Discover the secret to creating restaurant-style crispy plantains with mozzarella cheese at home! This dish features thinly sliced plantains, coated with seasoned eggs and breadcrumbs, and topped with grated mozzarella. It’s a perfect blend of crispy, savory, and cheesy goodness, perfect as a snack or a side dish.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 large green plantains (Machos)
- 100g (1 cup) mozzarella cheese, grated
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs, room temperature
- 50 ml (¼ cup) milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
- Peel the plantains by scoring the skin with a fork and cutting them into thin slices.
- Lightly coat the plantain slices in all-purpose flour.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl with milk, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Dip the floured plantain slices into the egg mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and grated mozzarella cheese.
- Coat the plantain slices in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the fried plantains to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to a meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these crispy plantains as an appetizer with salsa or sour cream.
- Pair them with a grilled meat or fish for a hearty meal.
- They also make a great side dish for rice and beans.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure the plantains are firm and green for the perfect texture.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can make them soggy.
- For extra crispiness, double-dip the plantains in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Plantains are a good source of potassium and dietary fiber.
- Eggs and mozzarella add protein and calcium to this dish.
- Breadcrumbs provide a crunchy texture without overwhelming the natural flavor of the plantains.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Contains gluten (from breadcrumbs and flour)
- Contains dairy (from cheese)
- Contains eggs
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Calcium: 150mg
- Potassium: 550mg
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Not recommended for freezing as they may lose their texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This dish is quick and easy, with only a few ingredients required.
- The combination of crispy plantains and gooey cheese is irresistible.
- It’s versatile enough to be served as a snack, side, or even as a main course.
- Perfect for impressing guests with a restaurant-quality dish that’s homemade.
Conclusion
Crispy plantains with mozzarella cheese offer a delightful balance of savory flavors and crunchy textures that will surely impress anyone you serve them to. With just a few steps and common ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or pairing it with a meal, these cheesy plantains are a guaranteed hit. Try them out and enjoy a taste of luxury in your own home!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ripe plantains instead of green ones?
Ripe plantains will give a sweeter flavor and softer texture, which can change the dish’s taste. - Can I bake the plantains instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or any meltable cheese. - What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or crushed crackers can be used for a different texture. - Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, you can use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and an egg substitute to make it vegan-friendly. - How do I prevent the plantains from getting soggy?
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. - What other dips can I serve with this?
Try serving with guacamole, garlic aioli, or a spicy mayo dip for a tasty twist. - Can I use a non-stick pan for frying?
Yes, a non-stick pan works well, but be sure to use enough oil for even frying. - How thick should I slice the plantains?
Aim for about ¼-inch thick slices for a balance between crispy and tender. - Can I prepare the plantains ahead of time?
You can slice and coat the plantains ahead of time, but it’s best to fry them right before serving for optimal crispiness.