Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Guatemala with Plátanos en Mole. This traditional dish combines ripe plantains with a rich and savory mole sauce, creating a symphony of sweet and savory tastes that dance on your palate. Sourced from age-old recipes passed down through generations, Plátanos en Mole captures the essence of Guatemalan cuisine, offering a tantalizing blend of indigenous ingredients and Spanish influences. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal at home or savored during festive gatherings, this dish embodies the warmth and hospitality of Guatemala's culinary heritage. Delight your senses and experience the true essence of Guatemala with every indulgent bite of Plátanos en Mole.

Ingredients:

For the Plátanos (Ripe Plantains):

• 4 ripe plantains
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Mole Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons almonds
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 2 dried ancho chilies, seeded and soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
• 2 dried pasilla chilies, seeded and soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
• 2 dried guajillo chilies, seeded and soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 ounces Mexican chocolate, chopped
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1- Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into diagonal slices.

2- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the plantain slices and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3- In a separate large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

4- Add the diced tomatoes, sesame seeds, almonds, and raisins to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are soft, about 5 minutes.

5- Drain the soaked chilies and add them to the skillet along with 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6- Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth, adding more broth if needed to achieve a thick sauce consistency.

7- Return the blended sauce to the skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped Mexican chocolate, cinnamon stick, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the sauce is well combined.

8- Add the remaining broth to the skillet and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

9- Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked plantain slices to the skillet. Gently toss to coat the plantains in the mole sauce.

10- Serve the Plátanos en Mole hot, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped cilantro if desired. Enjoy this delightful taste of Guatemala's culinary heritage!

Nutritional Values :

Ripe Plantains (per 1 medium-sized plantain):

• Calories: 218
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 31g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Protein: 1.5g

benefits : Rich in carbohydrates for energy, fiber for digestive health, and vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin A.

Vegetable Oil (per 1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 14g

benefits : Provides essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins, helps in absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and adds flavor to dishes.

Onion (per 1 medium onion):

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 1g

benefits : Contains antioxidants, vitamins C and B6, and prebiotic fibers that support gut health and may help reduce inflammation.

Garlic (per 3 cloves):

• Calories: 13
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Protein: 0.6g

benefits : Rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure

Tomatoes (per 1 medium tomato):

• Calories: 22
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 1g

benefits : Excellent source of vitamins C, K, and potassium, as well as antioxidants such as lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and support heart health.

Sesame Seeds (per 1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 52
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g

benefits : High in healthy fats, protein, fiber, and various minerals including calcium, magnesium, and iron. They also contain antioxidants and may help lower cholesterol.

Almonds (per 1 ounce):

• Calories: 164
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 3.5g
• Sugar: 1g
• Fat: 14g
• Protein: 6g

benefits : Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, protein, fiber, vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants. They promote heart health, aid in weight management, and support brain function.

Raisins (per 1 ounce):

• Calories: 85
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g

benefits : Provide quick energy due to their natural sugars, contain fiber for digestive health, and are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like iron and potassium.

Dried Chilies (Ancho, Pasilla, Guajillo):

• Calories: Varies depending on size and type but generally low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins.

benefits : Excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth (per 1 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 10-20 (depending on whether it's homemade or store-bought and whether it's low-sodium or regular)
• Sodium: Varies (check packaging)

benefits : Hydrating and provides electrolytes, collagen, and essential minerals. It can also support immune function and gut health.

Mexican Chocolate (per 1 ounce):

• Calories: Approximately 150-170
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
• Fat: Approximately 9-12g
• Sugar: Approximately 10-15g

benefits : Contains antioxidants and minerals like iron, magnesium, and copper. It may also provide a mood boost and support heart health.

Cinnamon Stick, Ground Cumin, Salt, and Pepper:

• Calories: Negligible

benefits : Provide flavor and aroma to dishes and may have various health benefits such as aiding digestion and providing small amounts of essential nutrients.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, preparation method, and serving size. It's always a good idea to check the nutrition labels on specific products for the most accurate information.