When Is a Plantain Ready?

Plantains are a type of banana used in many vegetable and fruit dishes.

The plantain, sometimes referred to as the cooking banana, is most commonly consumed in Asia, the Caribbean and Latin America. It contains more starch than a banana and is used as an ingredient in both vegetable and fruit dishes.

Stages of Ripeness

Plantains can be used during all stages of ripeness. Green plantains are often cooked in the same manner as potatoes, because they aren't sweet and have no banana flavor. Cut them in thin slices and fry or cut into chunks to use as a soup ingredient.

Yellow plantains are softer than green ones. They have a creamier texture and mild banana aroma. Boil or mash them to serve as a side dish. Black plantains are best used in dessert recipes because, at this stage, all of the starch contained within has turned to sugar.

Nutritional Significance

Plantains, at any stage of ripeness, have more nutritional value than bananas. This includes more vitamin A and C and more potassium and magnesium.

Preperation Considerations

When preparing green or yellow plantains, the peel usually needs to be cut away with a knife. Black plantains can be peeled like a banana.

References

• Speciality Produce: Plantain Bananas Very Ripe
• Produce Emporium: More About Plantains