Caribbean Spiced Plantain Pancakes

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Indian Thalipeeth is transformed into Caribbean Spiced Plantain Pancakes. The original Thalipeeth is made with a mixture of flours, spices, and vegetables, while the Caribbean version replaces the flours with ripe plantains and incorporates Caribbean spices for a distinct flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Thalipeeth, so you can check it out.

• 2 ripe plantains, mashed 2 ripe plantains, mashed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g) 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup coconut milk (60ml) 1/4 cup coconut milk (60ml)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Coconut oil, for cooking Coconut oil, for cooking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed plantains, all-purpose flour, baking powder, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the coconut milk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. 3.
   Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with coconut oil.
4. 4.
   Spoon about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
5. 5.
   Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more coconut oil to the skillet as needed.
6. 6.
   Serve the Caribbean Spiced Plantain Pancakes warm with a dollop of coconut yogurt and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ripe plantains — Choose plantains that are yellow with black spots, as they will be sweeter and easier to mash.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pancake batter.
• Serve the pancakes with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
• Experiment with different toppings such as fresh fruit, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
• Make sure the skillet is well-greased with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
• To keep the pancakes warm while cooking the remaining batches, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C).

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean Spiced Plantain Pancakes warm with a dollop of coconut yogurt and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. They are perfect for breakfast or brunch, and can also be enjoyed as a dessert.

Presentation advice

Stack the pancakes on a plate and garnish with a few slices of fresh plantain and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Serve with a side of tropical fruit salad for a vibrant and colorful presentation.