I'm a typical Dominican when it comes to platanos and I'm not ashamed to admit it. If they weren't so starchy and fattening, I'd eat them with every single meal.
In a dream world I'd have mangu for breakfast, mofongo for lunch and maduros with all my dinners. This is why I nearly lost my mind on Saturday when I stepped into a Colombian bakery and laid my eyes on these delicious-looking cheese stuffed maduros. I'm telling you I was so hyped you'd think I'd never seen a maduro before in my life!
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I promised myself I was going to cut down on platanos and dairy, but who the heck can resist a delicious maduro stuffed with cheese? A crazy person that's who! You had to see how I was devoured this thing. I enjoyed every single bite. Then I realized that I could probably make this thing myself–no problem! I got on the internet did some research and realized it's the easiest thing ever. Check out the super duper easy-to-follow recipe below and try it out for yourself!
What you need:
Ripe Plantains (the sweet ones). How many depends on how many you plan on feeding
1-2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil
6 slices of mozzarella cheese
What to do:
1. The one I had at the restaurant was definitely fried and filled with queso frito, but if you want a slightly healthier version I suggest you use mozzarella and bake it instead. Plus, mozzarella cheese unlike queso frito actually melts
2. Now pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees F.
3. Peel the plantains and spread olive oil or butter all over a baking sheet
4. Place the plantains on the baking sheet and bake for just 30 minutes. Turn them over and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until they're golden on both sides.
5. Remove the plantains from the oven and then using a knife, cut a slit right down the middle of each platano and stuff them with the cheese slices.
6. Let the cheese sit for a few minutes until it melts and then enjoy!
How delicious was that? My mouth is still watering!
Image via Johanna Ferreira
