Ingredients
For the dough:
- 4 ripe plantains
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra if needed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Oil for frying
For the filling:
- 200 g diced ham
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, optional
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
Instructions
- Peel the plantains, cut them into chunks, and boil for 15–20 minutes until tender. Drain and mash thoroughly.
- Let the mashed plantains cool slightly. Add the egg, flour, salt, and paprika. Mix until you have a soft dough.
- In a bowl, combine the diced ham, mozzarella, cheddar, black pepper, parsley, and optional cream cheese.
- Divide the dough into equal portions and flatten each portion into a circle using lightly oiled parchment paper.
- Place a spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each circle. Avoid overfilling, as this can cause the empanadas to open during cooking.
- Fold each circle in half and press the edges firmly to seal.
- Heat the oil over medium heat and fry the empanadas for approximately 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Transfer to paper towels and let rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the melted cheese to settle slightly.
Serving suggestion: Serve with a fresh tomato salad or a simple yogurt dipping sauce.
4. Extra-Cheesy Plantain Empanadas 🧀✨
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 4 ripe plantains
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra if needed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Oil for frying
For the filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 100 g Monterey Jack or another good melting cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the peeled plantains in water for 15–20 minutes, until completely tender. Drain thoroughly and mash until smooth.
- Allow the mash to cool slightly, then mix in the egg, flour, salt, and garlic powder until a soft dough forms.
- Combine the mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, oregano, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Divide the dough into equal portions and flatten each into a circle between two pieces of lightly oiled parchment paper.
- Place a small amount of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle, leaving enough space around the edges to seal properly.
- Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together firmly with your fingers or a fork.
- Heat the oil over medium heat. Fry the empanadas for 3–5 minutes per side, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent the outside from browning too quickly.
- Remove when golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and allow to rest briefly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Ripe Plantain Empanadas
- Choose ripe plantains: Look for yellow skins with plenty of black spots. They should be soft and sweet but not spoiled.
- Remove excess moisture: Drain the boiled plantains thoroughly. Excess water can make the dough sticky and difficult to shape.
- Adjust the dough carefully: Add flour a tablespoon at a time until the dough can be handled without sticking excessively.
- Cool the filling: Hot fillings can soften the dough and make sealing more difficult.
- Seal the edges well: Press firmly around the entire edge to help prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.
- Control the oil temperature: Medium heat helps the empanadas develop a golden crust while cooking evenly.
- Try baking instead: Brush the empanadas lightly with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for approximately 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden. The texture will be different from fried empanadas.
- Make them ahead: Prepare and shape the empanadas in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to cook. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
These four variations bring together the natural sweetness of ripe plantains and the savory goodness of flavorful fillings. From seasoned ground beef to tender chicken and stretchy melted cheese, there is an option for every craving. Serve them fresh and warm for the best combination of a golden exterior and a soft, delicious center!
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