Fried Plantains

Ingredients: (makes 12 pieces)

3 semi-ripe plantains

Spices: 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, a sprinkle of cumin, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chilli powder (add more seasoning as desired).

Oil for frying

Fresh Coriander to decorate

How to:

1. In a large pan, boil a sufficient amount of water to cover 3 plantains (for approximately 10 mins or until the water starts to bubble).

2  Cut the plantains into halves or thirds (depending on their size) and lower carefully into the boiling water. Boil with the peel on for about 15 minutes. (Poke with a fork to see if the plantains are soft enough to mash).

3. Once they’re soft enough, remove with a fork onto a plate and wait until they are cool enough to peel. Peel skin off and place in a bowl. Mash the plantains up really well.

4. Add seasoning as above.

5. Heat up about 3 tablespoons of oil and roll the mixture into a ball with your hand and then flatten into shape. Place a spoonful of the mixture into the oil.  (Alternatively, you can use a cereal spoon to flatten them into shape. Don’t worry about the shape too much, but try and get the size consistent).  Fry until golden brown and then place on a paper towel to drain off any excess oil. A word of warning though – they brown pretty quickly so don’t walk away from them. Keep turning over for even browning.

6. When serving, decorate on a bed of lettuce and sprinkle with a little cayenne pepper or chilli powder. Add a little fresh coriander in the center of the plate.

Recommendations: Best served hot. Enjoy with hot sauce/chilli sauce or just on its own.

Recipe submitted by Mrs. Saqui Huq

Image by Sabina Huq