Avocado (Butterless) Marmalade and Plantains

Introduction

History

The concept of combining avocados with sweet elements might seem modern, but it has roots in various cultures that have been utilizing avocados in diverse ways for centuries. Avocados are native to south-central Mexico and have been a part of the indigenous diet for thousands of years. The idea of avocado marmalade is a relatively new innovation, showcasing the versatility of avocados beyond their traditional uses in salads, guacamole, or as a side dish. This recipe is a testament to the evolving nature of culinary practices, blending traditional ingredients with contemporary flavors.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Avocado (Butterless) Marmalade and Plantains, consider the following tips:

- Choose ripe avocados that are soft to the touch for a creamy texture.

- Use high-quality preserves or marmalade for the best flavor.

- If using an electric mixer, start at a low speed and gradually increase to prevent the mixture from becoming too airy.

- For a smoother marmalade, you can blend the avocado and cream cheese mixture before adding the preserves.

- Serve the marmalade chilled for a refreshing taste.

Serving Suggestions

This marmalade pairs beautifully with crispy plantain sticks, offering a delightful contrast of textures. It can also be served with croissants, toast, or even as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a sweet and savory breakfast option.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is achieving a smooth and creamy consistency when blending the avocados and cream cheese. Using a food processor or electric mixer can help ensure a uniform texture. Additionally, frying or baking the plantain sticks until they are crispy is crucial for adding a satisfying crunch to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If avocados are not available, ripe bananas can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will change.

- Neufchâtel cheese can replace cream cheese for a lower-fat option.

- Honey or maple syrup can be used in place of preserves for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

The avocado marmalade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the marmalade before covering. Plantain sticks are best served fresh but can be reheated in an oven to restore crispiness.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the marmalade in a decorative bowl, garnished with a sprig of mint or a thin slice of lime for a touch of color. Arrange the plantain sticks around the bowl for easy dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a sparkling white wine or a citrus-infused iced tea, complementing the sweet and tangy flavors of the marmalade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover marmalade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Plantain sticks can be stored at room temperature in a sealed container and reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Avocado (Butterless) Marmalade and Plantains is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those monitoring their calorie intake. On average, a serving may contain between 150-200 calories, depending on the exact proportions and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the preserves and the plantains. The total carbohydrate content will vary depending on the type of preserves used and the serving size of the plantains. On average, a serving of this dish may contain approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Avocados are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The cream cheese adds a small amount of saturated fat, but overall, the dish is rich in good fats. A serving of this marmalade can provide around 15-20 grams of fat, the majority of which are healthy fats.

Proteins

This recipe contains a modest amount of protein, primarily from the cream cheese. Each serving may offer about 2-4 grams of protein. For a higher protein content, consider serving the marmalade with a protein-rich side, such as Greek yogurt or a slice of whole-grain toast.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients contribute to the overall health benefits of the dish, supporting heart health, skin health, and more. The preserves may also add small amounts of vitamins, depending on the fruit used.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and nut-free, making it suitable for individuals with these common allergies. However, it does contain dairy (cream cheese), so it's not suitable for those with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance.

Summary

Overall, Avocado (Butterless) Marmalade and Plantains is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It's low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Summary

Avocado (Butterless) Marmalade and Plantains is a versatile and nutritious dish that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the sweetness of preserves, complemented by the crispiness of plantain sticks. It's a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or dessert. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a great addition to any meal, offering a healthy and delicious option for those looking to enjoy the rich flavors of avocados in a new and exciting way.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother. The pages were yellowed and creased, but the words were still clear and vivid. As I scanned through the recipes, one in particular caught my eye - Avocado Marmalade and Plantains.

I had never heard of such a combination before, but something about it intrigued me. The sweet and tangy flavor of the marmalade paired with the caramelized plantains seemed like the perfect marriage of flavors. I knew I had to try it.

I asked my great-grandmother about the recipe, but she just chuckled and said it was a secret family recipe that had been passed down for generations. Undeterred, I set out to recreate it on my own.

I gathered the ingredients - ripe avocados, sugar, lemon juice, and ripe plantains. As I peeled and diced the avocados, I couldn't help but marvel at their creamy texture and vibrant green color. They were unlike any fruit I had ever worked with before.

I followed the recipe carefully, simmering the avocados with sugar and lemon juice until they formed a thick, glossy marmalade. The scent that wafted through my kitchen was heavenly - a mix of sweet, citrusy, and slightly nutty.

As the marmalade cooled, I turned my attention to the plantains. I sliced them into rounds and sautéed them in a hot skillet until they were golden brown and caramelized on the outside. The sweet aroma of the caramelized plantains mingled with the marmalade, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.

Finally, it was time to plate the dish. I spooned a generous dollop of the avocado marmalade onto a plate and artfully arranged the caramelized plantains on top. The colors were striking - the bright green of the marmalade against the golden brown of the plantains.

I took a tentative bite, unsure of what to expect. The flavors exploded in my mouth - sweet, tangy, creamy, and caramelized all at once. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I was instantly hooked.

I shared the dish with my family, and they were equally impressed. My great-grandmother tried a bite and smiled knowingly, nodding her approval. She may have kept the recipe a secret, but I had managed to recreate it on my own.

From that day on, Avocado Marmalade and Plantains became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for special occasions and family gatherings, delighting in the surprised reactions of my guests.

Over the years, I continued to experiment with the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I added a sprinkle of cinnamon to the plantains, or a splash of rum to the marmalade. Each variation was a delicious discovery, a testament to the versatility of the original recipe.

As I grew older, I passed the recipe down to my own daughter, who now makes it for her own family. The tradition lives on, a culinary legacy that spans generations.

And so, every time I make Avocado Marmalade and Plantains, I am reminded of that sunny afternoon when I stumbled upon the recipe in my great-grandmother's cookbook. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to pass down traditions from one generation to the next. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Categories

| Cream Cheese Recipes | Hass Avocado Recipes | Marmalade Recipes |

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