Ingredients
Plantains and Mofongo
- 4 green or slightly yellow plantains
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup pork cracklings (chicharrón), optional
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic Shrimp
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: paprika or fresh cilantro for garnish
To Serve
- Lime wedges
- Sautéed vegetables or Puerto Rican rice and beans
Instructions
- Prepare Plantains: Peel the plantains and cut them into 1 to 2 inch pieces. Boil the pieces in water until tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can optionally fry the boiled plantains after draining.
- Mash Mofongo: Using a mortar and pestle or a pilón, mash the tender plantains together with minced garlic, olive oil or butter, and the optional pork cracklings (chicharrón). Season the mashed mixture with salt and pepper to taste until well combined.
- Cook Garlic Shrimp: Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the peeled shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Assemble Dish: Mold the mashed mofongo into serving bowls or onto plates. Top the mofongo with the cooked garlic shrimp and drizzle the pan juices over the top to enhance flavor.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Serve immediately with lime wedges and your choice of sautéed vegetables or classic Puerto Rican rice and beans to complete the meal.
Notes
- Using slightly yellow plantains will result in a sweeter mofongo, while green plantains give a more savory taste.
- Adding pork cracklings (chicharrón) contributes a crunchy texture and authentic flavor, but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- You can fry the plantain pieces after boiling for extra crispiness and flavor.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the shrimp while cooking.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor of the mofongo.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican