Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with our Garlic Shrimp Plantain Cups recipe! This dish combines the sweetness of ripe plantains with the savory goodness of garlic shrimp, creating a perfect balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Ideal for gatherings, special occasions, or a unique family dinner, this recipe is not only delicious but also a visual treat. The cups are easy to make, and the filling can be prepared in just minutes, making this dish a great option for busy weeknights or impromptu parties. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe plantains, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the plantain slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the plantain slices in a muffin tin, using two slices per cup, to form a cup shape.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the plantains are golden and slightly crispy.
- While the plantains bake, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and chili flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and cilantro.
How to Prepare
To assemble the cups, carefully remove the baked plantain cups from the muffin tin. Fill each cup with the garlic shrimp mixture. The sweetness of the plantains paired with the zestiness of the lime and the bold flavors of garlic and cilantro makes for an irresistible combination.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for small gatherings or a family meal.
FAQs
- Can I use green plantains?
It’s best to use ripe plantains for this recipe as they are sweeter and softer, which complements the savory shrimp. - How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the shrimp with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a vegetarian version. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the plantain cups a day ahead and reheat them in the oven before filling with the shrimp mixture. - Is there a substitute for cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use parsley or scallions for a different flavor profile. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, add more chili flakes to the shrimp mixture or serve with a side of hot sauce for an extra kick.