Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is a classic Caribbean-inspired dish that brings together crispy fried plantains and juicy shrimp tossed in a rich garlic sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make at home. Perfect for a comforting dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe delivers bold taste with minimal effort.
2 large green plantains
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
¼ cup crumbled bacon (optional)
Prepare the Plantains
Peel the green plantains and cut them into 1-inch slices.
Fry the Plantains
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and tender. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Garlic Shrimp
In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Add the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2 minutes, then stir in lime juice and cilantro. Remove from heat.
Mash the Plantains
Place the fried plantains in a large bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher. Mix in crumbled bacon if using.
Form the Mofongo
Shape the mashed plantains into a dome or bowl using your hands or a mold.
Serve
Place the mofongo on a plate and top with the garlic shrimp and sauce. Spoon extra sauce over the top before serving.
Use green plantains: Ripe plantains are too sweet and soft for authentic mofongo.
Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook fast—remove them as soon as they turn pink.
Add extra broth if needed: If the plantains feel dry while mashing, add a few tablespoons of warm broth.