Issue 012: Don’t Go Bananas

Hey Q-Crew!

Nothing says tropical fruit to me like plantains and I really feel like they don’t get the shine they deserve! They’re more nutrient dense than bananas in potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C AND They’re high fiber. This week’s recipes: Puerto Rican Breakfast Piononos and Protein and Protein Packed Plantain Baked Oatmeal!

Last month’s theme was Wake & Bake! No it’s not about 4/20 (though I don’t judge). We’re making oven baked breakfasts. Whether you’re cooking for you or the whole family, every issue I’m showing you how to make something hearty to warm up the soul! This month’s theme will be “WHAT kinda patty???”

Puerto Rican Breakfast Piononos

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 40 minutes

Servings: 3

Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe plantains
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 tbsp half & half
  • 2 tsp black pepper
  • 8 slices thick cut bacon chopped
  • 1/2 yellow onion diced
  • 1 scallion sliced
  • 1 plum tomato diced
  • 4 cloved garlic minced
  • 4 oz shredded cheese of choice

    Step 1: Mix the eggs with the half & half and slice the plantains in quarters lengthwise.

    Step 2: Fry the plantains roughly 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat until lightly browned.

    Step 3: Fry the bacon pieces over medium high heat until rendered but not yet starting to brown.

    Step 4: Add the onions and scallions and stir. Saute until fragrant and beginning to soften.

    Step 5: Add the garlic, tomato, and black pepper and stir.

    Step 6: Cook down until the bacon is brown and the veggies are soft. Drain off the excess grease.

    Step 7: in a muffin tin, use the slices of plantain to line the wells. Note: This is easier in a regular muffin tin instead of a jumbo one like I used.

    Step 8: Pour in just enough of the egg to cover the bottom of the well.

    Step 9: Add the bacon mixture.

    Step 10: Add a bit of shredded cheese.

    Step 11: Add more bacon mixture.

    Step 12: Cover with egg to almost fill the well.

    Step 13: Top with more cheese.

    Step 14: Bake at 375° for 15 minutes.

    Step 15: Let sit for 5-10 minutes to set.

    Step 16: Serve and enjoy!

    Protein and Fiber Packed Plantain Baked Oatmeal

    Prep time: 15 minutes

    Cook time: 25-30 minutes

    Servings: 5-6

    Ingredients:

    • 1 overripe plantain
    • 2 cups milk of choice
    • 1/4 cup honey
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 3 cups old-fashioned oats
    • 1/2 tsp baking powder
    • 2 tsp cinnamon
    • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
    • 1/2 tsp cardamom
    • 1/4 tsp salt
    • 5 oz whole milk greek yogurt
    • 1 egg white

    Step 1: Mash the plantain thoroughly.

    Step 2: Add the milk, honey, vanilla extract, egg white, and yogurt and mix together until smooth.

    Step 3: Stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt until well combined.

    Step 4: Put into a greased oven safe baking dish.

    Step 5: Bake uncovered at 350° for 30 minutes.

    Step 6: Let rest for 5 minutes to set.

    Step 7: Serve warm!

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