Plantains are a food staple that Latinos are well known for and pretty much everyone loves them because they are delicious! The only setback with plátanos are that they tend to be unhealthy because of the ways we prepare them. We deep fry them like it's nobody's business and we all know that's not good for us.
I love my tostones as much as the next person, but I know to eat them in moderation. The good news is that plantains are a super food and in actuality not all that bad for you!
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Plantains look similar to bananas, but are different. They are lower in sugar, bigger in size and come in green or yellow. What you probably didn't know is that plátanos are in fact vegetables. They are perfect for your daily intake of vitamin C, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, iron, magnesium and much more!
We're so used to sticking to the traditional way of making our plátanos, and despite being yummy, the nutrition value is lost in the process. There are some even more interesting ways to make them that you probably didn't think twice about. And guess what? You don't even have to worry about ruining your waistline!
Want to make plantains tonight, why not try these healthier recipes below? ¡Provecho!
Image via Greenandgorgeous.net
Grilled green plantains with garlic sauce
One great way to have a healthy plátano dish is by grilling them. Take a green plátano, peel it, and slice it into thin slices before tossing them on the grill. The recipe below is not only healthy, but it includes a delicious garlic sauce that is a perfect pairing.
You can find the full recipe and instructions here.
Oven-baked plantains with coconut dipping sauce
Instead of frying plantains, try baking them. Sure it doesn't taste the same, but it doesn't mean it's flavorless! In fact this recipe allows you to savor the sweetness even more with a coconut dipping sauce.
You can find the full recipe and instructions here.
Boiled plantains
Grab green plantains and try this healthy alternative to frying. Boil them in a pot with the skin on and add your favorite spices and a cup of milk for a sweet and healthy treat.
You can find the full recipe and instructions here.
Plantain soup
A classic Puerto Rican dish, the plantain soup is sure to satisfy your hearty craving. You will need green plantains, cilantro, chicken broth, garlic, and parmesean cheese among the ingredients for this delicious meal.
You can find the full recipe and instructions here.
Steamed plantains
If you love yellow plantains, then this is the perfect healthy recipe for you. It's so simple to make too! All you have to do is cut the ends off and cut a slit down the middle of the skin before steaming them.
Get the full recipe and instructions here.
