Delve into the heart of El Salvadoran cuisine with this classic dish, Platano con Frijoles. Ripe plantains, known as platanos, are fried to golden perfection and paired with savory refried beans, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that epitomize the rich culinary heritage of El Salvador. Experience the warmth and authenticity of Central American cooking with every bite of this beloved traditional dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe plantains
• 1 cup refried beans (homemade or canned)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (queso fresco or mozzarella)
• Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

1- Peel the plantains and cut them into 2-inch sections.

2- Use a knife to make a lengthwise slit in each plantain section, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create a pocket for the filling.

3- Heat the cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

4- Carefully place the plantains in the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown and slightly caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

5- Once the plantains have cooled slightly, gently open the slit in each plantain and stuff with refried beans and shredded cheese.

6- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed plantains in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the plantains are heated through.

7- Serve the Platano con Frijoles hot as a delicious appetizer or side dish. Enjoy the combination of sweet plantains, savory beans, and gooey cheese in every bite!

Feel free to adjust the amount of filling according to your preference, and you can also add other toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of crema if desired.

Nutritional Values:

Ripe Plantains (1 medium-sized plantain, approximately 179g):

• Calories: 218
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 1.5g
• Fat: 0.5g

benefits

• Rich source of carbohydrates, providing energy.
• Contains dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
• Good source of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium.

Refried Beans (1 cup, approximately 250g):

• Calories: 227
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 13g
• Fat: 1g

benefits

• High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to maintain a feeling of fullness.
• Excellent source of plant-based protein, important for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in essential nutrients such as iron, folate, and magnesium.

Shredded Cheese (1/2 cup, approximately 56g):

• Calories: 213
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 13g
• Fat: 18g
• Calcium: 378mg

benefits

• Good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Contains calcium, promoting bone health and muscle function.
• Provides healthy fats, which are important for brain function and hormone regulation.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands used, cooking methods, and portion sizes. Additionally, if you're following a specific diet or have dietary restrictions, it's essential to adjust the ingredients or portion sizes accordingly.