Plantain Tortillas /Tortillas de Platanos

Imagine the tantalizing taste of perfectly cooked plantain tortillas, or as we like to call them, tortillas de platano. Originating from the vibrant landscapes of Puerto Rico, this recipe elevates the humble plantain to a culinary delight that is hard to resist. With a soft texture on the inside and a crispy edge, these plantain tortillas are an absolute revelation to the taste buds and offer a wonderful spin to traditional tortilla wraps.

The best part? You only need three ingredients to whip up these tropical treasures: ripe plantains, coconut oil, and flour. Not to mention, the process is astonishingly easy, making it a great initiative for beginners in the kitchen or for those who simply want a quick and delicious meal option.

What truly distinguishes plantain tortillas from their traditional counterparts is their unique flavor and noteworthy health benefits. Unlike regular tortillas, which are usually made from corn or wheat, plantain tortillas offer a natural sweetness and a tropical twist that can elevate any meal.

Nutritionally, plantains are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health, respectively. They also provide a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.

Plantains are also naturally gluten-free, making these tortillas an excellent option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. The use of coconut oil in the preparation adds healthy fats that contribute to better heart health and can help reduce inflammation. All these factors combined make plantain tortillas not only delicious but also a nutritious alternative to regular tortillas.

These Tortillas de Platanos are incredibly versatile, making them the perfect companion for a variety of dishes. Their rich, unique flavor pairs excellently with robust Beef Barbacoa or savory Pork Carnitas. Alternatively, they are equally delectable when teamed with a spiced vegetable stir-fry or as the base of a cheesy quesadilla. The possibilities are as endless as they are delicious.

Plantain Tortillas Ingredients

Discover the magic of these key ingredients in our Tortillas de Platanos (Plantain Tortillas) recipe:

• Plantains – These are the stars of the show in our Tortillas de Platanos (Plantain Tortillas). These bring a unique flavor profile to regular tortillas, offering a sweet but starchy undertone that complements a variety of fillings.
• Flour – This is used to help bind the plantain and coconut oil together to form our tortilla dough. It also aids in the elasticity of the dough, ensuring your tortillas aren't too crumbly but have a nice, chewy texture.
• Coconut Oil – This is used to lubricate the dough during processing, and also to lightly oil the pan during cooking. It lends a slight sweetness to the tortillas and aids in achieving a golden-brown, crispy exterior.

How to Make Tortillas de Platanos (Plantain Tortillas)

Now that you have your ingredients at hand, let's dive into the process of making Tortillas de Platanos. This culinary delight is estimated to be ready in about 35 minutes, with a prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes. Here's what you'll need to do:

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil with the plantains. After it starts boiling, you can let it continue for around 15 minutes.
2. Once the plantains have been boiled, you will need to safely remove them from the water and allow them to cool.
   
3. Using a food processor, add half of the boiled plantains, 1/8 cup + 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Let the food processor run for about a minute or until an elastic dough is formed. If the dough doesn't form at this point, you may need to add an extra tablespoon of flour and keep processing.
4. Now that you have your dough, take small golf ball-sized pieces and work them into flat discs on a well-oiled surface.
5. Oil a rolling pin and use it to create smooth, round tortillas. Aim for tortillas that are a bit larger in diameter than your bowl.
6. Press the bowl into the dough, remove the cut edges, and gently peel the tortilla off the surface. It might be helpful to use wax or parchment paper to store the formed tortillas.
7. Once all the tortillas are formed, you can cook them in a very lightly oiled pan for about 2 minutes on each side. A cast-iron pan would work ideally for this.
8. Finally, stack the cooked tortillas on a large cloth napkin, folding the napkin to cover each one after it is added.

Remember that getting the dough to the right consistency can be a bit tricky, but adding a bit more flour and processing some more can rectify this. Do ensure to use a generous amount of oil on every surface, including your hands, as the dough can be sticky.

With these steps, you are well on your way to enjoying homemade Tortillas de Platanos!

Frequent Asked Questions

How do I know when the plantains are done?

When boiling plantains, you can tell they are done when they become slightly tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Generally, this takes about 15 minutes, but the exact time can vary depending on the size and ripeness of the plantains.

A quick tip to ensure they're perfectly boiled is to check their color—they should turn golden yellow and develop a softer texture around the edges. If you're unsure, it's better to err on the side of slightly undercooked, as they will cook further during the tortilla-making process.

What can I use if I don't have coconut oil?

If you don't have coconut oil on hand, there are several alternatives you can use to make plantain tortillas. Olive oil is one such substitute and is readily available in most kitchens. It provides a rich flavor but might lack the subtle sweetness that coconut oil imparts. Another option is avocado oil, which has a high smoke point and is a healthy choice, though it has a more neutral taste compared to coconut oil.

Butter can also be used; however, it significantly alters the taste and may introduce a dairy element not present in the original recipe, potentially making it unsuitable for those avoiding lactose. Each of these substitutes will work to create the tortillas, but they may slightly change the overall flavor profile from the sweetness and mild tropical notes that coconut oil brings to the dish. Experiments with different oils can yield interesting and tasty variations, but coconut oil remains the best choice for the most authentic flavor.

Can I store these plantain tortillas for later?

Yes, you can store the uncooked tortillas de platanos (plantain tortillas) for later. After forming the tortillas, you can stack them with wax or parchment paper between each tortilla to prevent them from sticking together. Store them in a sealed container or a zip-lock bag in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze plantain tortillas?

Yes, you can freeze the plantain tortillas. After forming the tortillas, stack them with wax or parchment paper and put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, let them thaw in the refrigerator and then cook them for about 2 minutes on each side in a very lightly oiled pan.

Conclusion

Making Tortillas de Platanos (Plantain Tortillas) is a delightful culinary adventure that introduces a unique twist to your regular tortilla recipes. The combination of plantains and coconut oil brings a luscious flavor and texture, making these tortillas an excellent base for a variety of fillings. Whether you use them for tacos or wraps or simply enjoy them on their own, these tortillas are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't worry if your first batch isn't flawless. Enjoy the process and the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen. We encourage you to print the recipe card below for easy reference. If you loved making these tortillas, please share your creations on social media and tag us – we'd love to see your delicious results!

Feel free to download, print, or share the recipe card to keep this fabulous recipe handy. And don't forget to share it with your friends and family! Happy cooking!