EASY Shrimp mofongo with white sauce

In the heart of the Caribbean, where sun-kissed shores meet lush greenery, lies a culinary gem that tantalizes taste buds and warms the soul: Shrimp Mofongo with White Sauce. Picture this: golden-fried plantains, their edges crisped to perfection, mashed with garlic and love. And nestled atop this flavorful mound? Plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a velvety white sauce that whispers of indulgence.

The Basics of Mofongo

Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish that celebrates the marriage of simple ingredients. Here’s how you can make it:

1. Green Plantains: Start with green, unripe plantains. These starchy bananas are the heart of mofongo. Peel and slice them into rounds.
2. Frying the Plantains: Heat vegetable oil and fry the plantain slices until they turn golden yellow. You want them cooked through but not overly browned.
3. Mashing the Plantains: In a pilón (wooden mortar and pestle), mash the fried plantains while they’re still hot. Add a couple of garlic cloves, some pork cracklings (chicharrón), a tablespoon of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. The steam from the hot plantains will help cook the other ingredients.
4. Texture Matters: Be mindful not to mash the mixture all the way through. You want to retain some texture for a delightful contrast of flavours and a crispy bite.
5. Serving Options: Mofongo can be shaped into balls or a half-dome shape using a small condiment bowl as a mould. Serve it alongside a bowl of chicken broth for a traditional touch.

Preparing the Shrimp

When it comes to the shrimp component of your Shrimp Mofongo, attention to detail ensures a flavorful outcome:

1. Select Fresh Shrimp: Begin with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Opt for jumbo shrimp (21 to 25 count) or tiger shrimp. Their sweet flavour and tender texture complement the mofongo base beautifully.
2. Seasoning Options:
   • Garlic: Smash four garlic cloves into a paste using a mortar and pestle. Garlic infuses the shrimp with aromatic flavour.
   • Salt and Pepper: Season the shrimp with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add two tablespoons of unsalted butter (preferably cultured butter) and one tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil.
   • Once the butter melts, add the smashed garlic cloves. Cook until fragrant (about 1 minute), stirring to prevent burning.
   • Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque (about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side).
   • Pour in white wine (about ⅓ cup) and the juice of half a lemon (approximately two tablespoons).
   • Let the mixture reduce on low heat until a thick, flavorful sauce forms (about 2 to 3 minutes).
   • Season the shrimp with additional salt and pepper if needed.
4. Combining with Mofongo:
   • Firmly pack the prepared mofongo into a small bowl to mould its shape.
   • Turn the bowl over onto a plate to release the mofongo.
   • Spoon the cooked shrimp and its sauce generously over the mofongo.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
5. Serve Immediately:
   • Shrimp Mofongo is best enjoyed right away while the mofongo is still warm and tender.
   • The combination of crispy plantains, garlicky shrimp, and creamy sauce will transport you to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico.

Creating the Shrimp Mofongo with White Sauce Base

The heart of mofongo lies in its base – a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. Follow these steps to achieve mofongo perfection:

Assembling Shrimp Mofongo with White Sauce

Assembling Shrimp Mofongo is where the magic happens. Follow these steps to bring all the flavors together:

1. Layer the Mofongo Base:
   • Firmly pack the prepared mofongo into a small bowl to mould its shape.
   • Turn the bowl over onto a plate to release the mofongo.
   • The mofongo base serves as the foundation for the dish.
2. Add the Shrimp:
   • Prepare the shrimp by sautéing them in a skillet with garlic, butter, and olive oil.
   • Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque (about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side).
   • Pour in white wine (about ⅓ cup) and the juice of half a lemon (approximately two tablespoons).
   • Let the mixture reduce on low heat until a thick, flavorful sauce forms (about 2 to 3 minutes).
   • Season the shrimp with additional salt and pepper if needed.
3. Place Shrimp on Mofongo:
   • Spoon the cooked shrimp and its sauce generously over the mofongo base.
   • The combination of crispy plantains and garlicky shrimp creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
   • Serve the Shrimp Mofongo immediately while everything is warm and inviting.

White Sauce: The Perfect Accompaniment

The white sauce complements the mofongo beautifully, adding a creamy and tangy element. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Garlic Mojo (White Sauce):
   • Crush together garlic cloves and salt with a pilón (mortar and pestle) until a wet paste forms.
   • Stir in the following ingredients:
     • Fresh, bitter orange juice
     • Olive oil
     • Ground cumin
     • Oregano
     • Chopped cilantro
     • Add more salt to taste, if desired.
2. Serving Options:
   • Drizzle the garlic mojo over the mofongo for a burst of flavour.
   • Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Final Analysis

In the heart of the Caribbean, where sun-kissed shores meet lush greenery, lies a culinary gem that tantalizes taste buds and warms the soul: Shrimp Mofongo with White Sauce. This dish transcends mere sustenance; it’s an experience that beckons you to explore the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico through every bite.

Imagine golden-fried plantains, their edges crisped to perfection, mashed with garlic and love. And nestled atop this flavorful mound? Plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a velvety white sauce that whispers of indulgence. But this isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of tradition, passion, and the joy of sharing good food.

As you savor the crispy exterior, the creamy interior, and the symphony of tastes, let the rhythm of salsa music carry you away. Close your eyes, feel the ocean breeze, and taste the essence of Puerto Rico. Whether you’re dining with loved ones or savoring solitude, Shrimp Mofongo invites you to indulge in a moment of pure delight.

So gather around the table, raise your fork, and let the flavors transport you. From the bustling streets of San Juan to your own kitchen, this Caribbean delight awaits.