Looking to try something new and exciting? These Cheesy Sweet Plantain Empanadas are a delicious twist on a classic dish, bringing the sunny flavors of the Caribbean right to your kitchen. While they’re a popular snack in places like Venezuela, they’re versatile enough to be served for breakfast, or even as a unique side dish with veggies or rice.
The combination of sweet plantain and salty, melted cheese creates a truly unique and delicious flavor. With a crispy fried shell and a gooey, irresistible center, these empanadas are a treat the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe, sweet plantains
- 8 cups water
- Salt to taste
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup flour (plus more as needed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla sugar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or another soft, melty cheese)
- 2-3 cups oil for frying
- 1 tbsp sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Boil the Plantains: Wash the plantains well and cut them in half with the skin on. Place them in a large pot with 8 cups of salted water and boil for 5-7 minutes, until they are tender.
- Make the Dough: Remove the plantains from the water, peel them, and mash them with a fork until they form a smooth purée. Transfer the purée to a bowl and let it cool slightly.
- Form the Dough: Add the egg, flour, and vanilla extract to the plantain purée. Mix well. If the dough is still sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it’s easy to handle. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Shape the Empanadas: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each one into a ball. Flatten each ball into a round disk. Place a spoonful of cheese in the center of each disk, fold it in half, and pinch the edges firmly to seal.
- Fry: Heat a deep pan with enough oil to submerge the empanadas. Fry the empanadas on both sides until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer them to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- The Final Touch: Sprinkle the empanadas with sugar and serve hot.
Tip:
These empanadas are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a light yogurt-based sauce or a sweet sauce made from sour cream and fruit jam. They’re also a great snack to enjoy with coffee or tea.
