Indulge in the tantalizing taste of the Caribbean with our traditional Dominican Republic Mofongo. This beloved dish is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the vibrant culture and rich flavors of the Dominican Republic. Made from fried green plantains mashed with garlic, olive oil, and savory seasonings, then topped with your choice of succulent meats or seafood, our Mofongo is a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the sun-kissed beaches of the Dominican Republic with every bite. Whether you're a seasoned food enthusiast or a curious culinary explorer, our Mofongo promises a deliciously unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the essence of Dominican cuisine

Here's a recipe for authentic Dominican Republic Mofongo:

Ingredients:

• 4 green plantains
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of pork cracklings (chicharrones), crushed
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Protein of your choice (shrimp, chicken, or pork) for serving

Instructions:

1- Peel the green plantains and cut them into 1-inch slices.

2- In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat for frying.

3- Fry the plantain slices in batches until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

4- Once all the plantains are fried, place them in a large mortar and pestle or a sturdy bowl.

5- Add the minced garlic to the plantains in the mortar or bowl.

6- Using the pestle or a masher, begin mashing the plantains and garlic together until they are well combined and have a smooth consistency.

7- Add the crushed pork cracklings to the mashed plantains and continue mashing until everything is evenly mixed.

8- Season the Mofongo with salt to taste, adjusting as needed.

9- Shape the Mofongo mixture into individual balls or serve it in a mound on a plate.

10- In a separate pan, cook your chosen protein (shrimp, chicken, or pork) according to your preference.

11- Serve the Mofongo alongside the cooked protein, allowing diners to enjoy the flavorful combination of mashed plantains, garlic, and pork cracklings with their protein of choice.

12- Enjoy your homemade Dominican Republic Mofongo as a delicious and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values for the main ingredients used in the Dominican Republic Mofongo recipe:

Green plantains (per medium-sized plantain):

• Calories: 218
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 4.6g
• Protein: 1.6g
• Fat: 0.4g
• Vitamin A: 1127 IU
• Vitamin C: 23.2mg
• Potassium: 893mg

benefits:

• Rich source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
• High in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
• Good source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy vision and a strong immune system.
• Contains potassium, an electrolyte important for regulating fluid balance and muscle function.

Garlic (per clove, minced):

• Calories: 4
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0.1g
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Vitamin C: 1.0mg

benefits:

• Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping to boost the immune system and fight off infections.
• Contains antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
• May help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.
• Adds flavor to dishes without the need for excessive salt or unhealthy condiments.

Pork cracklings (per cup):

• Calories: 840
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 96g

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Provides a rich source of fat, which can contribute to feelings of satiety and help maintain energy levels.
• Contains various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins like niacin and riboflavin, as well as zinc and selenium.
• Adds a crunchy texture and savory flavor to dishes like Mofongo.

Vegetable oil (for frying, per tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 14g

benefits:

• Contains heart-healthy unsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases when consumed in moderation.
• Provides a concentrated source of energy, important for fueling daily activities.
• Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Facilitates the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands of ingredients and cooking methods. Additionally, the nutritional values for the protein (shrimp, chicken, or pork) used as a serving accompaniment will depend on the specific type of protein and cooking method employed