Pastelon de Platano Maduro

Pastelon de Platano Maduro is my all time favorite meal. It's easy to put together and a great alternative for feedings large crowds (my kids). Growing up I don't remember my mother making Pastelon as much but once I grew older and began embracing my Dominican roots I discovered a dish that has now become a staple dish in my home.

Pastelon is made differently throughout Caribbean countries. In the Dominican Republic, the recipe calls for mashed ripen plantains whereas in Puerto Rico the plantains are deep-fried. No matter which way you decide to make pastelon I can bet you you'll love the dish.

Here I share with you my quick and easy Pastelon de Platano madero recipe. Let's make Pastelon.

Recipe/Receta

• 6 plátanos maduros

• 2 cucharadas de aceite de oliva

• 1/4 taza de cebollas rojas

• 1/4 taza de pimientos verdes

• 1/4 de pimiento morrón rojo

• 1/4 taza de alcaparras y aceitunas

• 2 dientes de ajo rallados

• 1 cucharada de sazón con achiote

• 1 libra de carne molida

• 16 oz de tomates

• 2 cucharadas de mantequilla

• sal

• Pimienta negra

• 2 tazas de queso mozzarella

• 1 taza de queso cheddar

English:

• 6 ripe plantains

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1/4 cup red onions

• 1/4 cup green bell peppers

• 1/4 red bell peppers

• 1/4 cup capers and olives

• 2 grated garlic cloves

• 1 tbsp sazon with anchiote

• 1 lbs ground beef

• 16 oz tomatoes

• 2 tbsp butter

• salt

• Black pepper

• 2 cups Mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup cheddar cheese

Direction:

1. To a pot with boiling water add peeled ripen plantains and salt. Boil plantains until soft, about 10-15 mins. Drain water and set aside

2. In a hot pot with oil add onions, garlic, bell peppers, capers, Sazon with anchiote, mix and add ground beef. Cook ground beef until brown then add tomato sauce. season with salt and black pepper

3. Begin to mash the boiled ripen plantains, add butter

4. Preheat oven to 350F

5. Spray baking dish with non-stick spray

6. Layer the pastelon using half of your plantain mix as your base, (use a flat spatula to create a flat and even surface) then add your meat mixture, cheese, and lastly half of the plantain mix. Again flatten the surface using a spatula. Finish the pastelon with a layer of cheese

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is brown and bubbly. Enjoy.

Watch me make it: