
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Making the Mofongo Base

If using fresh plantains: Fry the plantain rounds in the same skillet (add more oil if needed) until golden brown and tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
If using frozen plantain chunks: Microwave according to package directions or boil until tender.
Transfer the fried or cooked plantains to a large mortar and pestle (pilon) or a sturdy bowl. Add the remaining 2 minced garlic cloves, the remaining adobo seasoning, and the crushed chicharrones (if using).
Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, mashing the plantains until they form a soft, cohesive mixture. Do not over-mash; aim for a slightly chunky texture.

Step 3: Assembling the Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Using a small bowl or a mofongo mold, press some of the mashed plantain mixture firmly to create a cup-like shape.
Gently invert the mofongo cup onto a serving plate.
Fill the center of each mofongo cup with the cooked Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.
Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Mofongo

Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of broth when mashing the plantains; it helps achieve the right consistency. For extra flavor, you can sauté the garlic in the oil before adding the shrimp.

If you don’t have a pilon, a potato masher or even the back of a sturdy spoon will work. Just ensure the plantains are soft enough to mash easily.

Serving Suggestions for Your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

This delightful Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a complete meal on its own! However, it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or a light avocado salad. A sprinkle of hot sauce or a drizzle of Mojo criollo can also elevate the flavors.

Enjoy it as a standalone lunch or a satisfying dinner. For more on Mofongo’s rich history, check out this resource.

Variations: Customize Your Mofongo

Feel free to get creative with your mofongo! Instead of shrimp, try chicken or pork for a different protein. You can also add finely diced bell peppers or onions to the plantain mixture for extra flavor.

For a vegetarian option, fill the mofongo with sautéed mushrooms or black beans. The possibilities are endless, making this an incredibly versatile dish.

FAQ

What is mofongo?

Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish made from fried green plantains mashed with garlic, olive oil, and sometimes pork cracklings (chicharrones). It’s typically served as a side dish or stuffed with various meats or seafood, like **Garlic Shrimp Mofongo**.

Can I make mofongo ahead of time?

While the plantain base can be prepared slightly in advance, mofongo is best enjoyed fresh. The texture can become a bit hard if left for too long. If you must, prepare the mashed plantains and reheat gently before assembling with the **garlic shrimp**.

What kind of plantains should I use for mofongo?

For authentic mofongo, you must use green (unripe) plantains. These are firm, starchy, and not sweet. Yellow or black plantains are ripe and sweet, which will result in a completely different flavor and texture for your **Garlic Shrimp Mofongo**.