Plantain Pancakes

Plantain Pancakes Recipe from Honduras | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Honduras | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Plantain pancakes are a delicious and unique dish that combines the sweetness of ripe plantains with the savory flavor of beans. This recipe is a popular dish in many African and Caribbean countries, where plantains are a staple ingredient in many dishes.

History

Plantain pancakes have been a traditional dish in many African and Caribbean cultures for centuries. Plantains are a versatile fruit that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, making them a popular ingredient in many recipes.

Ingredients

3 very ripe plantains
3 tbsp flour
4 tbsp melted butter
0.67 cup cooked beans
0.67 cup shortening or lard

How to prepare

Boil and mash the plantains. Then, add flour and butter to the mashed plantains and mix thoroughly.
In a frying pan, fry the beans in 1 tbsp of shortening for about 5 minutes.
In another frying pan, heat the remaining shortening. Add the plantain mixture, 1 tbsp at a time, and spread it with a fork to form small pancakes.
Fry the pancakes for about 5 minutes. Then, place a teaspoon of the fried beans on each pancake and fold them.
Cover the stuffed pancakes and fry them for three minutes on each side or until they turn brown.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the plantain mixture for added flavor.
Try using black beans or kidney beans instead of cooked beans for a different twist on this recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use very ripe plantains for this recipe, as they will be sweeter and easier to mash.

- Be sure to fry the beans until they are slightly crispy before adding them to the pancakes for added texture and flavor.

- Use a non-stick frying pan to ensure that the pancakes do not stick while cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Plantain pancakes can be served with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to mash the plantains thoroughly to ensure a smooth pancake batter.

- Fry the pancakes on medium heat to ensure that they cook evenly and do not burn.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have lard, you can use vegetable oil or coconut oil as a substitute.

- You can also use cornmeal or almond flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the plantain mixture and beans ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry the pancakes.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the plantain pancakes on a platter with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Plantain pancakes pair well with a side of scrambled eggs or bacon for a complete breakfast or brunch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover plantain pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a frying pan or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of plantain pancakes contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Plantain pancakes are a good source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of carbs.

Fats

Plantain pancakes are also a source of fats, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of plantain pancakes contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Plantain pancakes are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the flour and may not be suitable for those with gluten allergies.

Summary

Plantain pancakes are a delicious and nutritious dish that is high in carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins. They are a great option for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Summary

Plantain pancakes are a delicious and unique dish that combines the sweetness of ripe plantains with the savory flavor of beans. This recipe is a great option for a hearty breakfast or brunch and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook that I found in a dusty corner of a second-hand store. The pages were yellowed and dog-eared, with handwritten notes scattered throughout. As I flipped through the pages, one particular recipe caught my eye - Plantain Pancakes.

I had never heard of such a thing before. Plantains were not a common ingredient in my household growing up, but the idea of incorporating them into a pancake recipe intrigued me. I had always been adventurous in the kitchen, willing to try new things and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. So, I decided to give it a try.

I followed the recipe carefully, mixing the mashed plantains with flour, eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt. The batter was thick and slightly lumpy, but I trusted the process. I poured the batter onto a hot griddle and watched as it sizzled and bubbled, slowly transforming into golden-brown pancakes.

The smell that filled my kitchen was heavenly - sweet and slightly caramelized, with a hint of tropical fruit. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. I flipped the pancakes onto a plate, drizzled them with maple syrup, and took my first bite.

The taste was unlike anything I had ever experienced. The plantains added a subtle sweetness and richness to the pancakes, making them incredibly moist and flavorful. I was immediately hooked. From that moment on, Plantain Pancakes became a staple in my repertoire of recipes.

Over the years, I have tweaked and perfected the recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations. Sometimes, I like to mix in a handful of chopped walnuts or sprinkle the pancakes with cinnamon and nutmeg. Other times, I top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all been blown away by its unique and delicious flavor. They have often asked me where I learned to make Plantain Pancakes, and I have always replied with a smile, "It was a happy accident, stumbled upon in an old cookbook."

But the truth is, the recipe for Plantain Pancakes holds a deeper significance for me. It represents more than just a delicious breakfast dish - it symbolizes the joy and satisfaction that comes from discovering something new and unexpected. It reminds me that there is always room for exploration and creativity in the kitchen, and in life.

As I grow older, I find myself returning to this recipe time and time again, not only for its irresistible taste but also for the memories and emotions it evokes. Each bite takes me back to that moment in the kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and comfort of cooking. It reminds me of the joy I felt when I first tasted those golden-brown pancakes, and the sense of accomplishment that came from creating something truly special.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a little culinary inspiration, I urge you to give Plantain Pancakes a try. Let the sweet and savory flavors transport you to a place of happiness and contentment, just as they have done for me. And who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon a new favorite recipe, just like I did all those years ago.