Plantain cups are a delicious and creative way to serve various fillings, such as ceviche, guacamole, or shredded meats. They make for a unique and flavorful appetizer or snack. Here’s how to make plantain cups:
Ingredients:
- Ripe Plantains: Choose ripe plantains with yellow to yellow-black skins. They should be firm but not overly soft.
- Oil: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or any cooking oil with a high smoke point for frying.
- Salt: To season the plantains.
Equipment:
- Knife: For peeling and slicing the plantains.
- Cutting Board: To prepare the plantains.
- Muffin Tin: You’ll need a standard muffin tin to shape the plantain cups.
- Paper Towels: For blotting excess oil after frying.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Plantains:
- Start by peeling the ripe plantains. Cut off the ends and make a lengthwise slit along one side of each plantain to help with peeling.
- Cut the peeled plantains into slices about 1 inch thick.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the plantain slices.
- Fry the Plantains:
- Carefully place the plantain slices into the hot oil. Fry them until they become golden and slightly crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to turn the plantains and ensure they cook evenly.
- Once they’re golden and crispy, remove the plantain slices from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Shape the Plantain Cups:
- While the fried plantain slices are still warm and pliable, carefully press each slice into the cups of a muffin tin. Gently mold them to create a cup shape.
- Allow the plantain cups to cool and set for a few minutes in the muffin tin. This will help them maintain their shape.
- Season with Salt:
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the plantain cups for added flavor.
- Fill the Plantain Cups:
- Once the plantain cups have cooled and set, remove them from the muffin tin.
- Fill each cup with your desired filling, such as ceviche, guacamole, shredded meats, or any other savory mixture you prefer.
- Serve:
- Arrange the filled plantain cups on a serving platter, and they’re ready to serve as an appetizer or snack.
Plantain cups are a versatile and flavorful way to enjoy ripe plantains. You can get creative with the fillings to suit your taste, making them a great addition to parties and gatherings. Enjoy!