There’s a certain joy that comes with the smell of ripe plantains gently cooking in the morning sun. As I embraced the simplicity of a busy morning routine, I was thrilled to discover this delicious recipe: a quick and healthy plantain breakfast topped with runny eggs. This dish is not only a delightful marriage of flavors but also comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their breakfast game.
Imagine the sweet and starchy goodness of plantains, sautéed in coconut oil and perfectly complimented by a luscious sunny-side-up egg. With its wholesome ingredients, this meal is gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian-friendly, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy it. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone seeking an exciting alternative to fast food, this plantain breakfast will inspire a nourishing start to your day. Let’s dive into this satisfying—and oh-so-easy—recipe!
Why is Plantain Breakfast a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes, perfect for busy mornings when you need a nourishing meal without the fuss.
Nutrient-Packed: Filled with vitamins and healthy fats, each bite supports your energy needs throughout the day.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its delightful flavors, everyone—kids and adults alike—will be asking for seconds!
Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings, whether it’s a sprinkle of seeds, a dash of spices, or a splash of hot sauce.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal clean-up is needed, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of countless dishes.
Elevate your breakfast routine with this impressive yet straightforward dish that retains all the satisfying qualities we love!
Delicious Plantain Breakfast Ingredients
For the Plantain Base
• Plantain – Look for ripe ones with blackened skin for optimal sweetness; the star of your plantain breakfast!
• Coconut Oil – Provides healthy fats and a subtle flavor boost; can substitute with olive oil or avocado oil.
For the Egg Topping
• Eggs – Adds protein and richness to the dish; feel free to use vegan egg alternatives for a plant-based option.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the overall flavor of your dish.
For Optional Toppings
• Sunflower Kernels – Adds a delightful crunch and nutrition; substitute with any other favorite seeds or nuts.
• Hemp Seeds or Nuts – Optional for extra protein and textured goodness; can replace with almonds or walnuts if desired.
Dive into this delicious plantain breakfast and discover how easily it can enrich your morning routine!
How to Make Plantain Breakfast
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Microwave the Plantain: Wrap the unpeeled plantain in a damp paper towel and microwave it for about 3 minutes until it’s tender. This quick step will soften the plantain, making it easy to work with.
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Heat the Oil: While the plantain is microwaving, place a small frying pan over medium heat. Add coconut oil, letting it melt and become fragrant, which will give your dish a delicious flavor.
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Cook the Egg: Crack the egg into the heated pan. Season with salt and black pepper, cooking until the egg white is firm and the yolk remains runny, approximately 2-3 minutes for that perfect sunny-side-up look.
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Prepare the Plantain: After microwaving, carefully remove the plantain, unwrap it, and peel off the skin. Place it on a plate, coat the inside with a little coconut oil, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra touch.
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Assemble and Serve: Top the plantain with the cooked egg. Add any optional seeds or nuts for added crunch and nutrition. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful plantain breakfast!
Optional: Drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Plantain Breakfast?
A delightful breakfast experience is just a few pairings away from being complete!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy, vibrant fruits complement the starchy plantains, balancing flavors while delivering a refreshing burst. The sweetness of berries or citrus will lift your spirits!
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spreads add richness and healthy fats, creating a satisfying combo alongside the plantain base. Top with a sprinkle of chili flakes for added zest.
- Green Smoothie: A refreshing blend of leafy greens, banana, and nut milk provides an energizing drink that completes your morning feast. The smoothie will also enhance your overall nutrient intake!
- Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and fruits for a contrasting texture, adding creaminess and crunch. It’s a delightful alternative to traditional dairy options.
- Herbal Tea or Coffee: Warm beverages like chamomile or a robust cup of coffee harmonize with the meal, offering cozy comfort as you savor each bite.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: For a hint of sweetness, drizzle pure maple syrup over the dish. It adds an inviting flavor contrast that pairs beautifully with the plantains.
Indulge in these lovely pairings that enhance the fulfilling experience of your nourishing plantain breakfast!
How to Store and Freeze Plantain Breakfast
Fridge: Keep leftover plantain and egg components stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave until warm, ensuring not to overcook the egg.
Freezer: Freeze fully cooked plantains separately from the eggs for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy your delicious plantain breakfast, reheat in a microwave or on the stove. For eggs, a gentle reheat will keep them from becoming rubbery.
