Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Guatemala with Rellenitos de Plátano, a beloved traditional dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its irresistible combination of ripe plantains and sweetened black beans. This culinary gem showcases the country's rich culinary heritage, offering a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.

Prepared by mashing ripe plantains into a soft dough, which is then filled with a velvety mixture of cooked black beans infused with sugar and spices, Rellenitos de Plátano is a testament to Guatemala's ingenuity in transforming simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. After shaping the dough into small patties, they are fried until golden brown, resulting in a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the luscious sweetness within.

Whether enjoyed as a decadent dessert or a satisfying snack, Rellenitos de Plátano captures the essence of Guatemala's vibrant food culture, inviting you on a culinary journey filled with warmth and flavor. Delight your senses and experience the joy of this cherished Guatemalan delicacy.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe plantains
• 1 cup cooked black beans
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Pinch of salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Optional toppings: powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or grated cheese

Instructions:

Prepare the Plantains:

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

2- Place the plantain chunks in a pot of boiling water and cook until they are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

3- Drain the cooked plantains and mash them in a bowl until smooth. Set aside.

Prepare the Sweetened Black Beans:

1- In a separate bowl, combine the cooked black beans, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt.

2- Mash the mixture until the beans are well incorporated with the sugar and spices. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preference.

Assemble the Rellenitos:

1- Take a small portion of the mashed plantains and flatten it into a disk in the palm of your hand.

2- Spoon a small amount of the sweetened black bean mixture onto the center of the plantain disk.

3- Fold the edges of the plantain disk over the black bean filling, shaping it into an oval or cylindrical shape. Ensure the filling is completely enclosed within the plantain dough.

Fry the Rellenitos:

1- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

2- Carefully place the assembled Rellenitos into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

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

4- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried Rellenitos from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve and Enjoy:

1- Serve the Rellenitos de Plátano hot as a delicious dessert or snack.

2- Optionally, sprinkle powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or grated cheese on top before serving for added flavor.

Enjoy the delightful sweetness and crunchy texture of Guatemala's Rellenitos de Plátano!

Nutritional Values :

Ripe Plantains (1 cup, mashed):

• Calories: 200
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 31g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.5g

benefits

• Rich source of complex carbohydrates for energy.
• High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6, supporting overall health and immune function.

Cooked Black Beans (1 cup):

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

benefits

• Excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• High in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
• Contains antioxidants and phytonutrients, offering potential health benefits such as reduced inflammation and improved heart health.

Brown Sugar (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 209
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Sugar: 54g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Provides quick energy due to its high carbohydrate content.
• Adds sweetness and flavor to dishes without the processing associated with white sugar.
• Contains trace amounts of minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium compared to refined white sugar.

Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon):

• Calories: 3
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially offering various health benefits such as improved heart health and reduced risk of chronic diseases.
• May help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Adds a warm, sweet flavor to dishes without adding calories or sugar.

Ground Cloves (1/4 teaspoon):

• Calories: 2
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation.
• Contains compounds with antimicrobial properties, potentially aiding in fighting off infections and promoting oral health.
• Adds a warm, spicy flavor to dishes and beverages.

Vegetable Oil (for frying):

• Calories: 120 (per tablespoon)
• Fat: 14g
• No significant carbohydrates or protein

benefits

• Provides essential fatty acids necessary for cell structure and function.
• Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
• Adds moisture and crispness to fried foods when used in moderation.

Total Nutritional Values for One Serving of Rellenitos de Plátano (estimated):

• Calories: Approximately 700-750
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 150g
• Fiber: Approximately 20g
• Sugar: Approximately 86g
• Protein: Approximately 16g
• Fat: Approximately 15-16.5g

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as ingredient brands, specific measurements, and cooking methods. Additionally, these values are based on a single serving size and may need to be adjusted based on portion size and individual dietary needs.