Easy Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

The Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe is a traditional dish that holds a special place in Guatemalan cuisine. These delightful treats are made by combining mashed plantains with a sweet filling, typically made from refried black beans, chocolate, and spices. The mixture is shaped into small balls, then fried to perfection until golden brown.

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When you take a bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of flavors. The sweetness of the plantains pairs harmoniously with the rich and earthy taste of the black bean and chocolate filling. The spices add a subtle hint of warmth to the overall taste profile.

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One of the merits of this recipe lies in its versatility. Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even a breakfast dish. Its portable nature makes it a convenient treat for on-the-go indulgence or a delightful addition to any gathering or celebration.

In addition to its delicious flavors, this traditional dish also offers some potential health benefits. Plantains, the main ingredient, are a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. The black bean filling provides protein and essential minerals. Moreover, the absence of gluten in the recipe makes it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe is a delightful dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Guatemala. Its unique combination of flavors, versatility, and potential health benefits make it a worthy addition to any food lover’s repertoire. Whether you’re exploring Guatemalan cuisine or simply looking for a tasty treat, these Rellenitos de Platano are sure to please your taste buds while offering a hint of cultural experience.

How To Make Our the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

Ingredients (8 Servings

8 ripe plantains
1 cup of cooked black beans
1/4 cup of granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon of salt
4 ounces of dark chocolate, chopped
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Peel the plantains and cut them into chunks.

a. Use a small knife to carefully remove the plantain skins.
b. Slice the plantains into bite-sized pieces for easy mashing.
c. Ensure the plantain chunks are uniform in size for even cooking.
d. Keep the plantains intact while peeling to minimize waste.
e. Dispose of the plantain skins in a compost bin or trash receptacle.

2. Boil the plantain chunks until they are soft.

a. Place the plantain chunks gently into the boiling water.
b. Allow the plantains to simmer until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
c. Stir occasionally to prevent the plantains from sticking to the bottom.
d. Test the softness by pressing a piece between your fingers.
e. Be cautious when handling the hot water to avoid burns.

3. Drain the plantain chunks and let them cool.

a. Pour the boiling water out of the pot into a strainer or sink.
b. Shake the strainer gently to remove excess water from the plantain chunks.
c. Set the drained plantains aside and let them cool to room temperature.
d. Avoid touching the hot plantain chunks directly to prevent burns.
e. Place the pot in a safe location to cool before cleaning.

4. Mash the cooled plantain chunks until smooth.

a. Transfer the cooled plantain chunks into a large mixing bowl.
b. Use a fork to press down and break apart the plantain chunks.
c. Continue mashing until the plantains form a smooth and lump-free consistency.
d. Apply pressure evenly across the plantain chunks for optimal results.
e. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure all plantains are mashed evenly.

5. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked black beans, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

a. Add the cooked black beans to a medium-sized bowl.
b. Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the black beans.
c. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon, cloves, and salt over the mixture.
d. Use a spoon or fork to gently mix the ingredients together.
e. Make sure all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the black bean mixture.

Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed for the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

Large pot: Used for boiling the plantain chunks until soft.
Strainer or colander: Used for draining the cooked plantain chunks.
Mixing bowl: Used for mashing the cooled plantain chunks and combining ingredients.
Fork or potato masher: Used for mashing the plantains to a smooth consistency.
Medium-sized bowl: Used for combining the cooked black beans, sugar, spices, and salt.
Spoon or fork: Used for mixing the ingredients in the separate bowl.
Large skillet or frying pan: Used for frying the rellenitos until golden brown.

Best Way to Store Leftovers From the the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

a. Allow the Rellenitos to cool completely before storing them.
b. Place the leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
c. Store the Rellenitos in the refrigerator to keep them from spoiling.
d. Opt for a container with a tight seal to prevent air exposure.
e. Use individual containers to portion out the leftovers for convenience.
f. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
g. Consume the leftovers within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

a. Choose ripe plantains with yellow skins for easier peeling and mashing.
b. Use a potato masher for smoother and more efficient plantain mashing.
c. Add a little lemon juice to the mashed plantains to prevent browning.
d. Pre-measure the ingredients before starting to streamline the process.
e. Use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop for consistent-sized plantain balls.
f. Keep a bowl of water nearby to moisten hands while shaping the Rellenitos.
g. Fry the Rellenitos in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent overcrowding.

Side Dishes and Desserts For the the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad with a variety of tropical fruits.
Rice: Traditional Guatemalan rice and beans as a hearty side dish.
Plantains: Crispy fried plantain chips for a delightful contrast in texture.
Green Salad: A refreshing side of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette.
Pickled Vegetables: Guatemalan-style pickled vegetables for a zesty and tangy accompaniment.
Avocado: Creamy avocado slices for a creamy and smooth addition.
Salsa: Homemade salsa or Pico de Gallo for a spicy kick of flavor.

How To Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

a. Arrange the warm Rellenitos on a serving platter or individual plates.
b. Consider dusting the Rellenitos with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.
c. Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the Rellenitos for extra indulgence.
d. Garnish the plate with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
e. Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe the Rellenitos as a dessert or snack option at a gathering or celebration.
f. Accompany the Rellenitos with a hot cup of Guatemalan coffee for a perfect pairing.
g. Enjoy the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Plat

Substitutions For the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

1. Vegan Option:

a: Substitute dark chocolate with vegan dark chocolate made without dairy or animal products.
b: Replace granulated sugar with a vegan-friendly sweetener like maple syrup or agave syrup.
c: Use cooked lentils or chickpeas instead of black beans for a vegan protein source.
d: Choose a plant-based butter or coconut oil for frying the Rellenitos.
e: Swap ground cloves with ground nutmeg or allspice for a vegan-friendly spice option.
f: Select ripe plantains without blemishes or green spots for sweetness.
g: Consider adding shredded coconut or chopped nuts as a vegan-friendly topping.

2. Gluten-Free Options: For the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

a: Ensure all ingredients, including dark chocolate, are labeled gluten-free and certified.
b: Use gluten-free granulated sugar or natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or stevia.
c: Verify that the black beans used are gluten-free and processed in gluten-free facilities.
d: Replace regular all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for coating.
e: Confirm that spices like ground cinnamon and cloves are gluten-free and uncontaminated.
f: Opt for gluten-free cooking oil or spray for frying the Rellenitos.
g: Garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for a gluten-free and visually appealing touch.

3. Vegetarian Option:

a: Keep the listed ingredients as the recipe is already vegetarian-friendly.
b: Consider using organic or locally sourced ingredients for sustainability.
c: Use fair-trade certified dark chocolate for ethical and responsible sourcing.
d: Experiment with different varieties of black beans for added flavor and texture.
e: Customize spices to taste by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra cinnamon.
f: Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or powdered sugar for indulgence.
g: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with a side of fresh fruit or homemade fruit compote for a burst of flavor.

4. Mediterranean Diet Options: For the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

a: Choose dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage for health benefits.
b: Use a small amount of honey or date syrup instead of granulated sugar for natural sweetness.
c: Add ground cardamom or orange zest to the mashed plantains for extra flavor.
d: Incorporate chopped pistachios or almonds into the black bean mixture for healthy fats.
e: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the Rellenitos before serving for a Mediterranean touch.
f: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with Greek yogurt mixed with lemon zest for creaminess and tang.
g: Accompany with a Mediterranean-inspired salad like Greek salad with fresh vegetables and feta cheese.

5. Keto Diet Options:

a: Use sugar-free dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa nibs to reduce sugar content.
b: Replace granulated sugar with keto-friendly sweeteners like erythritol or stevia.
c: Substitute black beans with mashed cooked cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative.
d: Fry Rellenitos in coconut oil or avocado oil suitable for the keto diet.
e: Increase cinnamon and cloves for flavor without adding extra carbs.
f: Top with unsweetened whipped cream or coconut cream for a keto-friendly treat.
g: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with fresh berries or a sugar-free berry sauce to complement flavors while keeping carbs in check.

6. Heart-Healthy Diet Options: For the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

a: Opt for dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage for heart-healthy antioxidants.
b: Replace granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup or honey in moderation.
c: Choose low-sodium or no-salt-added black beans to reduce sodium intake.
d: Use heart-healthy oils such as olive oil or avocado oil for frying the Rellenitos.
e: Increase cinnamon for flavor without adding extra sodium.
f: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with a side of fresh fruit slices or a fruit salad for added fiber and vitamins.
g: Consider sprinkling ground flaxseeds or chia seeds over the Rellenitos for a boost of omega-3 fatty acids.

7. Paleo Options:

a: Use dairy-free and paleo-friendly dark chocolate or cacao nibs instead of regular dark chocolate.
b: Replace granulated sugar with paleo-friendly sweeteners like coconut sugar or pure maple syrup.
c: Substitute black beans with mashed cooked sweet potatoes or pumpkin for a paleo alternative.
d: Fry rellenitos in coconut oil or ghee, both suitable for the paleo diet.
e: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg for warmth and earthiness.
f: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with coconut whipped cream or coconut yogurt as a paleo-friendly topping.
g: Accompany with a side of fresh berries or a mixed green salad with a paleo-friendly dressing.

