Discover the hidden benefits of grilled plantains

Bananas and their nutritional properties don’t need an introduction. People eat many of them, sometimes trusting too much in their universal power of being “good food.” Today, we leave these popular fruits aside to introduce you to their lesser-known cousin. What is plantain, where does it come from, and why is it worth eating? We answer all these questions below.

There are nine species of plane trees worldwide. These large trees have decorative, spreading leaves reminiscent of maples. These plants give us plantains, which are botanically fruits but are considered vegetables for their culinary use. "Vegetable bananas" are mainly harvested in North America and Asia, primarily in Laos and Vietnam.

Unlike bananas, plantains have distinctly green skin (mature ones turn more yellow or even red) and are somewhat larger. They contain large amounts of starch, so many people compare them to potatoes in terms of nutritional properties and taste. It is worth noting that plantains are often considered even healthier than bananas. They are a rich source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, A, and B. This makes consuming plantains beneficial for:

• lowering blood pressure and blood sugar levels,
• regulating metabolism,
• increasing feelings of fullness,
• strengthening bones,
• positively affecting the intestinal mucosa,
• supporting skin conditions, including combating acne.

We mentioned that plantains are considered vegetables in culinary terms. This is true, and these delicacies from North America often become an indispensable element of... grilling. Although they can certainly be eaten raw (like bananas), they are especially valued as an addition to heavy, grilled meats. The preparation method is straightforward: just peel them, cut them into smaller pieces, and sprinkle them with your favorite spices. Then, keep plantains on the grill for about 15 minutes, and they’re ready!