Tajadas con Carne Molida
A popular Honduran dish featuring crispy fried green plantain slices (tajadas) topped with seasoned ground beef. It's a delightful combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 medium Green plantains
- Vegetable oil(for frying)
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 medium White onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 0.5 cup Water or beef broth
- 1 tsp Cumin
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(to taste)
- 1 cup Cabbage(shredded, for serving)
- Honduran crema or sour cream(for drizzling (optional))
- Hot sauce(for serving (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel the green plantains and slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) lengthwise or crosswise. You can use a mandoline for uniform slices.
- 2
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the plantain slices in batches until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. - 3
While the plantains are frying, prepare the meat. In a separate skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
⏱️ 4 minutes - 4
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
⏱️ 8 minutes - 5
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the water or beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 6
To serve, arrange the fried tajadas on a platter. Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture over the tajadas. Top with shredded cabbage and drizzle with Honduran crema or sour cream, if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use firm, green plantains for the best texture. Overripe plantains will be too soft and sweet.
- ✓Adjust the seasoning of the ground beef to your preference. Some like to add a pinch of oregano or paprika.
- ✓For a spicier kick, add some chopped chili peppers to the meat mixture.
🔄 Variations
- Some variations include adding diced bell peppers or corn to the meat mixture.
- Serve with a side of chimol (Honduran salsa) for added freshness.