Mofongo is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug from Puerto Rico that wraps you in warmth and deliciousness. Imagine golden, crispy plantains mingling with garlicky goodness, all while releasing an aroma that could make even the most dedicated dieter weak in the knees.

Every time I make mofongo, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter and flavor filled the air. It’s the kind of dish that demands attention, and when served, expect happy faces and full bellies. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, mofongo is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Mofongo is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals
- The combination of flavors creates a savory explosion that will leave everyone wanting more
- Its vibrant presentation adds color to any table setting
- Plus, you can customize it with various fillings for endless possibilities!
I still remember the first time my friends tried my homemade mofongo; their eyes lit up like fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green Plantains: Choose firm green plantains as they are essential for that perfect texture.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a bold flavor—don’t skimp on it!
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Pork Cracklings (Chicharrón): These add a delightful crunch and richness that elevates mofongo to another level.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for drizzling and frying; it enhances the flavor beautifully.
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Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This helps achieve the ideal consistency and infuses additional flavor into your mofongo.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together perfectly.
- Mofongo Puerto Rican is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug!
- The blend of garlic, fried plantains, and seasoning creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth
- Perfect for gatherings, this dish brings people together over laughter and delicious bites
- Remember to let your plantains ripen fully; they should be yellow with dark spots for optimal sweetness
- Use a mortar and pestle if you want an authentic mash
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasonings perfectly!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
- 3 green plantains (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pork cracklings (chicharrón)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Peel the green plantains and slice them into thick pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- In a large bowl, mash the fried plantains with minced garlic and pork cracklings using a fork or mortar and pestle until combined but slightly chunky.
- Gradually add chicken or vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve by shaping the mofongo into domes on plates, garnishing with extra chicharrón or drizzling more olive oil on top.
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare your Ingredients: Start by peeling the green plantains and cutting them into thick slices. Don’t worry about making them perfect; rustic is charming here!
Fry the Plantains: Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices until golden brown, around 4-5 minutes per side. They should be crispy but tender inside.
Mash with Garlic: While still warm, place fried plantains in a bowl with minced garlic and chicharrón. Use a sturdy fork or mortar and pestle to mash everything together until combined but not completely smooth.
Add Broth: Gradually pour chicken or vegetable broth into the mixture until you reach your desired consistency. Aim for creamy yet slightly chunky—this creates an irresistible texture!
Scoop and Serve: Transfer your mashed mofongo onto serving plates, shaping it into domes if you’re feeling fancy! Garnish with extra chicharrón or drizzle more olive oil on top for added flair.
With its unique flavor profile and comforting texture, mofongo is guaranteed to become one of your favorite recipes! Enjoy every delightful bite as you savor this Puerto Rican treasure!
You Must Know
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by frying the plantains until golden, then mash them with garlic and broth for the perfect texture. This sequence ensures each layer of flavor melds beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pork cracklings for shrimp or chicken for a different twist. Adding your favorite spices can also enhance the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve texture without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
Creating mofongo Puerto Rican reminds me of family dinners filled with laughter and love, where everyone eagerly awaited their turn to dig in.
FAQ
What is mofongo Puerto Rican made of?
Mofongo Puerto Rican is made from fried green plantains, garlic, broth, and typically pork cracklings.
Can I make mofongo vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute pork cracklings with sautéed vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I keep mofongo from getting soggy?
Ensure your plantains are properly fried and avoid adding too much broth during mashing.
Mofongo
Mofongo is a beloved Puerto Rican dish that offers a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. This savory treat combines crispy fried green plantains with garlic and pork cracklings, resulting in a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.