Caymanian-style Grilled Steak with Plantain Mash

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have replaced the traditional Mexican flavors of Carne a la tampiqueña with a Caribbean twist. The original dish features a grilled steak served with refried beans, rice, and a cheese enchilada. In the Caymanian-style version, we have replaced the refried beans and rice with creamy plantain mash, which adds a unique tropical touch to the dish. Additionally, we have incorporated Caribbean spices and flavors into the marinade for the steak, enhancing its taste and giving it a distinct Caymanian flair. We alse have the original recipe for Carne a la tampiqueña, so you can check it out.

• 2 ribeye steaks (300g each) 2 ribeye steaks (300g each)
• 2 ripe plantains 2 ripe plantains
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground allspice, dried thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to make the marinade.
3. 3.
   Rub the marinade all over the steaks, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   While the steaks are marinating, peel the plantains and cut them into chunks.
5. 5.
   Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the plantain chunks. Cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
6. 6.
   Drain the plantains and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Mash them with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
7. 7.
   Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mashed plantains and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. 8.
   Remove the plantain mash from the heat and stir in the butter until melted and well combined.
9. 9.
   Grill the marinated steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired doneness.
10. 10.
    Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
11. 11.
    Serve the grilled steaks with a generous portion of plantain mash. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Choose ripe plantains with yellow skin and some black spots. They should be slightly soft to the touch for easier mashing.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• If you prefer a smoother plantain mash, use a blender or food processor instead of mashing by hand.
• Serve the grilled steak with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of citrus flavor.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the steaks on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler in your oven.
• Experiment with different cuts of steak, such as striploin or tenderloin, for variation in flavor and tenderness.

Serving advice

Serve the Caymanian-style Grilled Steak with Plantain Mash as the main course of a tropical-inspired dinner. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced grilled steak on a platter and spoon the plantain mash alongside it. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a vibrant tropical fruit salsa for an eye-catching presentation.