| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 410 | 8.8g | 5.25g | 89g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 54g | 3.4g | 1.5g | 0.04g |
I’m really excited to share this recipe for Baked Plantains with Brown Sugar Glaze with you. Its unique palette of sweet and rich flavours showcases the wonderful versatility of plantains, coupled with the warm aroma of brown sugar and exotic spices; it’s a dish that truly brings together simple ingredients to create an innovative treat.
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Raising roots in Montana, the approach to cooking has always been about taking simple, wholesome ingredients and creating something delicious yet unexpected, much like this baked plantains recipe. The combination of the sweet plantains and brown sugar glaze is reminiscent of the comforting huckleberry pies from my childhood, but with an exotic twist. The blend of the spices and the plantains evokes a sense of comfort that reminds me of the hearty venison steaks from back home.
Health Advantage and Taste Devotion
Beyond their incredible taste, plantains are packed full of health benefits. They’re a rich source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and B6, and the minerals magnesium and potassium. The natural sweetness of the plantains, heightened by the brown sugar glaze, offers a heartier, healthier alternative to sugary desserts. Without balance, even the best of recipes can falter, and the complementary blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a whisper of salt in the recipe ensures just that.
While I’m drawn to this recipe because of its deliciousness and health benefits, the versatility of the dish is truly captivating. Whether serving it as a dessert, a side dish with a savory venison steak or bison burger, or enjoying it as a breakfast treat, the Baked Plantains with Brown Sugar Glaze always deliver. The slightly crisp caramelized exterior of the sweet plantains combined with the luscious, tender interior creates a delightful foil to any savory dish or it can stand proudly on its own as a dessert.
For those interested to embark on a culinary journey with plantains beyond this recipe, I would highly recommend recipes like Tostones Fried Plantains or Mangu Mashed Plantains. Both recipes celebrate the functionality of plantains in their own unique expressions.
What You’ll Need
- 6 ripe plantains
- 2 cups of brown sugar
- 1/2 stick of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1/2 cup of water
Method
Step One:
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, peel the plantains and cut them in half lengthwise.
Step Two:
On a baking sheet, arrange the plantains with the cut side up. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. This will create your brown sugar glaze.
Step Three:
Drizzle the brown sugar glaze over the plantains, ensuring each one is coated evenly. Sprinkle the lemon juice over the plantains to add a tangy touch.
Step Four:
Add water to the bottom of the baking sheet. This will help to keep the plantains from drying out as they bake.
Step Five:
Place the plantains in the preheated oven. Bake them for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent them from overcooking.
Step Six:
Remove the plantains from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this sweet and delicious treat as a dessert or a side dish!
