The allure of caramelized plantain with cinnamon is one that tugs at the heartstrings, evoking a tapestry of sensory memories. There’s a certain magic in the transformation of simple plantains as they sizzle in the pan, their sugars melding with butter to form a golden crust, dusted with the warm spice of cinnamon. This dish is a dance of simplicity and indulgence, a humble nod to the comfort found in the sweet side of nature’s bounty.
On evenings when the air is tinged with a cool breeze and the world seems to quieten, the kitchen becomes my haven. It is here that I turn to the unassuming plantain, ripe and ready to be coaxed into caramelized perfection. The reasons for making this dish are manifold—a craving for something sweet yet not overly so, a desire to pay homage to the culinary traditions that celebrate the plantain, or simply the need to create a dessert that is both quick and deeply satisfying.
As the plantains cook, their edges crisping up, the aroma of cinnamon weaves through the air, a prelude to the comforting warmth that this dish promises. It’s a recipe that requires little but gives much, offering a moment of pause to appreciate the simple pleasures. Whether served as a dessert, a snack, or even a sweet accompaniment to a meal, caramelized plantains with cinnamon are a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated flavors coming together to create something truly special.
Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon Recipe
Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon is a simple yet delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe plantains with the aromatic warmth of cinnamon. This dish is characterized by its ease of preparation and the transformation of the plantains into a soft, caramel-like texture as they are sautéed in butter and brown sugar. The addition of cinnamon not only infuses the plantains with a comforting spice but also adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile.
The process involves slicing the plantains and cooking them in a pan until they develop a rich, golden-brown caramelization. The cinnamon is sprinkled on during the cooking process, allowing its flavor to meld with the sweet plantains. Often enjoyed as a dessert or snack, this dish can also serve as an accompaniment to savory meals, providing a sweet contrast to the flavors of the main course.
Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon is a versatile recipe that resonates with those who appreciate the simplicity of ingredients and the joy of creating a dish that offers both warmth and sweetness. It’s a celebration of straightforward cooking techniques resulting in a treat that comforts the palate and elevates the humble plantain to a delectable indulgence.
Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon
Equipment
- 1 pan
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas view photos.
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tbsp. coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt pinch of salt
Instructions
- PEEL and cut plantain diagonally about ½ inches thick.
- HEAT over medium oil in a skillet the coconut oil.
- DISTRIBUTED plantain slices in the pan.
- COOK 4-5 minutes per side, until they become caramelized brown color.
- SPRINKLE the cinnamon sugar and salt on the slices of banana and wait until is absorbed, about 1-2 minutes, just make sure it doesn’t burn.
- REMOVE from heat and serve hot.
Video
How to make Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon using grilled
Grilling plantains for a caramelized treat is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The smoky notes from the grill add a new dimension to the sweet plantains, creating a dance of flavors on the palate. I find joy in brushing each slice with melted butter, then sprinkling them with cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar before they hit the hot grates.
The sizzle as they meet the grill is music to my ears, a prelude to the caramelization that will soon coat their surface. Turning them gently, I watch as the natural sugars caramelize into a beautiful, amber hue. The cinnamon’s warm aroma mingles with the smoke, an olfactory delight that promises a comforting end to any meal.
Serve these grilled plantains warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey, and savor the simple pleasure of a dessert that’s both rustic and refined.
Tips for making Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon
Cooking Tips
Creating Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon is a joyful ode to simplicity. Choose ripe plantains for their natural sugars, which will caramelize beautifully. Slice them lengthwise for an elegant presentation that allows each piece to soak up the flavors. As they sizzle in the pan, sprinkle cinnamon generously, letting its warm aroma envelop the kitchen.
Cook patiently over medium heat, allowing the edges to turn a deep golden brown, a sign of the perfect caramelization. The result is a comforting dish, where the sweetness of the plantains and the spice of the cinnamon come together in a delightful symphony. Serve as a dessert or a sweet side, and watch it bring smiles to the table.
Serving suggestions
Presenting Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon is a celebration of warmth and sweetness. I take delight in arranging the golden-brown slices on a beautiful platter, their edges glistening with caramel. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon over the top can intensify the aroma, inviting everyone to indulge.
For a truly comforting experience, I love to pair them with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, allowing the cold to contrast with the warmth of the plantains. A drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream can also add layers of texture and flavor.
This dish is not just a treat for the palate but also for the soul, offering a simple yet profound joy that comes from savoring the perfect blend of spice and sweetness. It’s a humble offering that speaks to the heart, creating moments of connection over shared plates and stories.
Top 5 FAQs about Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon
- How do you select plantains for caramelizing?
When selecting plantains for caramelizing, it’s typically best to choose ones that are ripe to overripe. As plantains ripen, they become sweeter and their starches convert into sugars, which is ideal for caramelization. Ripe plantains have a yellow skin with black spots or patches; the more black on the skin, the sweeter and softer the fruit will be.
- What is the best way to caramelize plantains?
To caramelize plantains effectively, you should first peel them and then slice them either longitudinally or into rounds, depending on personal preference. You then heat a mixture of butter and sugar in a skillet over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. The plantains are added to the skillet and cooked until they turn golden brown and the natural and added sugars create a caramel coating. A sprinkle of cinnamon is added either during the cooking process or immediately after, to infuse the spice’s warm flavor.
- Can you make caramelized plantains without sugar?
Yes, it is possible to caramelize plantains without adding sugar because the fruit itself contains natural sugars that will caramelize when cooked. However, without additional sugar, the caramelization might be less pronounced. Some people might use alternatives like honey or maple syrup to add additional sweetness and aid in the caramelization process.
- Are caramelized plantains served hot or cold?
Caramelized plantains are generally served hot or warm, as this is when they have the best texture and flavor. The warmth enhances the softness of the fruit and the richness of the caramel sauce. However, leftovers can be eaten cold or reheated.
- What are some common variations or additions to caramelized plantains?
Common additions include a splash of rum for a bit of complexity and depth, a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness, or a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy contrast. Vanilla extract is another popular addition. In terms of serving, caramelized plantains can be accompanied by ice cream, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
As the last slices of Caramelized Plantain with Cinnamon are savored, there’s a lingering sweetness in the air, a gentle reminder of the simple pleasures that life offers. This dish, with its humble beginnings, transforms into a celebration of flavor and texture, where the caramel’s rich velvetiness meets the soft, warm embrace of the cinnamon-spiced plantains.
The joy of preparing this dessert lies in its simplicity and the satisfaction it brings. It’s a testament to the beauty of natural ingredients coming together in perfect harmony, creating a moment of comfort and indulgence. The act of caramelizing, with its slow build-up to that perfect golden hue, is a practice of patience and care, a dance between fruit and flame that culminates in a delightful crescendo of taste.