Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Name: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 4 ripe green plantains; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; salt and pepper to taste; fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional); lemon wedges for serving (optional)

By:

Marry

Published:

April 15, 2026

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Garlic Shrimp Mofongo combines the rich, comforting flavors of fried plantains with succulent garlic shrimp, creating a dish that’s hard to resist. The mofongo is wonderfully creamy yet slightly chunky, while the shrimp are infused with vibrant spices. This dish not only captures the essence of Puerto Rican cooking but also brings a touch of warmth to your table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy evening, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo delivers an incredible culinary experience.

I first discovered this dish during a family gathering, where the aroma of sizzling garlic and shrimp filled the air. The combination struck a perfect balance between savory and satisfying, and everyone quickly became enamored. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, affordable, and brings a delightful, homestyle feeling to any meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t made Garlic Shrimp Mofongo sooner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just a few essential ingredients, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic and spices makes each bite bursting with flavor.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden plantains paired with vibrant shrimp create a stunning presentation worthy of any occasion.
Flexible Serving: Perfect as a main course or a unique side dish for gatherings or family dinner.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapt this recipe by using vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 ripe green plantains: These are the star of the dish, providing a hearty base. Look for firm plantains for the best texture.
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh shrimp enhance flavor, but frozen shrimp work well too; just ensure they’re thawed before cooking.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your love for garlic!
1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Use low-sodium broth for better control over salt levels. You can also use homemade broth for a richer taste.
3 tablespoons olive oil: This enhances the richness of the dish during both frying and sautéing. A light oil, like canola, can be substituted if necessary.
1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness. Smoked paprika can add even more depth!
1 teaspoon ground cumin: This spice adds warm, earthy notes that perfectly complement the shrimp.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors; adjust according to your preference.
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of herbs brings brightness and color.
Lemon wedges for serving (optional): A squeeze of lemon enhances the dish, adding a refreshing zing.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Prepare the Plantains: Peel the 4 ripe green plantains and cut them into 1-inch thick slices. This helps them cook evenly.
Fry the Plantains: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices for about 5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels.
Mash the Plantains: In a large mixing bowl, place the fried plantains, adding a pinch of salt and the minced garlic. Using a fork or a mortar and pestle, mash until you achieve a chunky yet cohesive texture. Gradually add in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the plantains, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Cook the Shrimp: Add the pound of shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking retains tenderness.
Assemble the Dish: On a serving plate, form a mound with the mofongo, creating a well in the center. Pour the garlic shrimp mixture over the mofongo, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing burst of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, place the mofongo in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated all the way through. Be aware that the texture of the mofongo may change slightly, but refreshing with a drizzle of olive oil can help.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying plantains; this can lead to uneven cooking.
Use shrimp that are all around the same size for even cooking.
If the mofongo is too thick, add more broth gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
If you’re preparing the dish ahead of time, store the components separately and combine just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a delightful dish that showcases the best of Puerto Rican cuisine, offering a combination of comforting flavors and enjoyable textures. I encourage you to play around with the ingredients and make this dish your own. Maybe you’ll prefer a twist of lime instead of lemon or a dash of your favorite hot sauce? Remember, cooking is about expressing yourself and sharing enjoyment with others.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use yellow plantains instead of green ones?

Absolutely! Yellow plantains will yield a sweeter flavor and softer texture. Just remember that they will alter the overall taste and texture of the dish, giving it a different character.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is naturally gluten-free as all the ingredients are gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your broth is gluten-free as some store-bought versions can contain gluten.

What can I serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

This dish is great on its own, but it pairs well with a light salad, avocado slices, or a refreshing salsa. A cold beverage, like a light beer or tropical fruit juice, complements it wonderfully.

Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?

Definitely! Chicken or even tofu could work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust cooking times to ensure your chosen protein is cooked through properly.