How to Make Mofongo

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil.

   Heat about an inch or two (2.5cm
   - 5cm) height of oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 350ºF/180ºC.
   
   If you don't have a thermometer, heat the oil until you can place a slice of plantain into the pan and it immediately starts bubbling as it fries.
2. 2

   Step 2: Peel the plantains.

   This is done by making a shallow cut along one of the lengthwise "ribs" of the plantain and carefully peeling the skin.
   
   This is made a little easier if you soak the plantain in hot water for no more than two or three minutes to soften the skin. ,, Do not fry them too much; if they turn brown they may not have the right consistency.
   
   You want them cooked through, not toasted. ,, Add a couple of garlic cloves, a few pieces of pork rind (the idea is to make it a little crackly without overpowering the taste), a tablespoon of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste into the pilón.
   
   Mash the mixture again.
   
   Alternatively, you can use a food processor with a cutting blade, though the consistency of the finished product will not be the same and may require a bit more olive oil. , If you will be serving it by itself, you're done! Just add to a serving plate along with salad, mains, etc.
   
   If you will be serving it with some type of filling, use your fist or a large spoon to make a concave bowl shape on the rounded side, and place the filling into it.
   
   Enjoy! ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Slice the plantain across its width into one-inch (2.5cm) round slices.

4. 4

   Step 4: Fry the plantain slices in batches until they become dark yellow.

5. 5

   Step 5: Set the fried pieces in a bowl lined with paper towels to drain and dry.

6. 6

   Step 6: Place four or five pieces of fried plantain in the pilón (wooden mortar and pestle) and mash them.

7. 7

   Step 7: Remove the mixture from the pilón and shape it into a half-ball (round with a flat bottom).

8. 8

   Step 8: Finished.

Detailed Guide

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