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Plantain Puffs

Plantain Puffs

Plantain Puffs are a quick and easy snack featuring ripe plantains mashed and mixed with simple ingredients, then fried or baked to crispy golden perfection. With a crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, these versatile puffs are perfect for any meal occasion, from breakfast to teatime or a light dinner. This recipe is kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and ideal for anyone craving a tasty, satisfying snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 ripe plantains (yellow with brown spots)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour like chickpea or rice flour)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable oil (for deep frying, about 2 inches deep)

Optional Spices

  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Variations

  • ½ cup shredded cheese (for cheesy version)
  • Chopped chili or cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Plantains: Peel the ripe plantains and slice them into chunks. Place in a bowl and mash thoroughly until smooth but still slightly chunky for texture.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose or gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, and any optional spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the mashed plantains, mixing thoroughly but gently until the batter is thick enough to hold shape but not overly stiff.
  4. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot until it is about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) to ensure optimal frying temperature.
  5. Fry the Puffs: Using a spoon or your hands, carefully drop small portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, turning the puffs as they cook to brown evenly on all sides.
  6. Drain and Serve: When golden brown and crispy, remove the plantain puffs with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use ripe plantains with yellow skins and brown spots for ideal sweetness and softness.
  • Fry in small batches to maintain consistent oil temperature and crispiness.
  • Test the oil temperature by dropping a small bit of batter; it should sizzle and rise immediately.
  • Drain thoroughly on paper towels or a wire rack to avoid soggy puffs.
  • Serve fresh as crispiness fades over time; reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Plantain, snack, crispy, fried, puffs, gluten-free, easy recipe, Caribbean, appetizer