These African plaintain breakfast dishes are worth trying!
What's the story
Plantains are a staple in many African countries, providing a versatile and nutritious breakfast option. From savory to sweet, plantains are used in various dishes, reflecting the continent's diverse culinary traditions. Here are five popular African breakfast dishes featuring plantains, each offering a unique taste and experience. These dishes highlight the creativity and resourcefulness of African cuisine, making them a must-try for anyone interested in exploring new flavors.
Dish 1
Plantain porridge delight
Plantain porridge is a creamy, comforting dish made by cooking ripe plantains with water or milk until soft. The mixture is then blended to a smooth consistency and sweetened with sugar or honey. Often flavored with vanilla or cinnamon, this porridge is a popular breakfast choice for its simplicity and nutritional value. It's an excellent source of carbohydrates and vitamins, giving an energizing start to the day.
Dish 2
Fried plantain slices
Fried plantain slices are a common breakfast item across many African countries. Ripe plantains are sliced into rounds and fried until golden brown. These crispy slices can be enjoyed on their own or paired with other dishes like beans or avocado. The natural sweetness of the ripe plantains contrasts beautifully with savory accompaniments, making it a delightful morning meal.
Dish 3
Plantain fufu experience
Plantain fufu is a starchy staple food prepared by boiling green plantains until soft and then pounding them into a smooth, dough-like consistency. This versatile dish can be served with soups or stews for breakfast. Its neutral flavor makes it an ideal accompaniment to spicy or flavorful sides, making it a filling option for those looking for something hearty in the morning.
Dish 4
Sweet plantain pancakes
Sweet plantain pancakes are made from mashed ripe plantains mixed with flour, sugar, and spices before being cooked on a griddle. These pancakes have a natural sweetness from the fruit itself, eliminating the need for added sugars in most cases. They can be served plain or topped with syrup, honey, fresh fruit slices, nuts, and so on, giving you different ways to enjoy them at any time during the day.
Dish 5
Grilled plantain skewers
Grilled plantain skewers provide another delicious way to relish this versatile fruit at breakfast time. Cubes of both ripe and unripe varieties are threaded onto skewers, brushed lightly with oil, and grilled over open flames until tender inside and slightly charred outside. These skewers are often served alongside dipping sauces, adding flavor depth to each bite while maintaining the focus on the main ingredient itself.