| Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 22g | 7g | 54g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 10g | 20g | 1.2g |
As the vibrant beauty of Miami sunsets illuminates my kitchen, it’s in these quiet moments I find the greatest joy in brewing love in the form of flavor. Among the many dishes that I cherish, one that stands out to me is the Grilled Plantain Rellenos. Cultivating a fine symphony between the rustic flavors of my Spanish heritage and the tropical tones of my Caribbean roots; this delightful dish is both nutritious and extraordinarily flavorful.
Celebration of Cultures
Inspired by traditional Rellenos, this dish replaces the typical pepper with ripe plantains, bringing in a sweet, tropical twist. The addition of the savory ground beef stirred with a blend of aromatic spices exclusive to Cuban and Spanish cuisines, like oregano, cumin, and chili powder, ensures every bite invites you to immerse yourself in this cultural celebration of flavors.
Enjoy the Bright Side of Healthy Living
Grilled Plantain Rellenos aren’t just about tantalizing your taste buds. This recipe is proof that healthy and delicious are two sides of the same coin. Plantains, the star ingredient, bring in a generous dose of vitamins A, C, and B6, and are a great source of fiber. Meanwhile, lean ground beef contributes to the protein content, making this dish not just nutritious, but energy-boosting. Moreover, they’re rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy compounds.
Just as I incorporate elements of rhythm, flexibility and strength in my dance lessons, I believe this dish encompasses a culinary choreography of sorts. The process of peeling and grilling plantains, sautéing the succulent beef, and finally stuffing these golden beauties, is indeed a dance in the kitchen!
Perfect Pairings
Pair these Grilled Plantain Rellenos with a side of simple black bean soup or a refreshing Mojito cocktail, and you’ve got yourself a Cuban-style feast right at home. Similarly, you could team this up with a ripe avocado salad and a glass of Catalan white wine for a delightful Spanish supper.
Just the thought of savoring these Grilled Plantain Rellenos surrounded by the company of dear friends, sharing stories from long summer nights to salsa lessons, brings a smile to my face. For me, it’s more than a recipe; it’s a tie that binds us to our roots, a reminder of the love, and the colors of our culture. And that, dear friends, is the heart and soul of enjoying good food.
What You’ll Need
- 6 ripe plantains
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or Monterey jack)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra cheese for topping (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. While waiting for the grill to heat up, peel the plantains and cut a slit down the length of each one, making sure not to cut all the way through. Set aside.
Step Two
Heat the cooking oil in a medium-sized frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan and sauté until the onions are translucent.
Step Three
Add the ground beef to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Season the beef with oregano, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is browned, stirring frequently to break up any large chunks.
Step Four
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the tomato sauce and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the grated cheese until it’s well incorporated.
Step Five
Carefully stuff each plantain with the beef and cheese mixture, being sure not to overfill them. Returns the stuffed plantains to the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the plantains are tender and warmed through.
Step Six
If desired, sprinkle extra cheese over the top of the plantains during the last few minutes of cooking so it can melt.
Step Seven
Remove the plantains from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your Grilled Plantain Rellenos!
