Have you ever heard of candy made from platano maduro? If not, you’re in for a sweet treat! Platano maduro, or ripe plantains, is a delicious fruit that can be transformed into a mouthwatering candy. This recipe is easy to follow and will have your taste buds dancing. So grab your apron, and let’s get started!
What is Platano Maduro?
Platano maduro is the sweet, ripe version of plantains. Unlike bananas, they are starchier and need to be cooked before eating. When they ripen, they turn yellow and develop a naturally sweet flavor. This sweetness makes them perfect for desserts and candies. Think of them as the friendly cousins of bananas, just a little different in taste and texture.
Ingredients
To make this delightful candy, you won’t need a long shopping list. Here’s what you need:
- Ripe platano maduro
- Sugar
- Water
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step to Making Platano Maduro Candy
First, start by peeling the ripe platano maduro. This might be a bit tricky, but just use a knife to cut the ends and slide the knife along the skin to remove it. Once it’s peeled, cut the plantain into small, bite-sized pieces. You can cut them into rounds or long slices—whatever you prefer!
Next, place the cut pieces into a pot. Add enough water to cover the plantains. Then, bring the water to a boil. This step helps soften the plantains, making them easier to cook later.
Once the water is boiling, let it cook for about five to ten minutes. You want the plantains to be soft, but not mushy. Think of it like making mashed potatoes—you want them soft enough to work with, but still holding their shape!
Now, drain the water and return the plantains to the pot. This is where the magic happens! Add sugar to the pot, and sprinkle a pinch of salt. The salt will enhance the sweetness of the sugar. Stir everything together until the sugar coats the plantains nicely.
Next, turn the heat to medium-low and cook the mixture. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You want the sugar to melt and create a syrupy coating over the plantains. This process can take about 15 to 20 minutes. Just keep an eye on it, and stir it gently.
Once the sugar has melted and thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes. Be careful! It will be hot, and you don’t want to burn your fingers while trying to sneak a taste!
Now comes the fun part—shaping your candy! You can use a spoon to scoop out small portions of the plantains and place them on a plate lined with parchment paper. Let them cool completely. As they cool, they will firm up and become candy-like!
Once your platano maduro candy is cool and firm, you can enjoy it! These little bites are sweet, chewy, and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This platano maduro candy recipe is fantastic for a few reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple and requires minimal ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to use ripe plantains before they go bad. It’s like rescuing a fruit from a sad fate! You’ll also love how versatile it is. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking and even experiment with different spices if you want to spice things up.
FAQs
Can I use green plantains?
No, use ripe platano maduro for sweetness.
How long do they last?
They can last about a week if stored properly.
Can I add spices?
Yes! Cinnamon or nutmeg can be great.
Are they healthy?
They are a sweet treat, so enjoy in moderation.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly.