Dish

Plátanos asados

Grilled Plantains

Plátanos asados is a simple yet delicious dish that is popular throughout Latin America, and is often served as a side dish or dessert. The dish is made by slicing ripe plantains lengthwise, brushing them with oil or butter, and then roasting them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized. Plátanos asados are sweet and flavorful, with a soft and creamy texture that is perfect for pairing with savory dishes or serving as a dessert.

Cuisine of the Americas› North American cuisine› Mexican cuisine

Appetizer

Origins and history

Plátanos asados is a traditional Latin American dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Caribbean, where plantains are a staple food. Today, plátanos asados is a popular dish throughout Latin America, and is often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

Dietary considerations

Plátanos asados are a high-carbohydrate, high-calorie dish that is not suitable for people on low-carb or low-calorie diets. However, they are a good source of fiber and other essential nutrients, thanks to the plantains. To make the dish healthier, some chefs recommend using a non-stick pan or baking the plantains instead of frying them.

Variations

There are many variations of plátanos asados, depending on the region and the chef. Some recipes call for the plantains to be sliced into rounds instead of lengthwise, while others use different types of oil or add other ingredients like cinnamon or brown sugar. Some chefs also serve plátanos asados with a side of ice cream or whipped cream, which adds a creamy contrast to the sweet and caramelized flavors of the plantains.

Presentation and garnishing

To make the perfect plátanos asados, it is important to use ripe plantains that are soft and sweet. The plantains should be sliced evenly and brushed with oil or butter to prevent them from sticking to the pan. To prevent the plantains from becoming too dry, some chefs recommend basting them with a mixture of oil and honey or syrup while they are roasting in the oven. To make the dish more flavorful, some chefs also recommend adding a sprinkle of sea salt or other spices to the plantains before roasting them.

Side-dishes

Plátanos asados pairs well with a variety of drinks, including coffee, tea, and fruit juice. The sweetness of the plantains is balanced out by the bitterness of the coffee or the acidity of the juice. Some chefs also recommend serving the dish with a side of cheese or nuts, which adds a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of the plantains.

Drink pairings

Plátanos asados is typically served on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The dish can be cut into slices or served whole, depending on the chef's preferences. To make the dish more visually appealing, some chefs also add a side of fresh fruit or a colorful salad.