Delicious Plantains with Aromatic Salsa De Ajo
Upon reading this recipe article, I welcome you to venture into the world of Puerto Rican cuisine. Today, we will be focusing on a dish that is enjoyed by many but often overlooked due to its simplicity: plantains with salsa de ajo.
As a home chef who loves to throw parties, I can tell you that this dish never disappoints. Whether served as an appetizer or side dish, the combination of the crispy fried plantains with the rich and tangy garlic sauce will leave your guests coming back for more. Plus, with its easy-to-follow instructions and minimal ingredient list, even someone new to cooking can whip up this delicious dish.
So join me and let’s embark on a tasty journey through the flavors of Puerto Rico.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Plantains with Salsa de Ajo Recipe is a dish that will get your taste buds dancing with joy. The combination of savory plantains and zesty garlic sauce will tantalize your senses and leave you craving for more. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and wants to try something new.
One of the reasons why I love this recipe is because it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer, side dish or even a main course. The crispy fried plantains are the perfect base for the creamy and flavorful garlic sauce that adds a punch of flavor to the dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to try something different, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s easy to make. You only need a few simple ingredients that are readily available at any grocery store. It takes less than an hour to prepare, so you don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen preparing this delicious dish. The step-by-step instructions provided in this recipe article will guide you through the process, ensuring that you achieve perfect results every time.
Lastly, this recipe offers plenty of opportunities to experiment with different variations and substitutions. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try adding fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to the garlic sauce to give it a unique twist. You can also use ripe plantains instead of green ones or swap out the garlic sauce for another type of dipping sauce. There are endless possibilities when it comes to customizing this delicious dish according to your taste preferences.
Overall, Plantains with Salsa de Ajo Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that will take your taste buds on a journey they won’t forget. With its bold flavors, ease of preparation, and endless customization options, this dish is definitely worth trying out. Trust me; once you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients needed for this delicious dish:
Main Ingredients
- 4 large green plantains
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
- Olive oil and vegetable oil for frying
For the Salsa de Ajo
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 tablespoon fresh marjoram, mint, or cilantro chopped
- Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
The combination of green plantains with the salsa de ajo creates an explosion of flavors in your mouth that you won’t be able to resist. Make sure to purchase fresh green plantains, as they are firmer and give a better consistency when fried. While preparing the salsa de ajo, feel free to swap out the mint for either marjoram or cilantro, depending on your preference. The addition of olive oil adds a buttery flavor that lightly coats each piece of plantain.
The Recipe How-To
If you are looking for a new and exciting appetizer for your next party, try making Plantains with Salsa de Ajo. This recipe is perfect for those who want a combination of sweet and savory flavors in one dish. The recipe is simple to make and will leave your guests wanting more. Here’s how to make Plantains with Salsa de Ajo:
Ingredient List
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 large green plantains
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh marjoram
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- Salt
- Fresh ground pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step One: Prepare the Plantains
Start by peeling the plantains and slicing them into 1/2 inch rounds. Season them with salt and pepper.
Step Two: Fry the Plantains
In a frying pan, heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the plantains in batches and fry until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step Three: Make the Salsa De Ajo
To make the salsa de ajo (garlic sauce), mince one garlic clove and place it in a small bowl. Then, add 1/4 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh marjoram, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint.
Step Four: Add Olive Oil
Gradually add 1/4 cup olive oil into the bowl while whisking until emulsified.
Step Five: Serve
Place fried plantains on a platter and serve with the salsa de ajo dipping sauce on the side.
Substitutions and Variations
If you can’t find green plantains at your local store, you can also use green bananas as a substitute. Additionally, you can vary the herbs used in the salsa de ajo by trying cilantro or parsley instead of mint or marjoram.
Serving and Pairing
Plantain chips or tostones fried in vegetable oil would pair specific type of dipping sauces like mojo de ajo, garlic mojito sauce or pink sauce con ajo. If you want something different than your classic fried snacks you may try mini-fried plantain cups filled with chicharron de pollo or camarones en salsa rosada or even mofongo. Another option is boiled yuca con mojo de ajo y cilantro.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Plantains are best served fresh but if needed they can be kept at room temperature in an air-tight container to maintain crunchiness. The salsa can also
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways you can put your own spin on this plantains with salsa de ajo recipe. Here are some suggestions:
– Instead of using green plantains, try using ripe yellow plantains for a sweeter taste.
– Swap out the salsa de ajo for a different dipping sauce like a garlic cilantro mayo or a spicy tomato salsa.
– Add diced onions or peppers to the plantain mixture before frying for an extra pop of flavor.
– If you don’t have dried Mexican oregano or fresh marjoram on hand, use dried Italian seasoning instead.
– Use vegetable oil instead of olive oil if you prefer a milder taste.
– For a lighter version, bake the plantains in the oven instead of frying them in oil.
