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Tuesday, 2 June 2015

Plantain loaf

Often times, the question comes up, I have plantains getting overripe and I don't want to waste it, what do I do?

This is one of my favorite recipes for utilizing plantains. Whats more its a healthy powerhouse of goodness as it combines nuts and seeds that are super healthy and uses no butter. If you ever needed a guilt free treat, this is it!!!.. Remember to preheat you oven, before preparing your loaf

INGREDIENTS

1 ripe plantain

3/4 Cup linseed or flaxseed

3/4 Cup pistachios (break/blend into piece)

3 eggs

1tsp baking powder

For topping

1tbsp stevia sweetener or any powdered sweetener/sugar

20g slivered/sliced almonds

1/2 tbsp pistachios

PREPARATION

Start by mashing the plantain

Next add in the eggs, then whisk

Whisk until frothy

Next add in the linseed

Then the crushed pistachios

Tip in the baking powder

Combine gently using a wooden spoon or spatula

Next pour into a grease floured tin, Top with sweetener, almond and done pistachios then bake in the oven for 25-30mins on medium heat.

Looks so yummy, fresh and tasty

Perfect with a hot mug of green tea, on a lazy afternoon all 100% guilt free

Friday, 27 March 2015

FROM GHANA WITH LOVE...KELEWELE

Kelewele is a popular Ghanian snack dish of fried spicy plantain. If all you are used to is the regular fried plantain, just get your tastebuds ready for the next level in this plantain business.
The combination of seasonings and spices combined with the sweet ripe plantain create a flavor profile that is just amazing!!!

The best part of it is that you may not need a lot ingredients beyond what's already in your pantry.

INGREDIENTS
5 ripe plantains
Thumb sized fresh ginger, grated or crushed
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chilli flakes*
Garlic to your taste
Vegetable Oil for frying

*Adjust the quantity depending on the number of people you are serving, I'll be using 5 plantains for 5 people as it would be a main dish for some of my family.
*Fresh scotch bonnet/ ata rodo can also be used

I begin by crushing my garlic and ginger together in my little mortar and setting it aside.

*Spices can also be blended in your electric blender especially if using fresh peppers, remember to use as little water as possible if going for that option.

Slice your plantains diagonally (you can also cut into cubes)

Begin adding your spices and seasonings to the sliced plantain. Here you see me add the crushed garlic and ginger, then some seasalt.
*Use any salt of your choice.

I add the chilli flakes into the mix...

Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasoning goes round well.

Cover and set aside the mixture for about 10 minutes to allow the flavours combine well and for the plantain to absorb it all well.

Heat up your oil and begin frying.

Depending on the heat and your quantity, it should start turning golden brown in about 7 minutes. Bring out of the oil and put on paper towels to absorb excess oil or a colander to drain off the excess oil.