If you’ve got some overripe plantains and you’re not sure what to do with them, you’re in luck! Overripe plantains are actually great for cooking up some yummy dishes. In this guide, we’re excited to share with you 8 easy recipes that you can make with overripe plantains right in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents
- 1. Simple Overripe Plantain Pancakes
- 2. Classic Fried Plantains
- 3. Homemade Plantain Chips
- 4. Easy Plantain Fritters
- 5. Wholesome Plantain Muffins
- 6. Traditional Plantain Porridge
- 7. Savory Plantain Omelet
- 8. Soft Plantain Fufu
- A Final Note
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use green plantains instead of overripe plantains?
- Are these recipes vegan-friendly?
- How do I know when a plantain is overripe?
- Can I freeze overripe plantains?
- Are there any health benefits to eating plantains?
1. Simple Overripe Plantain Pancakes
Pancakes aren’t just for bananas or plain batter – you can also make them with overripe plantains! Blend your plantains to a smooth paste and mix them with flour, eggs, and a little milk to get your batter. Cook them up on a hot non-stick pan for a few minutes, and you’ll have a delicious start to your day.
Start by mashing 2 overripe plantains until smooth. Mix in 1/2 cup of flour, crack in 1 egg, add 1/4 cup of milk, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Combine everything until it’s a nice batter. Next, heat up a non-stick skillet with a bit of oil over medium heat.
Pour your batter, about a quarter cup at a time, into the skillet. Watch for bubbles and when they appear, flip your pancake over to cook until it’s a beautiful golden brown. Serve these fluffy delights with your go-to toppings like a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream.
2. Classic Fried Plantains
Fried plantains are an absolute staple that pair beautifully with a wide range of meals. Slice your plantains, fry them in some hot oil until they turn a lovely golden brown, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired, and dip them into your favorite sauce for a treat.
3. Homemade Plantain Chips
Crunchy plantain chips are a fantastic snack, and making them with overripe plantains is super easy. Cut your plantains thinly, fry them to get that perfect crunch, and flavor them with salt and other spices if you like. They’re a healthy and crunchy option for snacking.
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab 2 overripe plantains and peel them, then slice them thin. Coat the slices lightly with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and any other spices you enjoy, such as paprika or garlic powder.
Lay out the slices on a baking sheet without overlapping, and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Enjoy your homemade plantain chips as a snack or a unique side dish.
4. Easy Plantain Fritters
These tasty plantain fritters are well-loved snacks in various African regions. Take your overripe plantains and mash them up, then blend in flour, a bit of sugar, some eggs, and a splash of milk. Fry spoon-sized portions in hot oil until they’re golden brown, and you’ve got yourself a delicious snack.
5. Wholesome Plantain Muffins
Turn your overripe plantains into healthy and satisfying muffins! Blend the fruit well, then mix with flour, eggs, a little sugar, and baking powder. Bake everything for around 20 minutes, and you’ll have a batch of warm, delightful plantain muffins everyone can enjoy.
6. Traditional Plantain Porridge
Plantain porridge is a hearty dish enjoyed in many African homes. Start by boiling the plantains until soft, then stir in creamy coconut milk, a little sugar, and seasonings to your taste. Simmer everything together until it thickens up into a warm, comforting porridge.
7. Savory Plantain Omelet
For an exciting twist on breakfast, make a plantain omelet! Fry sliced plantains until they’re golden, mix some eggs with milk, and pour over the plantains. Let the eggs set, then enjoy your omelet with a piece of toast. It’s a hearty and delicious way to start your day.
8. Soft Plantain Fufu
Cook up some soft and comforting plantain fufu. Boil 3 peeled and chopped overripe plantains until they’re tender. Mash them until they become a smooth paste. Fufu is a versatile dish and is lovely when served alongside your favorite soup or stew.
A Final Note
There are so many delicious ways to use up overripe plantains rather than tossing them out. From sweet pancakes to savory omelets, these recipes let you enjoy this fruit in a whole new way. So next time you find yourself with some overripe plantains, give one of these dishes a try and treat yourself to a tasty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use green plantains instead of overripe plantains?
You might want to use green plantains but they’re not as sweet as the overripe ones. They could change how your recipes taste. If you don’t mind that they’re less sweet, you can certainly use them.
Are these recipes vegan-friendly?
To make these recipes suitable for vegans, you can switch out any eggs or milk for plant-based alternatives.
How do I know when a plantain is overripe?
You can tell a plantain is overripe when its skin turns black and it feels soft. It might even smell a little like it’s starting to ferment.
Can I freeze overripe plantains?
Certainly! To freeze overripe plantains, first take off the skin, cut them into slices, and then put them in a container that’s safe for the freezer. They’ll be good like this for about half a year.
Are there any health benefits to eating plantains?
Plantains are really good for you! They have lots of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. They’re good for your stomach and might help to reduce swelling in your body.
