Puerto Rican Mofongo Recipe

 

Ingredients:

For the Mofongo:

• 4 green plantains
• 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pork rinds (chicharrón)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil or lard
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Sauce (optional, but traditional):

• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Yield: Approximately 4 servings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plantains:

• Start by peeling the green plantains. Cut them into 1-inch thick slices.

2. Fry the Plantains:

• In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil or lard over medium-high heat.
• Add the plantain slices to the hot oil and fry them until they are golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side.
• Remove the fried plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

3. Make Mofongo Base:

• In a large mortar and pestle or a sturdy bowl, add the fried plantain slices along with the minced garlic, and optional pork rinds or bacon bits.
• Use the mortar and pestle or a masher to mash the ingredients together until they form a dough-like consistency. You can also add salt and pepper to taste while mashing. Continue mashing until well combined.

4. Shape Mofongo:

• Traditionally, mofongo is shaped into a ball or mound using a pilón (a wooden mortar and pestle), but you can also use your hands to shape it. Wet your hands with a bit of water to prevent sticking.
• If you like, you can make individual portions by shaping smaller mofongo balls.

5. Prepare the Garlic Sauce (optional - Okay not really):

• In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden.
• Stir in the dried oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

6. Serve:

• Place the mofongo on a plate and pour the garlic sauce over the top.
• Mofongo is often served with a side of broth-based soup, such as chicken soup or seafood soup. It can also be served alongside grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables. It's a versatile dish, and you can choose your favorite accompaniments.

7. Enjoy your homemade Puerto Rican Mofongo!

Mofongo is a beloved Puerto Rican dish that's rich in flavor and history. It's a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine and can be customized to suit your taste by adding different meats or seafood on the side. Enjoy!