Prep Ahead: Prepare plantain and eggs in advance for busy mornings; store in the fridge, and warm as needed for a quick breakfast!
Plantain Breakfast Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your personal twist on this delightful dish!
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Vegan Option: Swap eggs for scrambled tofu mixed with turmeric for a vibrant, plant-based start to your day. It adds a hearty texture while keeping things nutritious.
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Nutty Delight: Stir in almond or peanut butter directly to the microwaved plantain for a creamy, protein-packed variation that’s sure to please any nut lover.
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Mediterranean Flair: Top with crumbled feta cheese and a few olives for a savory twist that transports your taste buds to sunny shores.
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Spiced Up: For a kick of heat, sprinkle fresh chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce over the egg. It gives a wonderful contrast to the sweet plantain.
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Sweet Treat: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the dish, accompanied by a sprinkle of cinnamon, for a sweet morning indulgence.
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Fruit Topping: Add slices of fresh avocado or a handful of juicy cherry tomatoes on top, bringing a crisp, fresh flavor to the table.
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Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an aromatic lift that adds brightness to every bite.
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Crunch Factor: Replace sunflower kernels with roasted chickpeas for a crunchy texture that also adds a satisfying protein punch.
Expert Tips for Plantain Breakfast
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Choose Ripe Plantains: Look for plantains that are mostly black with slight firmness for optimal sweetness and flavor in your plantain breakfast.
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Microwave Caution: Always allow the microwaved plantain to cool briefly before handling; it can be very hot and tricky to peel right after cooking.
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Flavor Enhancements: Don’t be shy about experimenting! Try adding spices or herbs to the eggs; a pinch of cayenne can add a delightful kick to your plantain breakfast.
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Topping Variety: Feel free to mix and match toppings. If you don’t have sunflower kernels, any chopped nuts or seeds work well, adding crunch and nutrition.
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Prep Ahead: For a quicker morning, prep the plantain and eggs the night before. Store the cooked egg in the refrigerator and microwave it briefly to warm before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Healthy Plantain Breakfasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can microwave the plantains and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, ensuring they remain tender and sweet. Additionally, you can cook the eggs in advance and reheat them just before serving; they’ll maintain their delicious qualities if kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prepare ahead, simply follow the initial cooking steps, then refrigerate the components separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your plantain breakfast, reheat the plantains and eggs, assemble on a plate, and top with any optional seeds or nuts for that delightful crunch. This way, you’ll have a nutritious breakfast ready to go with minimal effort, making your busy mornings a breeze!
Plantain Breakfast Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting plantains?
Absolutely! Choose ripe plantains with mostly blackened skin, as they’ll provide the best sweetness and flavor for your plantain breakfast. A little firmness is okay; that’s a good sign they are ripe yet not overly mushy.
How should I store leftover plantain breakfast?
Keep any leftover components—plantain and eggs—in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave until warmed through, but do so gently to prevent the egg from becoming rubbery.
Can I freeze plantain breakfast?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked plantains separately from the eggs for up to 1 month. For freezing, cool the components completely, then place them in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, warm the plantains in the microwave or on the stove, ensuring they’re heated through.
What if my plantains are undercooked?
If you find that your plantains aren’t as tender as you’d like, simply microwave them for an additional minute or so until they’re easily pierced with a fork. It’s best to check them in 30-second intervals to prevent overcooking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This dish is gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian, making it a great option for a variety of dietary needs. If you’re serving this to someone with a nut allergy, skip the nuts and seeds, or use sunflower kernels as a tasty substitute. Always check labels for potential allergens when selecting packaged ingredients.
Delicious Plantain Breakfast: Quick, Healthy & Satisfying!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wrap the unpeeled plantain in a damp paper towel and microwave it for about 3 minutes until tender.
- Place a small frying pan over medium heat and add coconut oil, letting it melt and become fragrant.
- Crack the egg into the heated pan, seasoning with salt and black pepper; cook until the egg white is firm and the yolk is runny, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- After microwaving, unwrap the plantain, peel off the skin, and place it on a plate coated with a little coconut oil.
- Top the plantain with the cooked egg and add optional seeds or nuts for crunch and nutrition.