Creative Plantain Recipes for a Delicious and Healthy Meal

Plantains, a versatile and flavorful ingredient, can transform any meal into a delightful and nutritious experience. Whether you prefer sweet or savory dishes, there are numerous ways to incorporate plantains into your cooking. Below, we explore various plantain recipes that add a unique twist to ordinary meals, making them perfect for any occasion.

Fried Sweet Yellow Plantains w/ Chicken

Start your meal with a flavorful and traditional dish, the Fried Sweet Yellow Plantains with Chicken. This recipe is a tasty combination of sweet plantains and savory chicken, perfectly melded with aromatic spices and herbs to create a delicious side or main dish.

2 ripe yellow plantains 2 chicken breasts, sliced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Cilantro for garnish (optional)

Sauté the chicken breasts in olive oil until they are fully cooked. Meanwhile, slice the plantains and lightly fry them in another pan until soft and golden brown. Serve the chicken alongside the fried plantains, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cilantro.

Plantains with Pineapple

For a dessert or a unique twist on a sweet meal, try the Plantains with Pineapple. This dessert is not only delicious but also indulgent, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

8 boiled ripe plantains 1/2 cup of milk 2 tablespoons of butter 1 shot of Cognac 1 can of pineapple cubes without the juice 1/2 cup of white cheese, cut into small cubes 2 tablespoons of brown sugar Marshmallows

Mash the plantains and mix them with the brown sugar. Blend in the milk and the butter until the mixture becomes smooth. Add a shot of Cognac and mix in the pineapple and the white cheese. Place this mixture in a rectangular Pyrex dish and bake it at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. Cover it with marshmallows and return it to the oven until the marshmallows are melted. This dessert is sure to impress your guests!

Sri Lankan Spicy Ash Plantain Curry

If you're looking for a unique and healthy dish, try the Sri Lankan Spicy Ash Plantain Curry. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with flavor and nutrition.

2 ash plantains, peeled and chopped 2 tablespoons of oil 4 cloves 3 cinnamon sticks 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds A handful of curry leaves 1 teaspoon of turmeric 1 teaspoon of chili powder 1 teaspoon of coriander powder 1 medium onion, chopped 1 red chili, chopped 3 tablespoons of tomato puree 1 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste 1 teaspoon of coconut milk powder 1 teaspoon of mango powder Salt to taste

In a large pan, heat the oil and add the cloves, cinnamon sticks, and fennel seeds. Fry for a few minutes, then add the curry leaves, turmeric, chili powder, and coriander powder. Add the chopped onion and fry until golden. Add the red chili, tomato puree, ginger garlic paste, and coconut milk powder. Lastly, add the ash plantains and cook until tender. Season with salt to taste and serve hot.

Plantain Fritters

For a quick and easy snack, try making Plantain Fritters. These savory fritters can be a great addition to any meal or even enjoyed as a snack.

2 ripe plantains, peeled and grated 1 egg 1/4 cup of flour 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese 1/4 cup of grated red pepper Cilantro for garnish (optional)

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated plantains, egg, flour, and grated cheese and pepper. Mix well. Heat oil in a frying pan and drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, then serve with a sprinkle of cilantro on top.

Incorporating plantains into your diet can provide a wealth of nutritional benefits. They are high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and B-6, and can be a healthier alternative to potatoes. Experiment with different recipes to find the ones that best suit your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you're sautéing them, frying them, or baking them, plantains are sure to add a delicious twist to any meal.

Conclusion

So, the next time you’re looking for a tasty and healthy meal, consider incorporating plantains into your cooking. Their natural sweetness and versatility make them a great ingredient for any dish. Whether you’re making a sweet or savory dish, plantains can add a unique flavor and texture to your meals.