Green Plantain Porridge

Exploring the Origins of Green Plantain Porridge: A Nutritious Caribbean Delight

---

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25-30 minutes | Total Time: 40-45 minutes | Servings: 4-6 servings

Green Plantain Porridge is a beloved Caribbean dish that has its roots in the vibrant culinary traditions of the region. This creamy and nutritious porridge is made from green plantains, a staple ingredient in Caribbean cuisine. Join us on a journey to discover the origins of Green Plantain Porridge and learn how to make this delicious and satisfying breakfast treat.

The Origins of Green Plantain Porridge: Green Plantain Porridge has its origins in the rich culinary heritage of the Caribbean islands. Plantains, which are a close relative of bananas, have been cultivated in the region for centuries. They were introduced to the Caribbean during the era of European colonization and quickly became an essential part of the local diet.

Plantains are highly versatile and are used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. Green Plantain Porridge emerged as a popular breakfast dish, particularly in countries like Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados. It combines the abundance of plantains with other ingredients like coconut milk, spices, and sweeteners to create a nourishing and comforting porridge.

Ingredients:

• 2 or 3 large green plantains

• 3 cups of water

• 1 cup of coconut milk

• 1 cup of Carnation milk

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1/4 teaspoon of grated nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon of star anise seeds

• ½ cup of organic cane sugar

• ½ cup of brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon of pink salt

• Optional toppings: orange zest or nutmeg, toasted coconut flakes, sliced bananas, or ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Peel and slice the green plantains into rounds or chunks.

2. In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the sliced plantains and reduce the heat to medium. Simmer until the plantains are tender, usually around 10-15 minutes.

3. Remove the plantains from the water and transfer them to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

4. In the same saucepan, combine the blended plantains, coconut milk, Carnation milk, cinnamon stick, grated nutmeg, ground cinnamon, organic cane sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, star anise seeds and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.

5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the porridge thickens to your desired consistency.

6. Taste the porridge and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.

7. Remove the cinnamon stick from the porridge and discard it.

8. Serve the Green Plantain Porridge warm in bowls. You can top it with orange zest, a sprinkle of nutmeg, toasted coconut flakes, sliced bananas, or a dash of ground cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.

Enjoy the creamy and comforting flavors of Green Plantain Porridge, enriched with the addition of Carnation milk and the sweetness of organic cane sugar and brown sugar. Customizing the toppings and sweetness allows you to create a personalized bowl of this delightful Caribbean breakfast dish.