Dive into the heart of Panamanian cuisine with "Platano en Tentación" – a delightful dessert featuring ripe plantains caramelized in a sweet, spiced syrup. Infused with cinnamon and enriched with a hint of orange juice, this dish offers a perfect blend of sweetness and warmth. Whether served as a dessert, side, or a decadent breakfast topping, it's sure to bring a touch of tropical indulgence to your table.
4ripe plantainsthey should be yellow with black spots for the perfect sweetness
1cupof brown sugaradjust based on your sweetness preference
1cupof water
1cinnamon stickor 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/2teaspoonof salt
2tablespoonsof butter
1/2cupof orange juicefor added depth and acidity
Optional:
A splash of rum for an adult twist
Instructions
Prepare the Plantains: Peel the plantains and cut them into slices, either diagonally for larger pieces or round slices for quicker cooking.
Caramelize the Plantains: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the plantains and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they start to turn golden.
Create the Syrup: To the skillet, add the brown sugar, water, cinnamon stick, salt, and orange juice. If you're including rum, add it now. Stir gently to combine.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the plantains are tender and the sauce has thickened into a rich syrup. Occasionally, spoon the syrup over the plantains to ensure they're evenly coated.
Serve: Once the plantains are tender and caramelized, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed on its own, or as a side to complement savory dishes.
Notes
Choosing Plantains: Look for plantains that are ripe but firm. They should have yellow skins with black spots; this indicates they're sweet enough for the dish but won't fall apart while cooking.
Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference and the natural sweetness of the plantains. If the plantains are very ripe and sweet, you might want to use a little less sugar.
Rum Substitution: The rum is optional and can be omitted if you prefer not to use alcohol. As an alternative, a teaspoon of vanilla extract can add depth to the flavor profile without alcohol.
Serving Suggestions: While delicious on its own, "Platano en Tentación" can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a luxurious breakfast.
Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added water to loosen the syrup before serving.
Watching the Syrup: Keep an eye on the plantains as they simmer in the syrup, especially towards the end of the cooking time. The syrup can thicken quickly, and stirring occasionally will prevent it from sticking to the pan and ensure the plantains cook evenly.
Serving Temperature: This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. The flavors tend to meld and deepen as the dish cools.
Customization: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or clove for a different flavor profile, or top with toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
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