Helping Kids and Families Cook & Eat Healthier.

4 Amazingly Healthy & Delicious Ways to Eat Plantains

  Posted on   by   No comments

Have you ever noticed a banana that looks a little different? A little bigger, a little browner? You probably saw a plantain. Plantains are cousins of the banana and not only looks a little different, but it has different nutrients and can be prepared in many different ways. If plantains are new to you, take some time to learn a little more about this healthy food and get ready to give them a try!

The Scoop on Plantains

While plantains may not be commonplace in the United States, they are a staple in many Caribbean islands and African countries. They have a starchier consistency than bananas and require cooking for optimal flavor and texture. Their mild flavor and hint of sweetness makes them a great addition to almost any meal or snack!

Plantain Perks

Anytime you eat a plantain you are getting plenty of nutrients! Plantains offer vitamins A, C, and several B vitamins. You are also getting a serving of fiber and a dose of magnesium. And while bananas are credited with being a top source of potassium, one plantain actually has more potassium than one banana! In addition to their impressive nutritional content, plantains are also known to be a very gentle starch option that has soothing properties to the GI tract.

Putting Plantains on Your Plate

If you are looking for one single food you can use in a variety of ways, you may have found your perfect food with plantains! Check out all the tasty ways you can whip up a plantain!

Baked. Need a healthier alternative to greasy French fries? This is the easiest, no hassle way of cooking a plantain. Try peeling a plantain, slicing into wedges, coat in a healthy cooking oil like coconut or avocado oil!.

Dried. It doesn’t get much easier making your own plantain chips! Just slice a peeled plantain into thin rounds and bake in a dehydrator or low temperatures oven until crisp.

Smashed. Plantains make a great side dish. With a mildly sweet flavor, plantains are terrific when steamed and mashed. You’ll be able to enjoy this treat with no butter added (but a little coconut oil would taste yummy)

Sauteed. This is probably one of my favorite ways to eat a plantain. Unlike fried plantains that drip in unhealthy oils, you can still get the same fried texture with much less oil. Even better, you can control what oil you’re using to make this a super healthy superfood snack. Check out my Spicy Coconut Plantain recipe to try a new way of making plantains.

Categories: Food FactsTags:

Author: Coach Kim

Comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *