Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise? Look no further! Sweet plantains are a staple ingredient in many Caribbean and Latin American cuisines, and we’re excited to share 18 delicious recipe ideas that showcase their natural sweetness. From classic fried plantains with a honey drizzle to creative twists like sweet plantain and black bean empanadas, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors of the tropics, featuring mouthwatering dishes like coconut-glazed muffins, grilled plantains with lime and chili, and even sweet plantain bread pudding with rum sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Fried Sweet Plantains with Honey Drizzle
Transform sweet plantains into a crispy and golden delight, paired with a drizzle of warm honey for the perfect combination.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe sweet plantains
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Optional: powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Dip each plantain round into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated plantain slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the fried plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Drizzle warm honey over the fried plantains.
8. Garnish with powdered sugar, if desired.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Black Bean Empanadas
Sweet Plantain and Black Bean Empanadas Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these sweet and savory empanadas filled with caramelized plantains, creamy black beans, and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 package empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize the plantains with brown sugar and cinnamon over medium heat until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cooked black beans with a pinch of salt.
4. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
5. Spoon a small amount of caramelized plantain mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Top with a spoonful of black beans and fold the other half of the dough over to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Brush edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut-Glazed Sweet Plantain Muffins
Transform your morning with these moist and flavorful muffins, infused with the sweetness of plantains and the creaminess of coconut. Perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe plantains, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
– Confectioners’ sugar (for glazing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed plantains, melted butter, egg, coconut milk, and shredded coconut. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow muffins to cool completely before glazing with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Sweet Plantain Pancakes with Cinnamon Butter
Start your day with a delicious twist on traditional pancakes using sweet plantains and a hint of cinnamon. These fluffy treats are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Cinnamon butter (recipe below)
Pancakes:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed plantains, egg, milk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cinnamon Butter:
– 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix softened butter with cinnamon until well combined. Spread or pipe onto pancakes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on skillet or griddle size)
Grilled Sweet Plantains with Lime and Chili
Get ready to experience the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors! This recipe is a twist on traditional plantain dishes, elevating them to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe sweet plantains
– 2 limes, juiced
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the plantains into 1-inch slices.
3. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt.
4. Brush both sides of the plantain slices with olive oil, then toss them in the lime-chili mixture until evenly coated.
5. Grill the plantain slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop nice grill marks and caramelize slightly.
6. Remove from heat and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
7. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of chili flakes and lime wedges (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Enjoy your Grilled Sweet Plantains with Lime and Chili!
Sweet Plantain and Cheese Stuffed Arepas
Sweet Plantain and Cheese Stuffed Arepas Recipe
Looking for a delicious twist on traditional Latin American arepas? This sweet plantain and cheese stuffed recipe is sure to impress! The sweetness of the ripe plantains pairs perfectly with melted cheese, all wrapped up in crispy cornmeal pockets.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe plantains
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
– 12-15 cornmeal arepas
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Cut the plantains into 1-inch slices and sauté until caramelized, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, butter one side of each arepa.
4. Assemble the arepas by spreading a spoonful of cheese on the unbuttered half, then topping with a few pieces of plantain and finishing with a sprinkle of queso fresco and cilantro.
5. Fold the buttered half over to enclose the filling, pressing gently.
6. Fry the arepas in hot oil for about 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and golden.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Plantain Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce
This rich dessert combines the natural sweetness of ripe plantains with the warmth of rum, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
For the bread pudding:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 ripe plantains, mashed
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
For the rum sauce:
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, plantains, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. For the rum sauce, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add rum, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Serve warm bread pudding with warm rum sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Chorizo Skewers
Sweet Plantain and Chorizo Skewers: A flavorful fusion of Caribbean and Spanish cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 8 oz chorizo sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and cumin.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the plantain slices.
4. Thread 2-3 plantain pieces, followed by 1 chorizo round, onto skewers.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until plantains are caramelized and chorizo is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving. Enjoy!
Sweet Plantain and Coconut Rice Bowls
Experience the perfect blend of Caribbean flavors with this sweet and savory dish, featuring caramelized plantains and creamy coconut rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the plantains into 1-inch slices and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
4. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
5. In a large saucepan, combine cooked rice, coconut milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir over medium heat until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is creamy, about 5-7 minutes.
6. To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of coconut rice on a plate or bowl, top with caramelized plantain slices, and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Plantain French Toast with Maple Syrup
Sweet Plantain French Toast with Maple Syrup Recipe
Start your day off right with a sweet and indulgent twist on classic French toast, featuring the natural sweetness of ripe plantains and the richness of pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe plantains, mashed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Add the mashed plantains to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Dip each slice of bread into the plantain-cream mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place the bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with pure maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Shrimp Ceviche
Experience the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this refreshing ceviche recipe, featuring sweet plantains and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains, peeled and diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced plantains, shrimp, lime juice, red onion, and garlic.
2. Stir gently to combine, making sure the ingredients are well coated with lime juice.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, accompanied by tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (marinating time)
Sweet Plantain and Goat Cheese Crostini
Sweet Plantain and Goat Cheese Crostini Recipe
A sweet and savory combination that will delight your taste buds, this recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe plantains
– 1 log of goat cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the plantains into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Place the plantain slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the plantains are caramelized and tender.
5. Meanwhile, crumble the goat cheese into small pieces.
6. Once the plantains are done, let them cool slightly before topping each slice with a dollop of goat cheese and a drizzle of honey.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Sweet Plantain Chips with Spicy Dip
Transform ripe plantains into crispy, sweet chips paired with a bold and spicy dip. Perfect for snacking or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
For the chips:
– 2-3 ripe plantains
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the dip:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the plantain slices in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Meanwhile, mix together the dip ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve the baked plantain chips warm with the spicy dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Chicken Curry
Sweet Plantain and Chicken Curry Recipe
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe plantains with the rich flavors of chicken curry, resulting in a deliciously unique dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the plantain slices and coconut milk. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until plantains are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Dulce de Leche Crepes
These crepes are a delicious twist on the classic French dessert, filled with the sweetness of ripe plantains and dulce de leche.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into thin rounds
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– Butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in a small amount of batter and tilt the pan to evenly coat the bottom.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
5. Loosen with a spatula and flip. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Repeat with remaining batter, filling crepes with plantain slices and dulce de leche as you go.
7. Serve warm with melted butter drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Bacon Wrapped Bites
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and savory bites, featuring caramelized plantains wrapped in crispy bacon and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe plantains
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
3. In a pan, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate pan, caramelize the plantain slices with brown sugar, cinnamon powder, salt, and pepper for about 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Wrap each caramelized plantain round with a piece of cooked bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the wrapped bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae
Enjoy a tropical twist on the classic sundae with this unique combination of sweet plantains, creamy vanilla ice cream, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the plantains into 1-inch thick rounds, then bake for 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
3. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a bowl.
4. Top the ice cream with baked plantain slices, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of honey.
5. If desired, add whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Pineapple Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a refreshing and healthy breakfast bowl that combines the natural sweetness of plantains and pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe plantain, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or chopped fresh mint
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the plantain, pineapple, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to thicken the mixture.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
4. Add your preferred toppings (sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or chopped fresh mint).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
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Get ready to indulge in the sweet and delicious world of plantains! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this tropical fruit. From classic dishes like Fried Sweet Plantains with Honey Drizzle and Grilled Sweet Plantains with Lime and Chili, to innovative creations such as Coconut- Glazed Sweet Plantain Muffins and Sweet Plantain French Toast with Maple Syrup, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet treats or savory delights, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.