Sizzling Garlic Shrimp Mofongo: A Flavor Explosion

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the passionate creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share a dish that truly excites my taste buds: Garlic Shrimp Mofongo. This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic shrimp with the unique texture of mofongo, a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains. As a mom who loves to cook with my son, I find that this recipe is not just delicious but also brings us closer together in the kitchen.

Living in New Jersey, I draw inspiration from seasonal ingredients, and this dish is no exception. The garlicky shrimp paired with the creamy mofongo creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 ripe green plantains
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)

These ingredients are not only easy to find but also provide a wonderful balance of flavors. You can often spot ripe plantains at your local grocery store, making this dish accessible for everyone.

Timing

Cooking should be fun and stress-free! Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

In just under an hour, you can serve this mouthwatering dish to your family. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Plantains

1. Begin by peeling the plantains. Cut them into 1-inch slices.

2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the plantain slices and cook for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender.

Cooking the Shrimp

3. While the plantains are cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Toss in the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

6. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This will create a delicious sauce that enhances the shrimp.

Making the Mofongo

7. Drain the cooked plantains and place them in a large bowl. Mash them using a potato masher or fork until smooth.

8. Add a bit of the garlic shrimp sauce to the mashed plantains for flavor, mixing well.

9. Shape the mofongo into balls or serve it in a bowl, creating a well in the center.

Final Assembly

10. Spoon the sautéed garlic shrimp into the center of the mofongo. Optionally, garnish with chopped cilantro.

11. Serve with lime wedges for that extra zing!

Nutritional Information

It’s always good to know what you’re eating, right? Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 600mg

This hearty dish is a great source of protein and carbs, making it a balanced meal for your family!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish, here are a few suggestions:

• Use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a tropical twist.
• Try using cauliflower instead of plantains for a lower-carb option.
• Swap regular shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a different flavor profile.

These alternatives will keep the essence of the dish while catering to different dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a fresh side salad for a light meal.
• Pair it with avocado slices for creaminess.
• Offer a side of spicy sauce for those who crave heat.

Feel free to get creative with your accompaniments!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can sometimes be tricky! Here are some common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them!
• Not mashing the plantains enough will result in a chunky mofongo.
• Forgetting to season the shrimp can leave the dish bland. Don’t skip the salt and pepper!

With a little attention, you can avoid these mistakes and create a flavorful dish!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), here’s how to store them:

• Place the garlic shrimp and mofongo in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Enjoying the leftovers is a great way to savor this delicious meal again!

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a wonderful way to bring family together, and I hope this recipe inspires you to create lasting memories in your kitchen, just like I do with my son. With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, this dish can be on your table in no time!

FAQs

Can I make mofongo ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed plantains ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

Is mofongo gluten-free?

Absolutely! Mofongo is naturally gluten-free since it’s made from plantains.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this incredible Garlic Shrimp Mofongo as much as I do! Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process and making memories with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!

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