Mofongo is a Puerto Rican delight that tickles your taste buds with its garlicky goodness and plantain perfection. Imagine sinking your teeth into a dish that’s crispy on the outside, yet fluffy and savory on the inside. The aroma of fried garlic wafts through the air, teasing you to dive in.

Growing up, I remember family gatherings where mofongo was the star of the show. It brought us together, filling our hearts (and stomachs) with joy. Whether it’s a casual Sunday meal or a festive occasion, this dish guarantees smiles all around.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Mofongo is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any home cook
- Its rich flavor profile combines sweetness from the plantains with savory garlic notes
- The golden-brown appearance makes it a stunning centerpiece for any meal
- Versatile enough to pair with meats or serve as a vegetarian delight
One family dinner, my cousin jokingly claimed he could eat an entire bowl by himself—and he nearly did! We still laugh about that night every time mofongo hits our table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green Plantains: Select firm, green plantains as they provide the perfect texture when mashed.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is essential; it infuses the mofongo with rich flavor.
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Pork Cracklings (Chicharrón): These add a delightful crunch and savory depth to your mofongo.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for frying; it enhances the overall flavor.
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Salt: Just a pinch will do; adjust according to your personal taste preference.
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Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This adds moisture and richness when blending the mofongo.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Plantains: Begin by peeling two green plantains using a sharp knife. Cut them into thick slices to ensure even cooking.
Fry the Plantains: Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add plantain slices and fry them until golden brown on all sides.
Add Garlic and Chicharrón: Once fried, drain excess oil and toss those gorgeous plantains into a bowl. Add minced garlic cloves and pork cracklings while they’re still warm for maximum flavor absorption.
Mash It Up!: Using a mortar and pestle or fork, mash everything together until you achieve a chunky consistency. Drizzle in some chicken broth as needed for moisture—but don’t overdo it!
Shape Your Mofongo: Transfer the mixture onto a plate or bowl and shape it as desired. A small mound works beautifully for presentation!
Serve and Enjoy!: Garnish with extra chicharrón on top if you’re feeling fancy, then dig in while it’s hot! The crispy exterior paired with soft inside will have everyone asking for seconds.
Mofongo is more than just food; it’s an experience filled with memories and flavors that transport you straight to Puerto Rico’s vibrant streets. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and make this dish today!
You Must Know
- The heart of mofongo puerto rican lies in the plantains; use green ones for that perfect texture
- This dish is a crowd-pleaser, bursting with flavor and cultural significance
- Pair it with garlicky broth or crispy chicharrón to elevate your experience further!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the green plantains until they’re tender, then mash them with garlic and pork cracklings for an authentic taste. Cook in batches to ensure even mashing, and don’t forget that love is the secret ingredient.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pork cracklings for sautéed shrimp or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. You can also sprinkle in some cheese or spices like cumin to make your mofongo puerto rican uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mofongo puerto rican in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to retain moisture and fluffiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect mofongo, always use green plantains; they provide the right texture
- Avoid overcooking them as it affects their mashing quality
- Don’t skimp on garlic; it’s essential for that authentic flavor explosion!
I remember the first time I made mofongo puerto rican; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. They even begged me to teach them how to make it, turning my kitchen into a lively cooking class filled with laughter.
FAQ
What is mofongo puerto rican traditionally served with?
Mofongo puerto rican pairs well with seafood, chicken, or a rich garlicky broth.
Can I make mofongo puerto rican ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and store it, then reheat when ready to serve for convenience.
What if I don’t have pork cracklings?
You can substitute them with sautéed vegetables or meats of your choice for added flavor.
Mofongo
Mofongo is a beloved Puerto Rican dish that marries the crispy texture of fried green plantains with the rich flavor of garlic and pork cracklings. Perfect for any occasion, this hearty delight not only brings smiles to the table but also creates cherished memories. Easy to prepare, mofongo can be enjoyed as a side or main dish, making it versatile for family gatherings or casual dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients
- 2 green plantains
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup pork cracklings (chicharrón)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Peel and slice the green plantains into thick rounds.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry plantain slices until golden brown.
- Drain excess oil and place fried plantains in a bowl, adding minced garlic and pork cracklings while warm.
- Mash together with a mortar and pestle or fork, adding chicken broth as needed for moisture.
- Shape the mixture on a plate and garnish with extra chicharrón if desired. Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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