North Korean Cartola

Ingredients

In this North Korean adaptation of Cartola, the traditional Brazilian dish, we have incorporated North Korean flavors and ingredients. Instead of using traditional Brazilian cheese, we use a local North Korean cheese that has a similar melting quality. Additionally, we substitute the bacon with a North Korean smoked meat, which adds a unique smoky flavor to the dish. These adaptations give the dish a distinct North Korean twist while still maintaining the essence of the original Cartola. We alse have the original recipe for Cartola, so you can check it out.

• 4 ripe bananas 4 ripe bananas
• 200g (7oz) North Korean cheese, shredded 200g (7oz) North Korean cheese, shredded
• 200g (7oz) North Korean smoked meat, thinly sliced 200g (7oz) North Korean smoked meat, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 15g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Peel the bananas and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the banana slices to the pan and fry until golden and caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. 4.
   Remove the bananas from the pan and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same pan, fry the sliced smoked meat until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the smoked meat from the pan and set aside.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
8. 8.
   Arrange the fried banana slices in a baking dish.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the bananas.
10. 10.
    Top with the crispy smoked meat.
11. 11.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bananas — Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
• North Korean cheese — Look for a soft and meltable cheese, similar to mozzarella or cheddar.
• North Korean smoked meat — If you can't find North Korean smoked meat, you can substitute it with bacon or any other smoked meat of your choice.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg over the bananas before baking.
• Serve the North Korean Cartola warm for the best taste and texture.
• You can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top for added sweetness, if desired.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
• Serve the dish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Serving advice

Serve the North Korean Cartola as a dessert or a sweet snack. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Presentation advice

To present the North Korean Cartola, arrange the golden banana slices with the melted cheese and crispy smoked meat on a serving platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint for a touch of elegance.