What is Mofongo?

Mofongo is a beloved Puerto Rican dish that transforms green plantains into a flavorful, hearty base. Traditionally made by mashing fried green plantains with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings (chicharrón), mofongo represents the heart of Puerto Rican comfort food. This iconic dish has roots in West African fufu, brought to the Caribbean through the transatlantic slave trade, and evolved over centuries to become a symbol of Puerto Rican culinary identity.

At The Caribe, we honor this rich tradition while adding our own signature touches, creating a mofongo that pays respect to its cultural heritage while offering a unique dining experience.

Our Garlic-Crushed Crispy Mofongo Royale

Our Garlic-Crushed Crispy Mofongo Royale elevates the traditional recipe with careful attention to texture and flavor. We start with fresh green plantains, which we hand-mash to create the perfect consistency—not too smooth, not too chunky, but just right. The plantains are infused with roasted garlic, creating a deep, aromatic base that forms the soul of the dish.

We add crispy pork accents that provide a satisfying crunch and rich, savory notes that complement the plantain's natural sweetness. Our "deep island seasoning" blend brings together spices that honor both Puerto Rican tradition and the broader Caribbean culinary landscape, creating a flavor profile that's both familiar and exciting.

Each order is prepared fresh to order, ensuring that the mofongo arrives at your table with the perfect texture—crispy on the edges, tender in the center, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

Pricing & Ordering

Price: $20

Our Garlic-Crushed Crispy Mofongo Royale is available for dine-in, takeout, and catering orders. You can order online through our website, call us at (619) 472-2400 to place an order, or visit us at our Bonita location at 5080 Bonita Rd Suite H–K.

We're open Thursday through Sunday, 11 AM to 8 PM. For larger orders or catering needs, please call ahead to ensure availability and discuss your requirements.

Pairing Suggestions

Mofongo pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes and beverages. Here are some recommendations:

• With Other Dishes: Try pairing mofongo with our Herb-Roasted Pernil with Signature Arroz con Gandules for a complete Puerto Rican feast, or enjoy it alongside our Legendary Island-Style Jerk Chicken for a fusion experience that spans the Caribbean.
• Beverages: Our signature cocktails, including the Caribe Classic Margarita or Passion Fruit Mojito, complement the rich, savory flavors of mofongo perfectly.
• As a Side: Mofongo can also be enjoyed as a hearty side dish with any of our main entrees, adding a unique Caribbean touch to your meal.

The Cultural Story of Mofongo

Mofongo tells a story of migration, adaptation, and cultural fusion. Its origins trace back to West African fufu, a starchy staple made from pounded yams, plantains, or cassava. When enslaved Africans were brought to the Caribbean, they brought their culinary traditions with them, adapting them to the ingredients available in their new home.

In Puerto Rico, plantains were abundant, and the technique of mashing them evolved into what we now know as mofongo. The addition of garlic, pork, and local seasonings created a dish that became central to Puerto Rican cuisine. Today, mofongo stands as a testament to the resilience of cultural traditions and the beautiful ways in which food can tell stories of connection across continents and generations.

At The Caribe, we celebrate this rich history by preparing mofongo with respect for its origins while embracing the fusion spirit that defines our restaurant—bringing together flavors from across the African diaspora and the Caribbean.

Customer Favorites

Customers who enjoy our mofongo often also order these dishes:

Ready to Try Our Mofongo?

Experience authentic Puerto Rican mofongo at The Caribe. Order online, call us at (619) 472-2400, or visit us in Bonita.