Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos) are a delightful dish that brings a burst of Caribbean flavor to your table. These savory boats made from plantains are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. The combination of seasoned ground beef and sweet plantains creates a unique and satisfying meal that will impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The seasoned ground beef mixed with vibrant vegetables provides a rich and savory taste.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep work and can be made in about 40 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Stuffed Plantains can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger feast, making them suitable for any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this dish uses wholesome ingredients that are both filling and nourishing.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the fun presentation and delicious flavors of these plantain boats.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Stuffed Plantains effectively, having the right tools on hand is essential. The following items will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking for the filling, ensuring all ingredients blend perfectly.
• Baking sheet: This is necessary for roasting the plantains evenly, providing that perfect texture.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to cut through the tough skin of plantains without damaging the flesh.

Ingredients

For the Plantains

• 4 yellow plantains

For the Filling

• 2 tbsp avocado oil (separated)
• ½ medium onion (finely diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (finely minced or grated)
• ½ green bell pepper (diced)
• ½ red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 tsp kosher salt (more for taste)
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp adobo seasoning
• ¼ cup tomato sauce
• ¼ cup Bare Bones Beef Bone Broth
• ¼ – ½ tsp cayenne pepper

How to Make Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Plantains

1. Cut off the ends of each plantain.
2. Carefully score the skin lengthwise, ensuring not to cut through to the flesh.
3. Coat each plantain with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

1. While the plantains are roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add in the diced onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
3. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until onions become translucent and bell peppers soften.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef to the skillet.
2. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned.

Step 5: Add Seasonings

1. Stir in adobo seasoning, tomato sauce, Bare Bones Beef Bone Broth, additional kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low; let simmer for 8–10 minutes until most liquid evaporates.

Step 6: Stuffing Time!

1. Remove roasted plantains from oven.
2. Cut a slit lengthwise into each one without cutting all the way through; optional: sprinkle with salt inside each plantain.
3. Fill each plantain boat generously with the beef mixture.

Serve these delightful Stuffed Plantains hot for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

Stuffed plantains, or canoas de platanos, are a delightful dish that can be served in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a casual meal, these plantain boats are versatile and can complement various sides and toppings.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices for extra richness and flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt offers a cooling contrast to the spices.

Side Salads

• Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A light salad with ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice textural contrast to the soft plantains.

Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Salsa: Serve with spicy salsa for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat.
• Garlic Aioli: A garlic aioli pairs nicely, adding creaminess and depth of flavor.

How to Perfect Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

To achieve the best stuffed plantains, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance your cooking process and ensure delicious results every time.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your ground beef well; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Ripe plantains: Choose yellow plantains that are slightly soft for the best texture and sweetness when roasted.
• Proper roasting: Roast the plantains until they are golden brown to deepen their natural flavors.
• Stuff generously: Fill each plantain boat generously with the beef mixture for satisfying bites.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

Pairing side dishes with stuffed plantains can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad adds a hearty component that complements the plantains well.
2. Mango Salsa: The sweet and tangy flavors of mango salsa provide a lovely contrast to the savory stuffing.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the Caribbean feel and adds sweetness to your plate.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful crunch alongside the soft plantains.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lime dressing makes a nutritious addition to balance your meal.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and nutrients, making your plate visually appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos), it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to be aware of:

• Skipping the Roast: Not roasting the plantains properly can lead to undercooked or hard plantains. Make sure to roast them until tender for the best texture.
• Overstuffing the Plantains: It might be tempting to fill them to the brim, but overstuffing can cause them to split. Aim for a generous yet manageable amount of filling.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season the beef mixture well can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip the adobo seasoning and adjust salt as needed.
• Cutting Too Deep: When scoring the plantains, cutting too deep can make them difficult to stuff and eat. Score just enough to peel without going through the flesh.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Cooking times matter! Be patient and ensure each step is done correctly for optimal flavor and texture.
• Forgetting Optional Ingredients: Adding a pinch of salt inside the plantains enhances their flavor. Don’t overlook this simple step for extra taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

• Wrap each stuffed plantain tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos):

Can I use different meats for Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer those options instead of beef.

How do I ripen plantains quickly?

Place unripe plantains in a paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas and speeds up ripening.

Can I make Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos) vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with a mixture of vegetables or beans for a delicious vegetarian version.

What sides go well with Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)?

Consider serving with avocado salad, rice, or black beans for a complete meal that complements the flavors.

How do I prevent my plantains from becoming mushy?

Be sure not to overcook them while roasting; check for tenderness but remove them before they become too soft.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos) offer an exciting blend of flavors and textures that is sure to please everyone at your table. This versatile dish allows for customization based on personal preferences—try different meats or add spices! With its delicious filling and sweet roasted exterior, it’s bound to become a favorite meal option. Give it a try today!

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Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos) are a vibrant dish that brings the essence of Caribbean cuisine to your table. These unique plantain boats, filled with seasoned ground beef and colorful vegetables, offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for any gathering or family dinner, they are not only delicious but also easy to prepare in just about 40 minutes. With their fun presentation and hearty filling, these stuffed plantains are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

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• 4 yellow plantains
• 2 tbsp avocado oil (divided)
• ½ medium onion (finely diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ green bell pepper (diced)
• ½ red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp adobo seasoning
• ¼ cup tomato sauce
• ¼ cup beef bone broth
• Optional: cayenne pepper for heat

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the ends off the plantains and score their skin lengthwise. Coat with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and roast for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. In a skillet, heat the remaining avocado oil over medium heat, adding onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet and brown it thoroughly. Stir in adobo seasoning, tomato sauce, beef bone broth, and cayenne; simmer until liquid reduces.
5. Remove roasted plantains from the oven, cut them lengthwise without slicing through, fill with the beef mixture, and serve hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Caribbean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed plantain half (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 70mg