20 Brazilian Plantain Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
The Brazilian plantain recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that has been enjoyed for generations in Brazil. This popular recipe features plantains, a member of the banana family, which are widely available throughout Brazil and other tropical regions. Plantains are a staple in Brazilian cuisine and are known for their rich flavor and starchy texture, making them the perfect ingredient for a variety of dishes. In this article, we will explore the history and cultural significance of plantains in Brazil, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to make this mouth-watering dish at home.
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Pork, Jalapeno, Yellow Onion, Garlic Clove
Add a tropical twist to your breakfast routine with this delicious pork and plantain Cuban breakfast hash. The combination of savory pork, sweet plantains, and flavorful spices will have your taste buds dancing in the morning. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover pork from last night's dinner.
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Turkey Pastelón (Sweet Plantain Lasagna)
Main Ingredients: Ground Turkey, Onion, Minced Garlic, Tomato, Green Bell
This Puerto Rican dish puts a unique twist on traditional lasagna by using sweet plantains instead of pasta. The layers of ground turkey, plantains, and cheese are sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and comforting meal. Serve it with a side of rice and beans for a complete and delicious dinner.
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Plantain Truffles
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Pitted Dried Dates, Hot Water, Coconut Oil
Yes, you read that right – plantain truffles! These bite-sized treats are a great alternative to traditional chocolate truffles and are perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Made with mashed plantains, cocoa powder, and shredded coconut, these truffles are simple yet indulgent. Enjoy them as a dessert or snack.
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Traditional Plantain Mofongo
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Plantains, Garlic Paste, Pork Rinds
Mofongo is a popular Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains, garlic, and pork cracklings. It's often served as a side dish or can be stuffed with meat or seafood for a hearty and filling main course. This traditional recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons.
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Baked Sweet Plantain
Main Ingredients: Plantain, Paprika, Sea Salt, Spray Oil
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to fried plantains, try this baked sweet plantain recipe. It's easy to make and gives you the same sweet and caramelized flavor without all the oil. Serve it as a side dish or snack, or even use it as a topping for your favorite yogurt or ice cream.
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Crazy Easy Pan-Fried Plantain Patties
Main Ingredients: Plantain, Tapioca Flour, Cinnamon, Ghee
These pan-fried plantain patties are a great way to use up any ripe plantains you have on hand. They're crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect side dish or snack. Plus, with only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, they're incredibly easy to make.
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Plantain Chips
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Sea Salt, Canola Oil
Plantain chips are a staple snack in many Caribbean countries and are a delicious and healthy alternative to potato chips. They're thinly sliced plantains that are fried until crispy and seasoned with salt. You can enjoy them on their own or use them as a dipping vessel for your favorite salsa or guacamole.
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Plantain Rice with Chicken and Salsa Verde
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Salt, Coarsely Ground Black Pepper, Cajun
This plantain rice with chicken and salsa verde is a tasty and unique twist on traditional rice dishes. The plantains are cooked with chicken broth, giving them a savory and flavorful base, and topped with juicy shredded chicken and tangy salsa verde. It's a complete and satisfying meal that is sure to please.
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Spicy and Sweet Fried Ripe Plantain
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Ginger Powder, Onion Powder, Sugar, Salt
For those who like a little heat in their meals, this spicy and sweet fried ripe plantain recipe is a must-try. The plantains are fried and then coated in a delicious sauce made with honey, garlic, and chili flakes. It's the perfect combination of sweet and spicy and makes for a great side dish or snack.
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AIP Plantain Sandwich Rounds
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Sea Salt, Tapioca Flour
If you're following the AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) diet, these plantain sandwich rounds are a great alternative to traditional bread. Made with plantains, coconut flour, and tapioca starch, they're gluten-free, grain-free, and paleo-friendly. Use them as a base for your favorite sandwich or top them with your favorite toppings for a tasty snack.
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PLANTAIN CAKE/PLANTAIN BREAD (VIDEO)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Sugar, Butter, Baking Powder, Plantains
Why settle for plain old banana bread when you can make this delicious plantain cake/bread instead? Made with ripe plantains, eggs, and a few other simple ingredients, this cake is moist, flavorful, and perfect for a weekend brunch or afternoon snack. Check out the video for a step-by-step tutorial on how to make it.
