Baked Tequila Chili-Lime Sweet Plantains Recipe
Introduction
These baked tequila chili-lime sweet plantains are a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they bring a vibrant twist to ripe plantains with a subtle kick of tequila and chili powder.
Ingredients
- 4 very ripe plantains, diagonally sliced
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled
- 2 small limes, zested and juiced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tequila (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Flaked sea salt to taste (such as Maldon)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, lime zest, lime juice, tequila, and chili powder. Add the plantain slices and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
- Step 3: Arrange the coated plantain slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4: Roast them in the oven until the bottoms turn lightly golden, about 15 minutes. Then carefully turn each slice over and continue roasting until they are soft and cooked through, about 15 minutes more. Depending on your oven, cooking time may vary.
- Step 5: For extra caramelization, increase the oven temperature to broil and broil the plantains for 1 to 2 minutes until deeply golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with flaked sea salt, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use very ripe plantains for the best sweetness and texture.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the tequila or chili powder.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- For a vegan option, ensure the tequila is vegan-friendly and skip if unsure.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the plantains soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I skip the tequila and still get good flavor?
Yes, the tequila adds a subtle depth but is entirely optional. The lime, chili powder, and coconut oil provide plenty of flavor on their own.
What if my plantains aren’t very ripe?
Less ripe plantains will be firmer and less sweet. They can still be baked but may require longer cooking and won’t caramelize as much.
PrintBaked Tequila Chili-Lime Sweet Plantains Recipe
These Baked Tequila Chili-Lime Sweet Plantains combine the natural sweetness of ripe plantains with a zesty lime and tequila marinade, enhanced by a touch of chili powder. Baked to golden perfection, this flavorful side dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes, making it an irresistible snack or accompaniment to your favorite meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Plantains
- 4 very ripe plantains, diagonally sliced
Marinade
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled
- 2 small limes, zested and juiced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tequila (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
To Finish
- Flaked sea salt to taste (I like Maldon)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, lime zest, lime juice, tequila, and chili powder. Mix well to create a flavorful coating for the plantains.
- Coat Plantains: Add the diagonally sliced plantains to the bowl and gently toss them to ensure each slice is evenly coated with the marinade mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated plantain slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to promote even roasting.
- Roast First Side: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast until the plantains are lightly golden on the bottom, about 15 minutes.
- Flip and Continue Roasting: Carefully turn the slices over and continue roasting until they are evenly cooked, soft, and golden on both sides, approximately 15 minutes more. Depending on your oven, they might need a little longer to cook through.
- Optional Broiling: If you desire a more caramelized finish, increase the oven temperature to broil and broil the plantains for 1 to 2 minutes until deeply golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Season and Serve: Sprinkle the baked plantains with flaked sea salt to taste and serve immediately while warm and delicious.
Notes
- Use very ripe plantains for the best sweetness and texture.
- If you prefer to omit alcohol, leave out the tequila; the plantains will still be flavorful.
- Adjust chili powder amount based on your preferred spice level.
- Watch the plantains closely during broiling to avoid burning.
- Serve as a snack, side dish, or appetizer paired with grilled meats or salads.
Keywords: baked plantains, tequila plantains, chili lime plantains, sweet plantains, Latin American side dish, roasted plantains, healthy plantain recipe
