Mofongo (Garlic-flavored mashed plantains)

Mofongo, not to be confused with mondongo, is a spicy dish, easy to prepare and that has great following among Dominicans. There are many restaurants throughout the island that serve the many varieties of this dish. I'm presenting here the traditional recipe.

Time: 90 Mins
Difficulty: Advanced
Serve: 6 people

Before starting to cook: Peel the plantains and cut into 1/2-inch thick pieces.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of pork cracklings
• 1 cup of oil
• 2 1/2 teaspoons of salt
• 4 unripe plantains
• 4 cups of prepared beef stock
• 2 tablespoons of mashed garlic

Preparation:

1. Sauté the garlic with a teaspoon of oil. Reserve.
   
2. In a deep frying pan heat the oil and fry the plantains till golden brown. Using a pilón (wooden mortar) mash the plantains, garlic and cracklings together. Serve preferably in a pilón garnished with the beef stock.