When you’re craving Latin cuisine, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of multicultural and mouthwatering dinner choices. One option with deep roots in Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic is mofongo. If you have yet to taste this delicacy at a Latin fusion restaurant, below is some background information. 

Understanding Mofongo

What Is Mofongo?

Mofongo is a succulent dish with deep-fried and mashed green plantains as the primary ingredient. This item, which is served as a tight ball, can be prepared with a variety of additional ingredients. Along with garlic, olive oil, and chicharrones or crunchy pork skin, you can combine mashed plantains with fried bacon, seafood, beef, chicken, or vegetables. 

What Are the Origins of This Dish?

Mofongo is a dish with deep roots in Puerto Rico. While the exact origins of this meal are often debated, many believe the dish was created and gained popularity in Puerto Rico due to the influence and influx of plantains and other starchy root vegetables from West and Central Africa. With ingredients from Africa and cooking traditions and recipes from the islands, mofongo has a unique multicultural backstory and is still a staple in Latin cuisine and beyond. 

How Is It Served in Restaurants?

Nowadays, restaurants and even food trucks continue to prepare and serve mofongo in various ways. While the protein mixed in with plantains and chicharrones may change, mofongo is usually served in a chicken broth soup and alongside fried meat. Mofongo with shrimp, skirt steak, or chicken drumsticks is a popular choice as well. 

When you’re craving mofongo and authentic Latin cuisine in a lively environment, Mamajuana Café Paterson offers delicious dishes to satisfy your taste buds. Based in the heart of Paterson, NJ, this local mainstay has been serving delicious Spanish, Latin, and Asian fusion using traditional ingredients and recipes since 2006. To make a reservation, call (973) 925-5172. For more information on their dinner and bar menu, visit their website.