If you’ve ever dreamed of tasting Puerto Rico on a plate, Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic is the dish that delivers that experience in every bite. This iconic Caribbean comfort food combines crispy mashed plantains infused with garlic and olive oil, topped with juicy garlic shrimp bursting with savory flavor. In the first forkful, you’ll understand why garlic shrimp mofongo is one of the most beloved traditional dishes in Puerto Rican cuisine.
Rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying, this recipe is perfect for home cooks who want bold flavors without complicated techniques. Whether you’re new to Puerto Rican cooking or looking to recreate a restaurant favorite at home, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Garlic shrimp mofongo is a classic Puerto Rican dish made from fried green plantains that are mashed with garlic, olive oil or butter, and optional pork cracklings (chicharrón). The mofongo is then shaped and topped with sautéed shrimp cooked in a fragrant garlic sauce.
Why Mofongo Is So Popular in Puerto Rico
- Deeply rooted in Puerto Rican culinary history
- Simple ingredients with bold flavor
- Naturally filling and satisfying
- Versatile base that pairs with seafood, chicken, or vegetables
Mofongo is more than food—it’s a cultural experience.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe
This recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.
Key Reasons to Love It
- Authentic Puerto Rican flavors
- Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Crispy, garlicky, and savory in every bite
- Easy to customize for dietary preferences
- Impressive yet comforting
Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, garlic shrimp mofongo always stands out.
Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
Using traditional ingredients is key to achieving authentic flavor.
For the Mofongo
- 4 green or slightly yellow plantains
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup pork cracklings (chicharrón), optional
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Shrimp
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: paprika or fresh cilantro for garnish
Optional Accompaniments
- Lime wedges
- Sautéed vegetables
- Puerto Rican rice and beans
Ingredient Breakdown: Why Each One Matters
Green Plantains
Green plantains are firm and starchy, making them ideal for frying and mashing. They form the hearty base of mofongo.
Garlic
Garlic is the soul of this dish. It infuses both the mofongo and shrimp with unmistakable Puerto Rican flavor.
Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly and absorb garlic beautifully, providing a tender, juicy contrast to the crispy plantains.
Chicharrón (Optional)
Pork cracklings add crunch and smoky depth, but the dish is still delicious without them.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Step by Step
This dish comes together in manageable stages.
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
- Peel the plantains by trimming the ends and slicing lengthwise through the skin
- Cut plantains into 1-inch pieces
- Rinse and pat dry
Green plantains are firmer than bananas—take your time peeling.
Step 2: Fry the Plantains
Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
- Fry plantain pieces in batches
- Cook until golden and crispy on the outside
- Remove and drain on paper towels
This step creates the texture mofongo is known for.
Step 3: Mash the Mofongo
In a large mortar and pestle (or sturdy bowl):
- Add fried plantains
- Add minced garlic
- Add olive oil or butter
- Add chicharrón if using
- Season with salt and pepper
Mash until chunky but cohesive. Do not over-purée.
Step 4: Shape the Mofongo
- Form mashed plantains into small domes or bowls
- Set aside while preparing shrimp
Shaping helps hold the garlic shrimp topping.
Step 5: Cook the Garlic Shrimp
Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add:
- Minced garlic
- Cook until fragrant (30 seconds)
Add shrimp:
- Season with salt and pepper
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque
Optional garnish with paprika or fresh cilantro.
Step 6: Assemble Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
- Place shrimp on top of each mofongo mound
- Spoon garlic butter from the pan over the shrimp
- Serve with lime wedges
The garlic oil ties everything together.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
- Use green plantains for authentic texture
- Do not overcrowd shrimp when cooking
- Mash mofongo while plantains are hot
- Taste and adjust seasoning gradually
- Serve immediately for best texture
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using ripe (sweet) plantains
- Over-mashing the mofongo
- Burning garlic
- Overcooking shrimp
- Skipping seasoning
Avoiding these ensures perfect results every time.
Variations of Mofongo You Can Try
Mofongo is incredibly versatile.
Popular Variations
- Shrimp mofongo in garlic sauce
- Chicken mofongo
- Vegetable mofongo
- Seafood mofongo mix
- Vegan mofongo (no chicharrón, olive oil only)
Once you master the base, the options are endless.
What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo
This dish is filling, but accompaniments elevate it further.
Great Pairings
- Puerto Rican rice and beans
- Simple avocado salad
- Sautéed peppers and onions
- Light citrus salad
A squeeze of lime brightens everything.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container
- Refrigerate up to 2 days
Reheating
- Reheat mofongo in a skillet with a little oil
- Reheat shrimp gently to avoid overcooking
Fresh is best, but leftovers are still delicious.
Nutritional Highlights
- Good source of protein from shrimp
- Naturally gluten-free
- Filling and satisfying
- Can be adapted for lighter diets
Portion control is key, as plantains are calorie-dense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is garlic shrimp mofongo made of?
Garlic shrimp mofongo is made from fried green plantains mashed with garlic and olive oil, topped with shrimp sautéed in garlic butter.
Is mofongo hard to make at home?
No. While it looks impressive, mofongo is beginner-friendly when broken into simple steps.
Can I make mofongo without pork cracklings?
Yes. Chicharrón is optional and can be omitted for a lighter or vegetarian version.
What type of shrimp is best for garlic shrimp mofongo?
Medium shrimp are ideal because they cook quickly and stay tender.
Is garlic shrimp mofongo healthy?
It can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, especially when portioned properly and paired with vegetables.
Can mofongo be made ahead of time?
Mofongo is best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead to save time.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Beginners
- Simple ingredients
- Clear, manageable steps
- Forgiving cooking process
- Big flavor without complexity
Even first-time cooks can succeed with this recipe.
Final Thoughts: A True Taste of Puerto Rico
Garlic Shrimp Mofongo – Flavor-Packed Puerto Rican Classic is more than a recipe—it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and bold Caribbean flavor. Crispy plantains, fragrant garlic, and juicy shrimp come together to create a dish that feels both rustic and indulgent.
