Vegan Plantain Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious

Plantains are a versatile and delicious staple in many cuisines around the world, especially in tropical regions. Unlike bananas, plantains are starchy and less sweet when unripe, making them perfect for savory dishes.

When ripe, they become sweet and tender, ideal for desserts or snacks. Exploring vegan plantain recipes opens up a world of flavorful, nutritious meals that are both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Whether you prefer them fried, baked, or mashed, plantains provide a hearty base that pairs beautifully with a variety of spices and vegetables.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into some exciting vegan plantain recipes that highlight the fruit’s versatility and vibrant flavors. From crispy to creamy, sweet to savory, these dishes are perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based options to their menu.

Plus, plantains are packed with essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Let’s get cooking and discover why plantains deserve a spot in your vegan recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Plantains are fantastic because they can be transformed into a wide range of dishes that suit any meal of the day. These vegan plantain recipes are easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and use simple ingredients that you might already have on hand.

Not only do they provide a unique texture and flavor, but they’re also gluten-free and naturally vegan, making them suitable for many dietary needs.

Plantains are a nutrient powerhouse, offering complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and essential vitamins to keep you healthy. These recipes showcase the best ways to cook plantains without any animal products, relying on herbs, spices, and plant-based oils for richness and taste.

Whether you’re craving a crispy snack or a comforting side, these recipes are sure to please your palate and your body.

Ingredients

• 2 large green plantains (for savory dishes)
• 2 ripe yellow plantains (for sweet recipes)
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil or any neutral oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lime (for zest and juice)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 cup black beans, cooked (optional for hearty bowls)
• 1 avocado, sliced (for serving)
• Maple syrup or agave (optional for sweet plantain dishes)

Equipment

• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking sheet (if baking plantains)
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula or tongs
• Measuring spoons
• Blender or food processor (optional, for mashed plantains)

Instructions

Recipe 1: Crispy Vegan Tostones (Fried Green Plantains)

1. Peel the green plantains: Cut off both ends, score the skin lengthwise, and carefully remove the peel.
2. Slice the plantains: Cut into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Fry the plantain slices: Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden but not fully cooked through.
5. Remove from pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Flatten each slice: Use the bottom of a glass or a flat spatula to press each fried slice until about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Return flattened slices to the skillet and fry again for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
8. Season immediately with salt, smoked paprika, and a squeeze of lime juice.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with your favorite vegan dip or salsa.

Recipe 2: Sweet Baked Ripe Plantains

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the ripe plantains (yellow with black spots) and slice diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the plantain slices in a single layer.
4. Brush each slice lightly with melted coconut oil and drizzle with maple syrup or agave for extra sweetness.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and caramelized.
6. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and cinnamon if desired.
7. Serve warm as a dessert or a sweet snack, perhaps with vegan yogurt or nut butter on the side.

Recipe 3: Plantain and Black Bean Bowl

1. Prepare tostones using the instructions above or bake plantains for a healthier option.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked black beans with finely chopped red onion, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the plantains on a serving plate or bowl.
4. Top with the black bean mixture and sliced avocado.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra kick.
6. Enjoy as a hearty lunch or dinner bowl packed with protein and complex carbs.

Tips & Variations

“When frying plantains, make sure your oil is hot enough to prevent sogginess but not so hot that it burns them instantly.”

Try adding different spices such as chili powder or cinnamon depending on whether you want savory or sweet plantain dishes. For a creamy twist, mash ripe plantains with garlic, lime juice, and a touch of olive oil for a delicious vegan side similar to mashed potatoes.

If you want to experiment, use plantain flour in baking or as a thickener in soups. You can also combine plantains with other tropical fruits like mango or pineapple to create refreshing salads or salsas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan plantain recipes can be served as appetizers, sides, or main dishes. Crispy tostones make an excellent snack or party appetizer served with guacamole or your favorite vegan salsa.

Sweet baked plantains are perfect alongside vegan yogurt or sprinkled with nuts for a breakfast treat.

For a complete meal, try pairing plantains with black beans, rice, and sautéed greens for a balanced bowl. You can also incorporate plantains into wraps, tacos, or salads for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Check out our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners for more creative ideas to complement your plantain dishes.

Conclusion

Vegan plantain recipes offer a delicious and nutritious way to diversify your plant-based cooking. Whether you prefer the crispy texture of fried tostones or the natural sweetness of baked ripe plantains, these recipes are easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Plantains bring a unique combination of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support a healthy lifestyle while satisfying your taste buds.

By incorporating plantains into your meals, you can enjoy traditional flavors with a vegan twist, perfect for family dinners, snacks, or festive occasions. Don’t forget to explore other exciting plant-based recipes like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or the hearty options in our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Happy cooking!

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