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Puerto Rican Plantain Lasagna (Pastelon)
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Eggs, Ground Beef, Yellow Onion, Red Pepper
If you loved the idea of a sweet plantain lasagna but want to try a different variation, this Puerto Rican plantain lasagna, also known as pastelon, is the perfect recipe for you. It's made with layers of ground beef, plantains, and cheese, and is topped with a creamy and flavorful sauce. It's a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Plantain and Apple Fritters
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Apple, Ground Cinnamon, Coconut Oil
These plantain and apple fritters are a delicious and unique twist on traditional fritters. The combination of sweet plantains and tart apples creates a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, they're baked, not fried, making them a healthier option for a sweet treat. Serve them with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
These fried sweet plantain slices, also known as plátanos maduros fritos, are a staple in many Latin American countries. They're a simple and delicious side dish or snack that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite main course. The secret to getting them perfectly caramelized is to use ripe plantains.
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Chicken, Minced Garlic, Lime, Himalayan
These garlic lime chicken plantain fritters are a great way to use up any leftover chicken you have in the fridge. Made with shredded chicken, mashed plantains, and a few other ingredients, these fritters are full of flavor and are perfect for those following the paleo or AIP diet. Serve them as a tasty snack or as a protein-packed breakfast option.
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Plantain Pizza Crust
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Large Eggs, Garlic Cloves, Almond Meal
Yes, you read that right – plantain pizza crust! This gluten-free and grain-free crust is made with mashed plantains, cheese, and a few other basic ingredients, making it a healthier option for pizza night. Load it up with your favorite toppings and enjoy a guilt-free and delicious pizza.
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Sweet Plantain – Plantain Fudge
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Jaggery, Refined Coconut Oil, Cardamom Powder
For those with a serious sweet tooth, this sweet plantain fudge is a must-try. Made with mashed plantains, coconut oil, and a touch of honey, it's a healthier alternative to traditional fudge but still satisfies those cravings for something sweet. Keep it in the fridge for a quick and tasty treat anytime.
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Baked Plantain Frittata(Baked plantain and eggs)
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Medium Onion, Scotch Bonnet Pepper, Green
This baked plantain frittata is a great way to use up any leftover plantains and makes for a delicious and filling breakfast or brunch option. The combination of plantains, eggs, and cheese creates a savory and satisfying dish that is sure to please. Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite veggies or protein.
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Plantain Bread/Cake
Main Ingredients: Plantains, Baking Soda, Baking Powder, Salt, Cake
Whether you call it bread or cake, this plantain baked good is a delicious and versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. Made with mashed plantains, eggs, and a few other ingredients, it's a healthier option than traditional bread or cake and can be easily customized to your liking.
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Vegan Plantain Bread/Plantain Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, Plantain, Egg
For our vegan friends, this plantain bread/cake recipe is a must-try. Made with mashed plantains, almond flour, and a few other basic ingredients, it's a healthier and plant-based alternative to traditional bread or cake. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a tasty and guilt-free treat.
The History and Cultural Significance of Plantains in Brazil
Plantains have been a part of Brazilian cuisine since the early days of colonization. They were introduced to Brazil by the Portuguese in the 16th century and quickly became a staple in the diet of enslaved Africans brought to the country. Today, plantains are grown throughout Brazil and are a key ingredient in many traditional Brazilian dishes.
In Brazilian culture, plantains are highly regarded for their versatility and nutritional value. They are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a popular choice for both savory and sweet dishes. Plantains are also an important part of Brazilian festivities, often being featured in celebratory dishes during holidays and special occasions.
The Perfect Plantains for Your Recipe
When it comes to making the perfect Brazilian plantain dish, it's important to choose the right plantains. Look for ripe plantains that are yellow with black spots. These are the sweetest and most flavorful plantains that will give your dish the perfect balance of sweetness and starchiness.
To prepare the plantains, start by peeling them and cutting them into 1-inch thick slices. You can then fry them, bake them, or boil them, depending on the recipe you are following.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Brazilian Plantains
Now that you have your ripe plantains ready, it's time to make the dish. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to making Brazilian plantains:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the plantain slices and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
3. Remove the plantains from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
4. Serve the plantains hot, sprinkled with a pinch of salt or sugar, depending on your preference.
Additional Tips and Variations
While fried plantains are the most common way to prepare this dish, there are other variations that you can try. For a healthier option, you can bake the plantains in the oven instead of frying them. You can also add different spices and seasonings, such as cinnamon or chili powder, to give your plantains a unique flavor.
In addition to being served as a side dish, Brazilian plantains are also commonly used in desserts, such as plantain cake or plantain pudding. So don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different recipes using this versatile ingredient.
In conclusion, the Brazilian plantain recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the rich flavors and cultural significance of Brazilian cuisine. With just a few simple steps, you can recreate this traditional dish in the comfort of your own home. So go ahead and give it a try, and savor the unique taste of Brazilian plantains.
