Plantain Puffs
	
		Plantain Puffs are a quick and easy snack featuring crispy, golden exteriors and tender, flavorful interiors. Made primarily with ripe plantains and simple ingredients, this snack is perfect for parties, appetizers, or a crunchy treat any time. They can be fried or baked, and customized to suit gluten-free and vegan diets.
	 
	
		
							- Author: Judy
 
							- Prep Time: 10 minutes
 
							- Cook Time: 15 minutes
 
							- Total Time: 25 minutes
 
							- Yield: About 20 puffs 1x
 
							- Category: Appetizers
 
							- Method: Frying or Baking
 
							- Cuisine: Caribbean/Latin American
 
							- Diet: Gluten Free (with flour substitution)
 
					
	 
	
		
		
			Main Ingredients
- 2 ripe plantains (peeled and mashed)
 
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea/rice flour for gluten-free)
 
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar, or use vegan cheese)
 
- 2 eggs
 
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
 
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
 
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
 
		 
	 
	
		
		
			
- Prepare the Plantains: Peel the ripe plantains and mash them thoroughly in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Ripe plantains are preferred for their natural sweetness and easy mashability.
 
- Mix the Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, grated cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper into the mashed plantains. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients combine into a thick, malleable batter perfect for shaping.
 
- Shape the Puffs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form small round balls or oval shapes from the mixture. Ensure the puffs are compact enough to hold together during frying or baking.
 
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or fryer and heat to medium-high until hot but not smoking for even, crispy cooking. (Skip if baking.)
 
- Fry the Plantain Puffs: Carefully drop the shaped puffs into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each puff for approximately 3-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy all over.
 
- Drain and Serve: Remove the puffs with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm for the best crunchy texture.
 
		 
	 
	
		Notes
		
			
- Choose ripe plantains for sweetness and easier mashing.
 
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
 
- Make puffs uniform in size for even cooking and presentation.
 
- Drain excess oil thoroughly to avoid soggy puffs.
 
- Additions like smoked paprika or garlic powder can enhance flavor.
 
		 
	 
	
		Nutrition
		
							- Serving Size: 3-4 puffs
 
							- Calories: 180
 
							- Sugar: 4g
 
							- Sodium: 210mg
 
							- Fat: 10g
 
							- Saturated Fat: 3g
 
							- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
 
							- Trans Fat: 0g
 
							- Carbohydrates: 18g
 
							- Fiber: 2g
 
							- Protein: 5g
 
							- Cholesterol: 55mg
 
					
	 
	
		Keywords: plantain puffs, crunchy snack, gluten-free snack, appetizer, plantain recipe, fried plantains, quick snack