Healthy Plantain Waffles
Make these healthy plantain waffles for your loved ones and create lasting memories. These mouthwatering waffles are a perfect blend of sweet and savoury. They are easy to make, require just a few ingredients, and will impress your loved ones with their delightful taste.
Today, I have a surprise in store!
If you’re a plantain lover like me, well, get ready to do a little happy dance, because today we are making plantain waffles! This one is not just for serious plantain lovers, but also brunch lovers, And let me assure you, this is no ordinary treat.
These healthy plantain waffles are also not just a treat for yourself. They are an opportunity to show your loved ones just how special they are.
I remember the first time I made these heavenly treats. It was a random weekday and I wanted to surprise my sister with a brunch that would make her day. Little did I know, that it would also spark some sibling rivalry.
“You didn’t make enough!” she exclaimed, her disappointment evident.
“Sis, these are so good, why didn’t you make more?”
That day, we devoured every last crumb of those plantain waffles, savouring each bite as if it were our last. We laughed, we reminisced, and as always, we bonded over the sheer pleasure that food can bring.
These savoury plantain waffles are a masterpiece, a true welcoming blend of sweet-savoury flavours that will transport you to a world of pure delight. With a hint of natural sweetness, these waffles are crispy, golden, and soft on the inside.
I hope that you too can enjoy these healthy plantain waffles with your loved ones, creating beautiful memories and strengthening your bonds over the simple pleasure of good food.
Fun facts about Plantains
Now just in case you are unfamiliar with plantains, I’ve included a section of a brief history and some facts for you.
Plantains, often mistaken for bananas, are a different fruit altogether. Just the other day, we caught my brother about to peel a plantain, thinking it was a banana. It’s a common mistake that many people make, but once you taste a plantain, you’ll quickly realise that they are quite different from their sweeter counterparts. Plantains are starchier and less sweet than bananas, making them perfect for savoury dishes like fried plantains or plantain soup.
These versatile fruits have been cultivated and consumed in various cultures worldwide. They are believed to have originated in Southeast Asia and were later introduced to West Africa, where they became a staple food. From there, they were brought to the Caribbean and Latin America during the era of colonisation.
They are incredibly versatile and can be used in savoury and sweet dishes. While bananas are typically eaten when they are ripe and yellow, plantains are consumed at various stages of ripeness. When they are green, they are starchier and used in savoury dishes like plantain chips. As they ripen and turn yellow or black, they become sweeter.
Why Choose Plantains for Waffles? Why Not?
Why choose plantains for waffles? Well, let me tell you, plantains are simply irresistible. I have yet to meet a person who does not like plantains. And when it comes to waffles, plantains add a whole new level of deliciousness. The natural sweetness and starchy texture of plantains create a delectable base for the waffles. It’s like adding a burst of flavour to your breakfast or brunch.,
But it’s not just about the taste, choosing plantains for waffles also adds a nutritional boost to your meal. Plantains are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, and fibre. They are also a great source of energy, making them the perfect choice to start your day. By using plantains instead of flour, you are making a healthier choice without compromising on taste.
Tips for Making the Perfect Healthy Plantain Waffles
To ensure your plantain waffles turn out flawless every time, here are a few tips to bear in mind:
- Choose the right plantain: Look for a fully ripe plantain with black spots. This indicates that the plantain is sweet and will provide the best flavour for your savoury waffles.
- Mash thoroughly: Take your time to mash the plantain until it becomes creamy and lump-free. This will ensure a smooth batter and even cooking.
- Preheat the waffle iron: Preheating the waffle iron is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
- Paleo: If you’re following a paleo diet, you can substitute the plain flour with almond flour or coconut flour. This will give your waffles a nuttier taste and make them gluten-free.
- For Warm flavours: Feel free to sprinkle cinnamon on the batter—this infusion of warmth and spice pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the plantains.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Options
While these healthy plantain waffles are delightful, there are several ways to elevate the experience even further.
- Top the waffles with mashed avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt for a creamy and savoury twist.
- Drizzle a touch of maple syrup, pomegranate dressing or honey. over the waffles to enhance the natural sweetness of the plantains.
- Enjoy them with a side of fresh salad for a light and healthy meal.
- Pair the waffles with a tropical fruit salad to enhance the exotic flavours.
Remember, food has the power to bring people together, to create moments of pure bliss. And these healthy plantain waffles are the perfect embodiment of that power. So go on, embrace the joy of cooking, and indulge in the deliciousness that awaits.
FAQS ON HEALTHY PLANTAIN WAFFLES
Made the recipe?
If you make this recipe, please tag it @itslivhuwani on Instagram. I love seeing what you do with this recipe!
Healthy Plantain Waffles
Equipment
- Waffle maker
- Fork
- mixing bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 plantain ripe
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- 1 tsp coconut oil melted
- ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
- ½ lemon squeezed
Instructions
- Preheat the waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and golden colour.
- Using the back of a fork, mash the ripe plantain until smooth and creamy. Ensure that no big lumps are remaining.
- Add the plain flour to the mashed plantain and mix until well combined. The flour will give the waffles a light and airy texture.
- Pour in the melted coconut oil, grated fresh ginger, and the juice of half a lemon. These ingredients will add a delightful aroma and zing to the waffles.
- Mix all the ingredients until you have a smooth batter. The batter should be thick.
- Grease the waffle iron with a little coconut oil to prevent sticking. Pour the plantain batter onto the preheated waffle iron, spreading it evenly.
- Cook the waffles for approximately 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crisp. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your waffle iron, so keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Once ready, gently remove the waffles from the iron using a spatula. Place them on a plate and repeat the process if you have the remaining batter.
- Serve the savoury plantain waffles warm with slices of avocados, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, and drizzle pomegranate salad dressing.
