Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos) are a delightful dish that brings the taste of Puerto Rico right to your table. These savory plantain boats filled with a flavorful ground beef mixture are perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this recipe unique, while its versatility allows it to cater to various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices and ground beef creates a rich and satisfying filling that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the plantains.
• Versatile Dish: Stuffed plantains can be served as a main dish or as a side, allowing you to adapt it to any meal.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made primarily with plantains and meat, this dish is suitable for those following gluten-free diets.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Stuffed Plantains successfully, having the right tools is essential. Below are the must-have items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of the plantains, promoting that perfect texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and browning the meat, enhancing flavors through caramelization.

Ingredients

For the Plantains

• 4 yellow plantains
• 2 tbsp avocado oil (separated)

For the Filling

• ½ medium onion (finely diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (finely minced or grated)
• ½ green bell pepper (diced)
• ½ red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 tsp kosher salt (more for taste)
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp adobo seasoning
• ¼ cup tomato sauce
• ¼ cup Bare Bones Beef Bone Broth
• ¼ – ½ tsp cayenne pepper

How to Make Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Plantains

1. Cut the ends off each plantain.
2. Carefully score the skin without cutting through the flesh, then peel them.

Step 3: Roast the Plantains

1. Coat the plantains with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil.
2. Place them on the baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

While the plantains are roasting:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add finely diced onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper.
3. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
4. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until onions are translucent and peppers soften.

Step 5: Cook Ground Beef

1. Increase heat to medium-high.
2. Add ground beef to the skillet; break it up as it browns.
3. Once browned, stir in adobo seasoning, tomato sauce, Bare Bones Beef Bone Broth, remaining kosher salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4. Bring mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low; simmer for about 8–10 minutes until most liquid evaporates.

Step 6: Stuff the Plantains

1. Remove roasted plantains from oven.
2. Cut a slit lengthwise in each plantain without cutting all the way through.
3. Optionally sprinkle a pinch of salt inside each slit.
4. Generously fill each plantain with the ground beef mixture before serving hot.

Enjoy your deliciously unique Stuffed Plantains!

How to Serve Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

Stuffed plantains, or canoas de platanos, are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance their flavors. Here are some delightful suggestions to enjoy your dish.

With Fresh Salsa

• Tomato Salsa: A zesty tomato salsa adds freshness and acidity, balancing the richness of the beef.
• Pineapple Salsa: This sweet and tangy option brings a tropical flair that complements the savory filling beautifully.

Topped with Avocado Crema

• Creamy Avocado Sauce: Drizzling a creamy avocado sauce over the stuffed plantains adds richness and creaminess to each bite.
• Guacamole: A classic guacamole provides a smooth texture with a hint of lime, enhancing the overall experience.

Served with Rice

• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs well with the savory stuffed plantains for a complete meal.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: This herby side adds a fresh touch that brightens up the dish.

Accompanied by Beans

• Black Beans: A side of seasoned black beans contributes protein and fiber while adding depth to your meal.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are not only delicious but also create a comforting side that goes well with canoas de platanos.

How to Perfect Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

To achieve the best stuffed plantains, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use ripe plantains: Choose yellow plantains for optimal sweetness and flavor. They should be slightly soft to the touch.
• Monitor roasting time: Ensure you roast the plantains until they’re golden brown, as this enhances their sweetness and flavor.
• Customize fillings: Feel free to experiment with different proteins, such as chicken or turkey, for varied flavors.
• Add cheese for richness: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle cheese inside before serving; it melts beautifully within the warm plantain boat.
• Garnish creatively: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as garnish for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve warm: Enjoy your stuffed plantains immediately after preparation for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

Pairing your stuffed plantains with complementary sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Maduros (Sweet Fried Plantains): Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful contrast in flavor that balances savory dishes perfectly.
2. Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad adds crunch and sweetness, making it an ideal companion for stuffed plantains.
3. Yuca Fries: Crispy yuca fries provide a satisfying crunch and pair wonderfully with any dipping sauce you choose.
4. Tostones (Fried Green Plantains): Double-fried green plantain slices serve as a crispy side that contrasts nicely with soft fillings.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds creaminess and brightness, complementing the rich flavors of the beef stuffing.
6. Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed greens like spinach or kale add nutrition and balance out the meal’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos), it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind.

• Overcooking the Plantains: This can make them mushy and difficult to stuff. Aim for a golden-yellow hue, roasting them just until tender.
• Not Seasoning Enough: A bland filling can ruin your dish. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Cutting Too Deeply: When you score the plantains, avoid cutting through the flesh. This ensures they hold their shape while being stuffed.
• Skipping the Optional Salt: Adding a pinch of salt inside the plantains enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step for maximum taste.
• Using Cold Ingredients: If your ground beef or other fillings are cold, they won’t cook evenly. Allow ingredients to come to room temperature before cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos) in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

• Individually wrap each stuffed plantain in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking every minute for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)?

Stuffed Plantains, known as Canoas de Platanos, are ripe yellow plantains filled with a savory mixture, often featuring ground beef and vegetables.

Can I use green plantains instead?

While yellow plantains are traditional, green plantains can also be used. However, they will need longer cooking time and may have a different texture.

How do I make the filling vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos), substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans mixed with vegetables and spices.

What other fillings can I use?

You can experiment with different proteins like chicken or turkey, or even cheese for a cheesy stuffed plantain variation.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos) are not only delicious but also versatile! Customize your filling based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving them at dinner or as an appetizer, these plantain boats are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try today!

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Stuffed Plantains (Canoas de Platanos)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Stuffed Plantains, or Canoas de Platanos, are a delightful Puerto Rican dish that combines the sweetness of ripe plantains with a savory ground beef filling, creating a unique and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these plantain boats are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences. Whether served as a main dish or side, the rich flavors and comforting texture make them irresistible. Plus, they can be tailored to suit vegetarian diets by swapping in lentils or beans for the meat.

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Ingredients

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• 4 yellow plantains
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ medium onion
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ green bell pepper
• ½ red bell pepper
• Avocado oil
• Tomato sauce
• Adobo seasoning

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the ends off each plantain, score the skin, and peel.
3. Coat plantains with avocado oil and roast on the baking sheet for 30 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Sauté onions, garlic, and peppers in a skillet until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
5. Stir in adobo seasoning, tomato sauce, and simmer until thickened.
6. Make a slit in each roasted plantain and fill generously with the beef mixture before serving warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Puerto Rican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed plantain (200g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 60mg