Indulge in the delectable flavors of Honduras with our mouthwatering Rellenitos! These irresistible treats are a beloved staple of Honduran cuisine, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory. Made from ripe plantains mashed to perfection, infused with cinnamon, and filled with a rich, creamy center of sweetened black beans, each bite of Rellenitos promises a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Central America. Whether enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or a special treat, Rellenitos encapsulate the warmth and hospitality of Honduran culinary tradition, making every bite a truly unforgettable experience.

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 1 cup cooked black beans
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the dough:

• 4 ripe plantains
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

1- In a saucepan, combine the cooked black beans, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.

2- Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and the sugar is fully dissolved.

3- Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely.

Prepare the Dough:

1- Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into chunks.

2- Boil the plantain chunks in water until they are soft, about 10-15 minutes.

3- Drain the boiled plantains and mash them into a smooth consistency. You can use a fork or a potato masher for this.

Assemble the Rellenitos:

1- Take a small portion of the mashed plantains (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your hand to form a small disc.

2- Place a spoonful of the sweetened black bean filling in the center of the disc.

3- Carefully fold the edges of the mashed plantain over the filling to enclose it completely, shaping it into an oval or round shape.

4- Repeat this process with the remaining mashed plantains and filling until all the Rellenitos are assembled.

Fry the Rellenitos:

1- In a deep frying pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.

2- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the assembled Rellenitos in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.

3- Fry the Rellenitos until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

4- Remove the fried Rellenitos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Serve:

1- Allow the Rellenitos to cool slightly before serving.

2- Serve them warm as a delightful dessert or snack, sprinkled with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Honduras Rellenitos filled with sweetened black beans!

Nutritional Values :

Black Beans (cooked):

1 cup (about 172g) of cooked black beans contains:

• Calories: 227 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 15g
• Fat: 1g

benefits

• Excellent source of plant-based protein.
• High in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Rich in antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals, such as folate, magnesium, and iron.

Brown Sugar:

1/4 cup (about 50g) of brown sugar contains:

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Sugars: 51g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits

• Provides quick energy due to its high carbohydrate content.
• Adds sweetness and flavor to dishes.
• Contains small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.

Ground Cinnamon:

1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon contains:

• Calories: 3 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Calcium: 12mg
• Iron: 0.1mg

benefits

• Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• May help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Adds warmth and depth of flavor to dishes.

Ripe Plantains:

4 ripe plantains (about 640g) contain approximately:

• Calories: 580 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 150g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugars: 68g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 1g

benefits

• Good source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• High in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting feelings of fullness.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium.

Vegetable Oil (for frying):

2-3 cups of vegetable oil (for frying) contains:

• Calories: Approximately 2400-3600 kcal (depending on the amount used)
• Fat: Approximately 270-405g (depending on the type and amount used)

benefits

• Provides essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, necessary for overall health.
• Acts as a source of energy and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Can contribute to a crispy texture and golden color when frying foods.

These values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as brand, cooking methods, and specific varieties of ingredients used. It's important to note that frying adds additional calories and fat, so the nutritional values may increase accordingly.