By Yemisi Suleiman

With plantain in season, now is the perfect time to indulge in the delicious plantain delights you love, or discover exciting new recipes you’ve never tried before.

Whether it is fried, boiled, roasted or turned into something more creative, this versatile delight can easily transform an everyday meal into something special. Beyond the familiar fried and roasted plantain, there are exciting ways to enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, dinner or even as a snack.
If you are looking to try something different with the plantains in your kitchen, here are two delicious recipes worth adding to your menu.

1. Plantain Moi Moi

A delicious twist on the traditional bean-based moi moi, plantain moi moi is soft, savoury and naturally sweet. It makes a lovely breakfast option or side dish and can be prepared with ripe plantains for a richer flavour.

Preparation: 15 minutes · Cooking: 30–40 minutes

Ingredients
2 ripe plantains
1 small onion
1 red bell pepper
1–2 fresh peppers, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 egg (optional)
1 seasoning cube, optional
Salt to taste
A little water

• Method
  Peel and cut the plantains into chunks.
  Blend the plantains with the onion, bell pepper, fresh pepper and a little water until smooth.
• Add the vegetable oil, egg if using, seasoning and salt. Mix thoroughly.
• Pour the mixture into greased heatproof bowls or moi moi containers.
• Place the containers in a pot with a little hot water, cover and steam for 30–40 minutes, checking that the water does not dry out.
  Insert a skewer or knife into the centre. If it comes out clean and the mixture is set, it is ready to serve.

Serving suggestion: Enjoy warm with pap, custard or a cup of tea. You can also add flaked fish or cooked minced meat for extra flavour.

2. Stuffed Plantain Boats

If you enjoy plantain with a hearty filling, stuffed plantain boats are a fun and satisfying option. The sweetness of ripe plantain pairs beautifully with spicy minced beef, vegetables and melted cheese, making this dish suitable for lunch, dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients
3 ripe but firm plantains
250g minced beef or shredded cooked chicken
1 small onion, chopped
1 tomato, chopped
1 small bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
½ teaspoon curry powder
½ teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated cheese (optional)

Method

• Preheat your oven to 200°C. Peel the plantains and slice each lengthwise, leaving them whole.
  Brush lightly with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and lightly golden. You can also fry them gently until cooked through.
• Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a pan. Add the onion and minced beef, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
• Add the tomato, bell pepper, curry powder, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully done and the filling is not watery.
• Carefully make a shallow hollow along the centre of each plantain and spoon in the filling.
• Sprinkle with cheese, if desired, and return to the oven for another 5–8 minutes until heated through and the cheese melts.

Serving suggestion:
Serve with a fresh vegetable salad or coleslaw for a colourful, balanced meal.