Experimenting with different flavors and ingredients can lead to delicious results. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing the plantains with salsa de ajo, the possibilities are endless.
For starters, these delicious bites make for a great appetizer or snack at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or an intimate dinner party, you’ll likely find that your guests can’t get enough of the crispy texture and zesty flavors of the plantains.
To really elevate your plantain game, try serving them alongside other traditional Latin American dishes. Pile them high on a platter next to a heaping bowl of guacamole, some homemade salsa fresca, or even some savory chicharron de pollo.
If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, consider pairing the plantains with cooked meat or seafood. I highly recommend trying them alongside some juicy grilled beef skewers or some spicy camarones en salsa de ajo (garlic shrimp in garlic sauce). The combination of flavors and textures is truly out of this world.
Of course, for those looking to keep things more casual, there’s always the classic option of serving the plantains solo, perhaps with some additional dipping sauces or toppings. For example, you could whip up a batch of fresh cilantro-garlic dipping sauce to accompany the plantains, or even sprinkle them with some crumbled cotija cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
No matter how you choose to serve them, one thing is certain: these plantains with salsa de ajo are sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. So go ahead and experiment with different pairings and presentations until you find the one that’s perfect for your next event!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
We all know that some of the best parts of a party are the leftovers. With this recipe for Plantains with Salsa de Ajo, you’ll be happy to know that it is both make-ahead friendly and perfect for reheating later.
To make ahead, simply fry up your plantains and set them aside until just before the party. The salsa de ajo can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the plantains in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until crispy before serving with the garlic dipping sauce on the side.
For storing leftovers, it’s best to keep the fried plantains and garlic sauce separate to prevent soggy plantains. You can store them in separate containers and refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.
To reheat, simply place the plantains on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them quickly in a skillet over medium heat.
With these simple tips, you can enjoy your plantains with salsa de ajo long after your party is over.
Tips for Perfect Results
To get the most out of your Plantains with Salsa De Ajo Recipe, you want to pay attention to the following tips for perfect results.
1. Choose Ripe Plantains
Green plantains will work best for this recipe as they hold up better when frying. However, make sure they are not too green, or they will be tough and hard to peel. Look for yellow-skinned ones that give slightly when you press them.
2. Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature
Fry the plantains in enough vegetable oil so that they cook evenly and develop a golden brown color. Test the oil’s heat by dropping a small piece of plantain into it. If it sizzles and browns in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
3. Don’t Forget Salt and Fresh Lime Juice
Seasoning is essential for any recipe to taste good, including salsa de ajo, which relies on garlic, fresh herbs such as oregano, marjoram, and mint along with lime juice to create a tangy yet refreshing flavor profile. So don’t forget to add salt and lime juice to balance out the savory elements.
4. Mix Dried Oregano with Salsa De Ajo Sauce
For a more intense flavor, mix dried Mexican oregano with the prepared salsa de ajo sauce before serving it alongside fried plantains chips or mini-fried plantain cups.
5. Try Different Salsas
You can also experiment with different salsa variations depending on your mood or preference; consider making mojo sauce or pink sauce, which pair exceptionally well with fried green plantains.
6. Serve Freshly Cooked Plantains
Plantains are best enjoyed right after they’re fried, while still hot and crispy on the outside but creamy on the inside. If you need to keep them warm until serving time, keep them in an oven preheated to 200°F.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make perfect Plantains with Salsa De Ajo every time!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Plantains with Salsa De Ajo Recipe is an excellent addition to any menu, whether you are looking for a new appetizer or side dish. Its unique flavors and textures will elevate your dinner party or family meal in a way that simply can’t be matched by other recipes. The garlic sauce and plantains can both be modified to fit your taste buds, as well as paired with numerous sides and beverages.
So go ahead and try this recipe out at your next get-together or family dinner, because trust me – once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to party dishes. Your guests will surely appreciate the level of care and attention you put into every detail of your menu. Such superbly flavored and well-presented cuisine will strengthen the bond of love at your gathering rather than becoming mere food.
Plantains With Salsa De Ajo Recipe
Ingredients
Plantains
- 4 large green plantains
- 2 teaspoons salt
Sauce
- mint
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh marjoram
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Instructions
- Peel by cutting off ends of plantains and then cutting in half crosswise. Cut away peel with sharp knife. Trim off any remaining peel. Then cut half lenghtwise.
- Put in pot with salt and enough water to cover. Simmer 25 minutes or until you can easily pierce with fork and have texture of boiled potatoes.
- DRAIN CAREFULLY. Platains are now fragile. Place on serving dishs and pass the salt, pepper and sauce at the table.
- Sauce:
- Mint: Use the leaves from one small bunch.
- Garlic: Mince and crush to paste.
- Finely chop mint and oregano [or marjoram] and combine with rest of ingredients.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!