Plantain Empanadas

Plantain empanadas are a delightful twist on the traditional empanada, showcasing the natural sweetness and creamy texture of ripe plantains. These golden pockets of goodness are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and a sprinkle of love, you can create a dish that is perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a light meal. Let’s dive into this exciting recipe that celebrates the unique flavors of plantains and brings a taste of Latin America right to your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

There is something magical about plantains; their versatility and rich flavor make them a favorite in many cuisines. What I adore about this plantain empanadas recipe is how it marries the sweetness of ripe plantains with the savory elements of a traditional empanada. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors, and the texture is simply irresistible. Plus, these empanadas are easy to customize, allowing you to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy snack, plantain empanadas are sure to impress!

Your Shopping Guide

To make these delicious plantain empanadas, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients. Here’s a detailed shopping list:

• 1 cup cornflour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp coconut oil (plus an additional tablespoon for cooking)
• 2 very ripe yellow plantains, chopped
• 1 tbsp coconut sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

These ingredients are typically easy to find in your local grocery store or health food store. Make sure to choose ripe plantains, as they will provide the best sweetness and flavor for your empanadas.

Hardware & Gadgets

To make the process smooth and enjoyable, you’ll need a few kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowl: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Fork or potato masher: For mashing the plantains to a smooth consistency.
• Rolling pin: To roll out the dough evenly.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for rolling and cutting the dough.
• Frying pan: For cooking the empanadas to perfection.

These tools will help you create beautifully shaped empanadas that are sure to please.

Plantain Empanadas: How It’s Done

Creating plantain empanadas is a simple process that yields delightful results. Follow these steps to make your own at home:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cornflour, 1/2 cup of cornmeal, and 1/2 tsp of sea salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of warm water and 1 tbsp of coconut oil, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it’s smooth and pliable. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, mash the 2 very ripe yellow plantains with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Add in 1 tbsp of coconut oil, 1 tbsp of coconut sugar, and 1/2 tsp of cinnamon. Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, take a portion of the dough and roll it out into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles of dough, making sure to keep them uniform in size.

Step 4: Fill and Fold the Empanadas

Place a tablespoon of the plantain filling in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Step 5: Cook the Empanadas

In a frying pan, heat 1 tbsp of coconut oil over medium heat. Once hot, place the empanadas in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the pan and let them cool on a paper towel.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the plantain empanadas warm, perhaps with a side of salsa or avocado dip. They make a fantastic snack or appetizer that everyone will love!

In-Season Swaps

While this recipe is delicious as is, you can also try these seasonal swaps to customize your empanadas:

• Add finely chopped bell peppers for a bit of crunch.
• Incorporate black beans for added protein and texture.
• Try mixing in some cooked quinoa for a heartier filling.
• For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Feel free to get creative and make these empanadas your own!

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When making plantain empanadas, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of:

• Ensure your plantains are very ripe; the sweetness is key to the filling.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas, or they may burst while cooking.
• Keep the dough covered while working to prevent it from drying out.
• Make sure the oil is hot before adding the empanadas for a crispy texture.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can avoid any mishaps and enjoy perfect empanadas.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

If you’re planning to serve these plantain empanadas for a gathering, consider making them ahead of time:

You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance. Store the dough wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator, and keep the filling in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply roll out the dough, fill, and fry as directed. You can also freeze the uncooked empanadas. Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Popular Questions

Can I bake the empanadas instead of frying them?

Yes! To bake the empanadas, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them lightly with coconut oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

What can I serve with plantain empanadas?

Plantain empanadas pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Consider serving them with guacamole, salsa, or a yogurt-based dip for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the plantains.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses cornflour and cornmeal instead of wheat flour. It’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I use green plantains instead?

While this recipe works best with very ripe yellow plantains due to their sweetness, you can use green plantains for a more savory filling. However, you will need to adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor.

Once you’ve delighted in these plantain empanadas, you might also enjoy:

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! These plantain empanadas are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun cooking experience to share with friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the filling and make it your own. Enjoy every bite of these delightful empanadas, and savor the joy they bring to your table. Happy cooking!