Blaff de Bananes Vertes: A Caribbean Dish Made with Green Plantains
Blaff de Bananes Vertes or Green Plantains Blaff is a typical dish served in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The dish is made with green plantains, onions, garlic, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish often served as a main course or a side dish.
Plantains are a major food staple in many tropical and subtropical regions, including West and Central Africa (such as Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo), Central America, the Caribbean Islands, and northern, coastal parts of South America (such as Colombia and Venezuela).
One of the reasons why plantains are so popular is that they fruit all year round, making them a reliable all-season staple food. This is important in regions where food availability can be unpredictable due to seasonal changes or other factors.
In addition to being a reliable food source, plantains are also a good source of carbohydrates, potassium, and fiber. They can be eaten cooked or raw, and they can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet.
Here are some examples of how plantains are used in different cultures:
- In West Africa, plantains are often boiled or fried and served as a side dish. They can also be used to make stews, soups, and desserts.
- In Central America, plantains are often mashed and used to make tortillas or tamales. They can also be fried to make chips or tostones.
- In the Caribbean, plantains are often baked or roasted and served with rice and beans. They can also be used to make savory pies or fritters.
No matter how they are prepared, plantains are a delicious and nutritious food that is enjoyed by people all over the world.
Green Plantains vs. Yellow Plantains – which one is better for Blaff de Bananes Vertes?
Green and yellow plantains are a versatile fruit that can be eaten in various ways. They are a staple food in many tropical and subtropical regions and are becoming increasingly popular in other parts of the world.
Green plantains are typically eaten when they are firm and unripe. They have a starchy texture and a slightly bitter taste. They can be boiled, fried, or roasted.
Yellow plantains are typically eaten when they are ripe. They have a sweet and creamy texture. They can be boiled, fried, or baked.
Both green and yellow plantains are good sources of carbohydrates, potassium, and fiber. They are also a good source of vitamins A and C.
In recent years, the price of green and yellow plantains has increased. This is likely due to a number of factors, including increased demand from consumers and increased costs associated with importing the fruit.
Despite the increase in price, many people are still choosing to incorporate plantains into their diet. This is because plantains are a delicious and nutritious food that can be used in various dishes.
How to make Blaff de Bananes Vertes or Green Plantains Blaff
Carefully peel the plantains and then dip them into a large pot of water that has been mixed with lime juice and a small amount of salt. Do not overcook the plantains, as they should still be firm when you remove them from the pot.
Before the plantains are fully cooked, remove them from the pot and discard half of the water. Add the minced herbs and spices to the pot and stir to combine.
Once the plantains are fully cooked, add 3 tablespoons of oil to the pot and stir to coat the plantains. Sprinkle with additional lime juice and serve hot.
Here are some notes for making Blaff de Bananes Vertes:
- Use green plantains. They should be firm but not hard.
- The amount of lime juice and salt you use will depend on your personal taste.
- You can use any type of herbs and spices you like. Some good options include thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- You can use lemon juice or vinegar if you don’t have lime juice.
- You can add other vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, or onions.
What to serve Blaff de Bananes Vertes with
- Simple Veal Roasted with Onion, Fennel, and Shiraz wine
- How to make Beef Tassot
- Delicious and Crispy Roasted Jerk Pork
I hope you enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make dish!
Blaff de bananes vertes is a delicious, easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight meal. It is also a great way to use up green plantains that you may have on hand. So next time you are looking for a hearty and flavorful dish, try blaff de bananes vertes.
Enjoy!
Green Banana Blaff
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 – 6 green plantains
- 3 limes
- 3 scallion chopped finely
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 small parsley bunch chopped finely
- 2 large thyme sprigs finely chopped
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- 4 – 5 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 whole hot pepper – scotch bonnet preferably
Instructions
- Carefully peel the plantains and then dip them into a large pot of water that has been mixed with lime juice and a small amount of salt. Do not overcook the plantains, as they should still be firm when you remove them from the pot.
- Before the plantains are fully cooked, remove them from the pot and discard half of the water. Add the minced herbs and spices to the pot and stir to combine.
- Once the plantains are fully cooked, add 3 tablespoons of oil to the pot and stir to coat the plantains. Sprinkle with additional lime juice and serve hot.
Notes
- Use green plantains. They should be firm but not hard.
- The amount of lime juice and salt you use will depend on your personal taste.
- You can use any type of herbs and spices you like. Some good options include thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- You can use lemon juice or vinegar if you don’t have lime juice.
- You can add other vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, or onions.
Nutrition
Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the products used.
Nutrition info is automatically generated and provided as a courtesy and as an estimate only.
Corn Allergy:
Always choose ingredients without corn or corn derivatives.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/plantain-nutrition-benefits
