Elevate your appetizer game with these Garlic Shrimp Plantain Cups, a delicious fusion of savory shrimp and sweet plantains. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a special snack. The crispy plantain cups hold a flavorful garlic shrimp filling, creating a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Let’s dive into this exciting recipe!
Ingredients
For the Plantain Cups:
- 3 large ripe plantains
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For the Garlic Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Plantain Cups:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the plantain slices and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the plantains from the skillet and place them in a muffin tin, pressing each slice into the cup to form a small bowl shape.
- Sprinkle with salt and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until the edges are crispy.
- Prepare the Garlic Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Squeeze lime juice over the shrimp and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Stir to combine.
- Assemble the Plantain Cups:
- Remove the plantain cups from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Fill each plantain cup with the garlic shrimp mixture.
- Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.
How to Prepare
The key to this dish is balancing the sweetness of the plantains with the savory garlic shrimp. Make sure to cook the plantains until they are golden and crispy to hold the filling well. The shrimp should be perfectly cooked, tender, and full of garlicky flavor. These plantain cups are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, making them a great appetizer for your next gathering.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: About 45 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes about 12 plantain cups, serving 4-6 people as an appetizer.
FAQs
- Can I use green plantains instead of ripe plantains? Green plantains are firmer and less sweet, so they will create a different flavor profile. For a sweet and savory balance, ripe plantains are recommended.
- Can I prepare the plantain cups ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the plantain cups in advance and reheat them in the oven before filling with the shrimp.
- What other fillings can I use for the plantain cups? Besides garlic shrimp, you can fill the plantain cups with guacamole, black beans, salsa, or even pulled chicken for a variety of flavors.
- Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe? Yes, if using pre-cooked shrimp, just sauté them briefly with garlic and butter to heat through and infuse with flavor.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic shrimp for an extra kick.