Nachos de Platano
Delicious Nachos de Platano Recipe from Cuba - Easy and Quick to Make
Introduction
Nachos de Platano is a delicious and unique twist on traditional nachos, using plantain chips as the base instead of tortilla chips. This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe plantains with savory chicken, vegetables, and melted cheese for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
History
Nachos de Platano originated in Latin America, where plantains are a staple ingredient in many dishes. This recipe puts a creative spin on classic nachos by using plantain chips instead of corn chips, adding a new dimension of flavor and texture to the dish.
Ingredients
- frying oil
- thinly sliced plantain
- sliced chicken breast
- chopped onions
- sliced or chopped green, red, and yellow bell peppers
- garlic
- your choice of spices (cumin, oregano, cayenne, etc)
- shredded monterey jack cheese
How to prepare
- In a pan, stir fry the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and spices until they become tender.
- In another pan, fry the plantain slices in oil until they turn golden and crisp.
- Take a pie or casserole dish and layer the bottom with the fried plantain "chips".
- Cover the plantain layer with the sliced chicken breast and the stir-fried vegetables and spices.
- Sprinkle some shredded jack cheese on top and broil until the cheese just melts.
Variations
- Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add black beans or corn to the toppings for extra protein and fiber.
- Substitute the chicken with ground beef or shredded pork for a different twist on the recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use ripe plantains for this recipe, as they will be sweeter and easier to fry to a crisp.
- Be careful not to overcook the plantain chips, as they can quickly burn if left in the oil for too long.
- Customize the spices and seasonings to your liking, adding extra heat with cayenne pepper or a smoky flavor with paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nachos de Platano as a fun and tasty appetizer for a party or gathering, or enjoy it as a satisfying meal on its own. Pair with a side salad or fresh salsa for added freshness.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to slice the plantains thinly for even frying and crispiness.
- Layer the ingredients in the dish to ensure that each bite has a balance of flavors and textures.
- Broil the nachos just until the cheese melts to avoid burning the dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find plantains, you can use regular tortilla chips or sweet potato chips as a substitute.
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Customize the vegetables to your liking, using bell peppers, tomatoes, or jalapenos for added flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the components of Nachos de Platano ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Fry the plantain chips and cook the chicken and vegetables in advance, then reheat and assemble the nachos when ready to eat.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the Nachos de Platano on a large platter or individual plates for a visually appealing presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Nachos de Platano with a refreshing beverage like a cold beer, margarita, or agua fresca for a perfect pairing. The combination of sweet plantains, savory chicken, and melted cheese pairs well with a variety of drinks.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Nachos de Platano in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the nachos in the oven or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook and make the chips soggy.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Nachos de Platano contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal or snack option.
Carbohydrates
Plantains are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. Each serving of Nachos de Platano contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
The shredded cheese used in this recipe adds a creamy and indulgent touch, contributing to the total fat content. Each serving of Nachos de Platano contains approximately 15 grams of fat.
Proteins
The sliced chicken breast in this recipe adds a boost of protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied. Each serving of Nachos de Platano contains approximately 20 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Plantains are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. The vegetables and chicken in this recipe also provide additional nutrients, making Nachos de Platano a well-rounded dish.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy from the shredded cheese, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Be sure to check for any other allergens in the ingredients used.
Summary
Nachos de Platano is a flavorful and satisfying dish that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy this unique twist on traditional nachos as a delicious snack or meal option.
Summary
Nachos de Platano is a delicious and creative twist on traditional nachos, using plantain chips as the base for a flavorful and satisfying dish. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is a well-rounded option for a snack or meal. Enjoy the unique combination of sweet plantains, savory chicken, vegetables, and melted cheese in this tasty and satisfying dish.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Nachos de Platano. It was a hot summer day, and I found myself wandering through the bustling streets of Mexico City. The smell of delicious street food filled the air, and my stomach grumbled in anticipation.
I had always been a lover of Mexican cuisine, but I had never tried Nachos de Platano before. As I walked past a small food stall, I caught a glimpse of a woman cooking up a batch of these delicious plantain nachos. The sweet smell of ripe plantains frying in hot oil wafted towards me, and I knew I had to try them.
I approached the woman and asked her about the recipe. She smiled warmly and began to tell me about how the dish was a traditional Mexican snack, made with ripe plantains, refried beans, cheese, and a variety of other toppings. She explained that the plantains were sliced thinly and fried until golden brown, then topped with a generous amount of refried beans and cheese.
I watched intently as she assembled the nachos, adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and a few slices of ripe avocado on top. With a flourish, she handed me a plate of the nachos and urged me to try them.
I took a bite and was immediately transported to flavor heaven. The combination of the sweet plantains, savory beans, and creamy cheese was a taste sensation like no other. I savored each bite, savoring the flavors and textures that danced on my tongue.
As I finished the plate of nachos, I knew that I had to learn how to make them myself. I thanked the woman profusely and asked her if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. She agreed, and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her tiny kitchen, cooking and chatting as she guided me through the process.
I learned that the key to making perfect Nachos de Platano was to use ripe, slightly soft plantains. They should be sliced thinly and fried in hot oil until crispy and golden brown. The refried beans should be seasoned with a blend of spices, including cumin, chili powder, and garlic, to give them a rich and smoky flavor.
The cheese should be melted just enough to be gooey and delicious, and the toppings should be fresh and vibrant, adding color and texture to the dish. I was amazed at how simple the recipe was, yet how incredibly delicious the end result turned out to be.
After that day, I made Nachos de Platano regularly for my family and friends. They quickly became a favorite dish, and I found myself making them for every special occasion. Whether it was a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, Nachos de Platano always made an appearance on the menu.
Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe slightly, adding my own personal touch here and there. Sometimes I swap out the refried beans for black beans, or add a sprinkle of queso fresco on top for an extra burst of flavor. But no matter how I change it up, the basic recipe remains the same, and the dish always brings smiles to the faces of those who try it.
Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the smells of frying plantains and simmering beans, I can't help but feel grateful for that fateful day in Mexico City. It was there that I discovered the recipe for Nachos de Platano, a dish that has brought joy and satisfaction to so many people over the years.
I may have learned the recipe from a kind stranger on the streets of Mexico, but it has since become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire. And as I serve up a steaming plate of Nachos de Platano to my loved ones, I know that I am passing on a delicious tradition that will continue to bring happiness for generations to come.
Categories
| Chicken Breast Recipes | Cuban Appetizers | Cuban Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Jack Cheese Recipes | Nachos Recipes | Onion Recipes | Plantain Recipes | Red Bell Pepper Recipes | Yellow Bell Pepper Recipes |