Do you love tasty and good-for-you snacks? Plantains are perfect! They’re eaten many ways across the world and are especially good when grilled. Grilling brings out amazing flavors and makes the plantains crispy and delicious. In this guide, we’ll show you step by step how to grill plantains and share some yummy recipes to try at home.
Table of Contents
Understanding Plantains
Let’s first get to know plantains. They look like big bananas, but they’re quite different. Plantains are usually cooked, unlike bananas which we often eat raw when they’re ripe and soft. You can fry, boil, or grill plantains while they’re still green or just starting to turn yellow.
How to Pick the Best Plantains for Grilling
To grill plantains, picking the right ones is key. Go for plantains that are a bit firm to the touch, with skins that are greenish or yellow. If the plantains are really ripe with lots of black spots, they might not hold up well on the grill.
Get Your Plantains Ready for the Grill
After picking your plantains, it’s time to prep them for grilling. Peel them and slice them up. Cut them into coins or lengthwise strips, whichever you like!
Add Some Flavor to Your Plantains
You can spice up your plantains before grilling. Try seasoning them with tasty spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cumin. You could also brush on some olive oil or melted butter to stop them from sticking and to make them even yummier.
Time to Grill the Plantains
Now for the fun part – grilling! Get your grill hot on medium-high and put a little oil on the grates so the plantains don’t stick. Grill the slices for about 2-3 minutes each side. You’ll know they’re done when they have a nice char and are soft enough to eat.
Enjoying Your Grilled Plantains
Grilled plantains are versatile! They can be a tasty accompaniment to meat or veggies, a standalone snack, or even turned into a dessert.
Fun Recipes with Grilled Plantains
Ready to get creative? Here are some recipes that feature grilled plantains:
Grilled Plantains with a Sweet Honey Lime Drizzle
Ingredients:
- 2 yellow plantains
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper for taste
How to Make:
- Turn the grill on to medium-high.
- Peel the plantains, slice them up.
- Mix honey, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat the plantain slices with this sweet mixture.
- Grill each side for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve while they’re warm and enjoy!
Cinnamon Sugar Grilled Plantains
Ingredients:
- 2 yellow plantains
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
How to Make:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high.
- Peel and cut the plantains into slices.
- Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Brush melted butter on plantain slices and dust with cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve them up hot and savor every bite!
Wrapping It Up
Grilling plantains is super easy and results in a scrumptious treat. Remember to choose the best plantains, season them well, and grill until they’re perfectly charred and tender. With all the recipes and tips we’ve shared, you’re all set to make a variety of tasty grilled plantains dishes.
