Plátanos en Gloria
A sweet and decadent dessert featuring ripe plantains simmered in a rich syrup made from piloncillo (unrefined whole cane sugar), cinnamon, and sometimes cloves. It's a popular sweet treat often served during holidays or special occasions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 large Ripe plantains(peeled and cut into 1-inch thick rounds)
- 200 g Piloncillo(or dark brown sugar)
- 1.5 cups Water
- 1 piece Cinnamon stick
- 2 whole Cloves(optional)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp Sesame seeds(toasted, for garnish (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a saucepan, combine piloncillo, water, cinnamon stick, and cloves (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring until the piloncillo is completely dissolved.
💡 Tip: Ensure all piloncillo is dissolved for a smooth syrup. - 2
Bring the syrup to a gentle simmer. Add the sliced plantains to the syrup, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
💡 Tip: Use a pan that fits the plantains snugly. - 3
Cover the saucepan and let the plantains simmer in the syrup for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and have absorbed some of the syrup's flavor.
⏱️ 25 minutes💡 Tip: Flip the plantains halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. - 4
Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves. Stir in the vanilla extract.
💡 Tip: Remove spices before serving. - 5
Serve the warm plantains drizzled with the syrup. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use very ripe plantains (black or mostly black skin) for the best sweetness and texture.
- ✓Piloncillo can be found in Latin American markets. If unavailable, dark brown sugar is a good substitute.
- ✓The syrup will thicken as it cools.
🔄 Variations
- Serve with a dollop of crema or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Add a splash of rum to the syrup for an adult twist.