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When it comes to culinary creations that are both delightful and nourishing, Sweet and Savory Baked Plantain Boats stand out as a unique dish that brings together a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This innovative recipe takes ripe plantains, a staple in many tropical cuisines, and transforms them into edible vessels filled with a delicious mixture of black beans, corn, and vibrant vegetables. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness from the plantains and savory notes from the filling, making it an appealing choice for anyone looking to enhance their meal repertoire.

Sweet and Savory Baked Plantain Boats

Discover the delicious fusion of flavors with Sweet and Savory Baked Plantain Boats. This innovative dish transforms ripe plantains into delightful edible vessels filled with a savory blend of black beans, corn, and vibrant vegetables. Not only are plantains a nutritious powerhouse, but this recipe is also simple enough for anyone to create. Enjoy a wholesome meal that's both satisfying and healthy, perfect for any occasion or gathering. Indulge your taste buds and explore the joy of cooking with this unique plant-based dish!
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Ingredients
  

3 ripe plantains (yellow with a few black spots)

1 cup cooked black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup diced red onion

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 avocado, sliced

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or vegan cheese (optional)

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Olive oil

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Prepare the Plantains: Slice the plantains in half lengthwise, keeping the peel on to create “boats.” Place them (cut side up) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle them lightly with salt.

      Bake the Plantains: Bake the plantains in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and slightly crispy.

        Make the Filling: While the plantains are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, and sauté the diced red onion and bell pepper until softened, around 5 minutes. Stir in the black beans, corn, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the mixture is heated through.

          Stuff the Boats: Once the plantains are tender and baked, remove them from the oven. Gently scoop out a little of the flesh from the center of each plantain half to create more space for the filling. Spoon the black bean and corn mixture generously into each plantain boat.

            Final Bake: Return the stuffed plantains to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to warm through and blend the flavors.

              Serve and Garnish: Remove the plantain boats from the oven, and top each with slices of avocado and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

                Enjoy!: Dig in and enjoy the delightful balance of sweet plantains with the savory filling!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings