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