Get ready to experience the versatility and deliciousness of green plantains! These starchy, slightly sweet fruits are a staple ingredient in many Caribbean and Latin American cuisines. From savory dishes to sweet treats, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering green plantain recipes that will elevate your cooking game and impress your family and friends.
Whether you’re looking for a flavorful side dish or a show-stopping main course, our collection of recipes has got you covered. From classic favorites like fried plantain chips and tostones, to innovative dishes like green plantain and shrimp ceviche and spicy curry, there’s something for every taste and occasion.
In this article, we’ll explore the many uses of green plantains and provide you with a wealth of inspiration for your next meal.
Fried Green Plantain Chips
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these crispy and addictive fried green plantain chips! This simple recipe yields a deliciously crunchy treat perfect for munching on the go or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green plantains
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Garlic powder or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Peel the green plantains and slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil in batches, being mindful of the temperature.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove the chips from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle with salt and any additional seasonings you like.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on batch size)
Green Plantain and Black Bean Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the sweetness of green plantains with the earthiness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green plantains
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, avocado, or sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Place the plantain slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the tacos by placing a spoonful of the black bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a few slices of roasted plantain.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Green Plantain Mash
Get ready to elevate your side dish game with this creamy and aromatic Garlic Butter Green Plantain Mash! This Caribbean-inspired recipe is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green plantains
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced plantains and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the plantains are tender and mashed. Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Plantain and Shrimp Ceviche
This refreshing ceviche combines the natural sweetness of green plantains with the succulent flavor of shrimp, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack. With its vibrant colors and zesty notes, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green plantains
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the plantains into 1-inch pieces and soak them in a mixture of lime juice and water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, cilantro, jalapeño, and salt.
3. Once the plantains are fully softened, drain and add them to the bowl with the shrimp mixture.
4. Stir gently to combine, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including marinating time)
Crispy Green Plantain Tostones
Transform green plantains into crispy, golden brown tostones with this simple recipe. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these crunchy treats are a delicious twist on traditional plantain cooking.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green plantains
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Carefully add 2-3 plantain slices to the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the skillet.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tostones are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the tostones from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle with salt and any desired seasonings. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total (depending on the number of tostones you fry at once)
Green Plantain and Cheese Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful Green Plantain and Cheese Empanadas. A perfect blend of Caribbean and Latin American flavors, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green plantains
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and slice them into thin rounds.
2. Roll out the empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place a few slices of plantain on one half of the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the plantain, followed by chopped cilantro and a pinch of paprika.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges to seal.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry empanadas for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Green Plantain Curry
This creamy and spicy curry is a flavorful twist on traditional plantain dishes. The combination of green plantains, aromatic spices, and a hint of heat will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green plantains
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and slice into 1-inch rounds.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add plantain slices and coconut milk; stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let curry cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until plantains are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
7. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Green Plantain and Chicken Stew
This flavorful stew combines tender chicken with sweet and savory green plantains, onions, and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2-3 medium-sized green plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chicken, curry powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the green plantains, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the plantains are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Green Plantain Fries
Transform regular fries into a healthier, flavorful twist with baked green plantain fries! These crispy treats are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 green plantains, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: Additional seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, toss plantain fries with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
4. If desired, add additional seasonings and toss again.
5. Spread the plantain fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Plantain and Coconut Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Caribbean cuisine, combining the natural sweetness of green plantains with the rich flavor of coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 green plantains, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped plantains and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until plantains are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Plantain Pancakes with Honey Drizzle
Start your day off right with a twist on traditional pancakes – these green plantain pancakes are crispy, flavorful, and drizzled with sweet honey goodness!
Ingredients:
– 2 large green plantains, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– Vegetable oil for greasing the pan
– Honey, warmed (for drizzling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add milk and egg to the dry ingredients; stir until combined.
4. Add plantain slices to the batter; toss to coat evenly.
5. Grease the pan with vegetable oil; cook pancakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm pancakes drizzled with warmed honey.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Plantain and Beef Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the sweetness of green plantains with the savory taste of beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large green plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
4. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the sliced green plantains and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until they start to brown.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper.
7. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Plantain and Egg Breakfast Hash
A flavorful and textured breakfast dish that combines the natural sweetness of green plantains with savory eggs and crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green plantains, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they start to brown.
5. Add the diced green plantains and cook for about 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
6. Make 4 wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each well.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Plantain and Avocado Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this recipe combines the subtle sweetness of green plantains with the creaminess of ripe avocados. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green plantains, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced plantain rounds and lime juice. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the plantains to soften.
2. Add the diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and salt to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh.
Green Plantain and Pork Belly Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this innovative fusion of Caribbean and Latin American flavors. Succulent pork belly and sweet green plantains are perfectly balanced in each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 ripe green plantains, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and lime juice. Add pork belly cubes; toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Meanwhile, thread plantain slices onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill pork belly skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with green plantain skewers.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Plantain and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted green plantains with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a crunchy bell pepper package. A perfect twist on traditional stuffed peppers!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded
– 2 medium green plantains, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the plantain slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add spinach leaves; cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the plantain mixture, followed by the spinach mixture.
6. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Plantain and Chickpea Patties
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this innovative recipe that combines the natural sweetness of green plantains with the savory goodness of chickpeas. These crispy patties are perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green plantains, peeled and chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mash the plantains with a fork until they resemble mashed potatoes.
3. Add chickpeas, breadcrumbs, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired patty size.
6. Shape each portion into a patty.
7. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Plantain and Mango Salsa
Bring a taste of the Caribbean to your table with this refreshing salsa that combines the natural sweetness of mango with the earthy flavor of green plantains. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 large green plantain, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, green plantain, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Green Plantain and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of Caribbean flavors and textures, featuring tender green plantains and nutritious lentils. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green plantains, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the chopped plantains, lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the plantains are tender and the lentils are cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Green Plantain and Chocolate Pudding
Combine the natural sweetness of green plantains with the richness of dark chocolate, and you’ll get a unique dessert that’s sure to delight. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green plantains
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the sliced plantains to the mixture and stir until they’re fully coated.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (6-ounce) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the plantains are tender.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
9. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the pudding and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of green plantains with these 20 flavorful recipes! From crispy Fried Green Plantain Chips to savory Green Plantain and Shrimp Ceviche, there’s something for every occasion. Try Garlic Butter Green Plantain Mash as a side dish or Green Plantain Pancakes with Honey Drizzle for a sweet breakfast treat. For a main course, indulge in Green Plantain and Chicken Stew or Spicy Green Plantain Curry. These recipes showcase the plantain’s ability to adapt to various cuisines and flavors. Get inspired by this collection of creative and delicious green plantain dishes!