Island Fried Plantains

Synonymous with island cooking, plantains, which resemble bananas, are available in most supermarkets. The skins of very ripe plantains are almost black, but are creamy white inside. Their mildly sweet flavor is accented by the lime juice, peanut butter, and spices which hint at a taste of the Islands. They are delicious served with chutney on the side.

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Makes about 24 pieces

What you need:

2 garlic cloves, pressed through a garlic press
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon allspice
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 medium-ripe plantains, peeled and grated
2 tablespoons olive oil

What you do:

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the garlic, peanut butter, lime juice, salt, oregano, allspice, cayenne, and pepper, and blend to a paste. Add the grated plantains and mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into small fritters, using about 1 tablespoon of the mixture for each.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the fritters in the hot oil and press down on them lightly with a metal spatula. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels, then transfer to a baking sheet and place in a warm oven until all the plantain bites are cooked. Serve hot.