8. Low Carb Options: For the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

a: Use sugar-free dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder to reduce carbohydrate content.
b: Replace granulated sugar with low-carb sweeteners like monk fruit sweetener or stevia.
c: Substitute black beans with mashed cooked zucchini or cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.
d: Fry Rellenitos in avocado oil or ghee, both low in carbs and suitable for a low-carb diet.
e: Increase cinnamon and cloves for added flavor without extra carbs.
f: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with unsweetened whipped cream or sugar-free whipped topping.
g: Garnish with crushed nuts or seeds for added texture and healthy fats.

9. Whole30 Options:

a: Choose unsweetened dark chocolate that complies with the Whole30 guidelines.
b: Omit granulated sugar or use unsweetened applesauce as a natural sweetener.
c: Replace black beans with mashed cooked sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a Whole30-friendly alternative.
d: Fry Rellenitos in ghee or coconut oil, approved fats in the Whole30 program.
e: Customize spices like ground cinnamon to taste.
f: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with fresh berries or compliant fruit salad for added natural sweetness.
g: Drizzle almond butter or cashew butter over the Rellenitos as a delicious Whole30-friendly topping.

10. Weight Watchers Options: For the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

a: Choose dark chocolate with a cocoa percentage that aligns with your Weight Watchers plan.
b: Use a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or a sugar substitute to reduce SmartVPoints value.
c: Substitute black beans with mashed cooked pumpkin or acorn squash for a lower Smart Points alternative.
d: Fry Rellenitos using a non-stick cooking spray or minimal oil to reduce Smart Points value.
e: Decrease cloves or opt for milder spices to reduce fat content.
f: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with a side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt for a low Smart Points accompaniment.
g: Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar substitute or unsweetened cocoa powder for visual appeal without extra Smart Points.

11. Low Fat Options:

a: Choose dark chocolate with a lower cocoa percentage to reduce fat content.
b: Substitute granulated sugar with a sugar substitute or use a reduced amount of natural sweetener.
c: Use non-fat or low-fat plain yogurt instead of black beans for a lower-fat alternative.
d: Spray Rellenitos with a cooking spray and bake them in the oven to reduce fat.
e: Decrease cloves or opt for milder spices to reduce overall fat content.
f: Serve the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe with a side of fresh fruit or a fruit salsa for a low-fat and refreshing addition.
g: Consider using a fat-free whipped topping or fat-free Greek yogurt as a low-fat garnish.

12. Vegetable Variations: For the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

a: Fill plantain balls with mashed cooked carrots or pumpkin for a vibrant and sweet vegetable twist.
b: Incorporate cooked and mashed beets for a colorful and earthy flavor profile.
c: Use mashed cooked sweet potatoes instead of plantains for a variation on the traditional recipe.
d: Experiment with mashed cooked parsnips or butternut squash for unique taste and texture.
e: Try stuffing plantain balls with mashed cooked spinach or kale for a nutritious green addition.
f: Mix mashed cooked yams or acorn squash into the black bean filling for a subtly sweet alternative.
g: Blend mashed cooked cauliflower or broccoli into the black bean mixture for added vegetable goodness.

FAQ About the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe

What is the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe?
The Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe is a traditional dish made with mashed plantains stuffed with a sweet black bean filling, coated in cinnamon-sugar, and fried to perfection.

How do you make the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe?
To make the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe, you start by boiling and mashing ripe plantains. Then, you prepare a sweet black bean filling using black beans, sugar, and spices. The mashed plantains are flattened, filled with the black bean mixture, sealed, and shaped into balls. Finally, they are coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture and fried until golden brown.

What are the flavors of the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe like?
The Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors. The sweet mashed plantains provide a soft and slightly caramelized exterior, while the sweet black bean filling adds a rich and earthy taste. The cinnamon-sugar coating enhances the overall sweetness and adds a touch of warmth to each bite.

Can I make variations to the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe?
Absolutely! The Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe allows for variations and adaptations. You can experiment with different fillings, such as adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the black bean mixture. Additionally, you can try coating the Rellenitos with shredded coconut or drizzling them with chocolate sauce for a unique twist.

Are there any health benefits associated with the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe?
While the Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe is a delicious treat, it is important to enjoy it in moderation. Plantains offer nutrients like vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. However, the fried nature of the dish and the presence of sugar should be considered. To make it slightly healthier, you can try baking the Rellenitos instead of frying them and opt for natural sweeteners.

Final Thoughts

The Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano Recipe is a delightful dish made with mashed plantains filled with sweet black beans, coated in cinnamon-sugar, and fried until golden brown. The flavors of this recipe are a combination of sweet plantains, rich black bean filling, and a hint of warmth from the cinnamon. It offers versatility as you can customize the filling or explore various toppings.

While it’s important to enjoy in moderation due to its fried nature and sugar content, the dish provides nutrients from plantains and the option to make healthier adaptations by baking instead of frying and using natural sweeteners.