3 Easy Plantain Pancake Recipes You'll Love

Plantains, often known as cooking bananas, can transform into various delectable dishes, but one of the most delightful treats is a plantain pancake. Not only are they packed with a unique flavor that is both sweet and savory, but they also offer a nutritious twist to your traditional breakfast. Here, we'll explore three easy-to-make plantain pancake recipes that are sure to become your new favorite. Whether you're looking for a simple recipe with minimal ingredients or a more indulgent version with extra layers of flavor, there's something here for every palate.

Recipe 1: Classic Plantain Pancakes

Let's start with the classic, the simplest plantain pancake recipe:

• 1 large, ripe plantain, peeled
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour or oat flour for gluten-free
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• Butter or oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Mash the Plantain: Cut the plantain into chunks and mash it with a fork or blend until smooth.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed plantain with eggs, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until you have a smooth batter.
3. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter or oil, and ladle in the batter to form pancakes. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until the other side is golden brown.

Enjoy these fluffy pancakes with a drizzle of maple syrup, or top them with fruits and nuts for a wholesome breakfast.

🌿 Note: Ripe plantains will give you a sweeter taste, enhancing the flavor of your pancakes.

Recipe 2: Coconut Plantain Pancakes

For those who love the tropical twist, let's add some coconut:

• 1 large, ripe plantain, peeled
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
• 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Butter or coconut oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plantain: Mash the plantain until smooth.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the mashed plantain, coconut milk, eggs, shredded coconut, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Cooking: Heat butter or coconut oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Spoon batter onto the skillet to make pancakes. Cook until golden on one side, then flip and cook until done.

The coconut milk adds creaminess, and the shredded coconut gives a delightful texture. Serve with honey or a fruit compote for an extra touch of tropical sweetness.

Recipe 3: Spiced Plantain Pancakes with Caramel Sauce

For a more indulgent experience, here's a spiced version with a caramel twist:

• 2 ripe plantains
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• Oil or butter for cooking

Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup water
• ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Make the Batter: Mash the plantains. In a bowl, combine with eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the batter is smooth.
2. Cook the Pancakes: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Pour batter to form pancakes, cooking until edges look set, then flip and cook until golden.
3. Prepare the Caramel: In a heavy saucepan, cook sugar and water over medium heat until caramelized. Add cream slowly, then whisk in butter. Cook until it reaches desired consistency.

Serve these spiced pancakes drizzled with your homemade caramel sauce for a breakfast that feels like a treat.

🍳 Note: For a thicker caramel sauce, let it cook longer, but be careful not to burn it.

To wrap up, these three plantain pancake recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you prefer the straightforward sweetness of classic plantain pancakes, the tropical vibe of coconut, or the rich indulgence of spiced pancakes with caramel, there's a recipe for every mood and craving. Plantains bring a unique flavor to the table, making these pancakes not only a delightful twist on traditional breakfast but also a healthier option due to the rich nutritional content of plantains. Start your day with these easy-to-make, delicious pancakes, and bring a slice of tropical paradise to your kitchen table.

Can I use green plantains instead of ripe ones for these recipes?

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Green plantains can be used, but they will yield a starchier, less sweet pancake. For the sweetest flavor, use very ripe plantains which are soft and have a black or brown peel.

How do I store leftover plantain pancakes?

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Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. They can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to a month. Reheat in a toaster, oven, or microwave before serving.

Are these pancakes suitable for dietary restrictions?

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These recipes can be adapted. For gluten-free options, use oat flour or any gluten-free flour substitute. Vegan alternatives include using flax eggs for the egg replacement and non-dairy milk for the milk.