Latin American > Caribbean > Cuban

Platanos Maduros Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 ripe plantains
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt

Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Paper towels

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces.
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the plantain slices to the skillet in a single layer.
4. Cook the plantains for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and caramelized.
5. Using tongs, transfer the plantains to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
7. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the plantains while they are still warm.
8. Serve the platanos maduros immediately.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with canola oil or coconut oil.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with white sugar or honey.
- Ground cinnamon can be substituted with nutmeg or allspice.

Variations:
- For a savory twist, sprinkle the plantains with salt and chili powder instead of the brown sugar mixture.
- Add a splash of lime juice to the brown sugar mixture for a tangy flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the plantains are ripe but not too soft.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the plantains from sticking to the pan.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet, cook the plantains in batches if necessary.

Storage instructions:
- Platanos maduros can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the platanos maduros in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the platanos maduros on a platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or chopped nuts.

Pairings:
- Platanos maduros pair well with grilled meats, rice, and beans.

Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side of black beans and rice.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the plantains are not caramelizing, increase the heat slightly and cook for a few more minutes.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the plantains are fully cooked before serving.

Food history:
- Platanos maduros are a traditional Latin American and Caribbean dish.

Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, caramelized, and slightly spicy.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or side dish.

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Region: Latin American

Taste: Sweet, Savory, Caramelized, Rich, Buttery