Plantains are a tasty delicacy that is popular in Africa, South and Central America, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia. You may have also come across plantain when picking up a bunch of bananas at the store. However, you may not be aware of the health benefits of Hawaiian plantain and its traditional applications, making it a global favorite.
Plantains are said to be a superfood. They contain nearly twice as much vitamin A, three times as much vitamin C, double the magnesium, and nearly twice as much potassium as a regular banana. Maqueo (Hawaiian Plantain) is a soft kind of plantain that differs from the usual varieties. It also cooks tenderly and stays soft and fresh for an extended period of time. The best thing is that plantains may be used to produce savory meals by boiling, steaming, baking, or even frying them.
What is Hawaiian Plantain?
The Hawaiian plantain, often known as “the greatest cooking bananas on the earth,” is unusual among bananas as it can be eaten both cooked and raw. The Hawaiian plantain is generally sliced into slices and fried, as it is sweeter, sturdier, and simpler to peel than most other plantain kinds. Then they’re smashed and cooked once more to make a crunchy ‘chip’ with a deliciously creamy middle. Sweet ingredients like honey are used in other traditional Hawaiian plantain dishes.
The Hawaiian plantain, unlike other conventional plantains, may be eaten raw and is much easier to peel. Plantains that are chunkier and smaller than ordinary plantains are available. They may be boiled, baked, fried, or steamed and are high in potassium and fiber.
Benefits of Hawaiian Plantain
Plantains just hadn’t become one of the world’s most admired carbohydrates by chance; this fruit possesses all of the characteristics of staple food, including great nutritional value. Plantains are a satisfying and delightful complement to any meal, and they may also improve your health and well-being. Some health benefits of Hawaiian plantain are as follows:
- Hawaiian Plantains are a good source of complex carbs, with over 30 grams per serving and a good amount of dietary fiber.
- A single plantain contains around 22% of your daily required vitamin C, which is enough to strengthen and enhance your immune system and help you fight off sickness.
- Plantains include 11 percent of your daily potassium need, so if you’re not already a fan of the starchy banana’s flavor, give it a try for heart health.
Hawaiian plantain Recipes:
If you want to try your hand at following Hawaiian plantain recipes at home, start with some of the more popular and traditional techniques. Hawaiian plantain may be prepared in three different ways, all of which are delicious:
- Maduros are a traditional Central and South American dish. Maduros are made by slicing sweet, ripened plantains at an angle, and pan-frying in hot vegetable oil. It is the simplest method to begin eating Hawaiian plantain at home.
- To prepare tostones, first cook green Hawaiian plantain slices till golden brown in a pan. Then flatten the disk to a thickness of half inches. After that, each plantain disk is deep-fried till crisp, seasoned with a pinch of salt, and served immediately.
- Mofongo is one of the most commonly consumed Hawaiian plantain recipes made by slicing and frying green plantains in the same way that tostones are prepared. After the plantains have become yellow and mushy, crush them in a mortar. Pestle raw garlic, herbs, and broth together until smooth. The mofongo is then served with other foods in the same manner as potatoes, bread, or spaghetti are served in North America. Pork rinds, fried meats, and other items are sometimes added to mofongo.
Hawaiian Plantain Nutrition Facts
The plantain is a green, starchy fruit that is grown in the tropics and is the same species as the banana. A whole plantain contains about 160 calories and 25 grams of carbs. The plantain also contains 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving which makes it a great carbohydrate choice for those with diabetes or who are trying to lose weight. Plantains also contain 1 gram of protein and 2 grams of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer.
It’s not just non-GMO many people are choosing to avoid conventionally grown produce because they believe it’s not safe for consumption.
The Hawaiian plantain is a healthy food choice because it is high in fiber and low in fat.
These weedy green plants are native to Asia and Europe, but they may now be found growing almost everywhere there is enough water. Plantain leaves are mostly utilized in medicine. Plantains are consumed on a regular basis by people all over the world, and the answer to when you should eat them is: whenever you like!
