National Dish Cuba: Empanadas de Plátano (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Empanadas de Plátano, one of Cuba’s most moreish little treats. These savoury pockets are made from a soft, baked plantain dough that wraps up a warm, cheesy filling, striking a delicious balance between sweet and savoury. Every bite brings a new flavour, and the beauty of the dish is how straightforward it is — perfect for confident cooks and complete beginners alike. Bring a taste of the Caribbean straight to your own kitchen.
About Empanadas de Plátano
Empanadas de Plátano are among the most flavoursome delicacies Cuba has to offer. These hearty little pastries are built from a dough of cooked plantains and deliver a moreish mix of sweet and savoury notes. The filling changes to suit your mood, from richly cheesy to packed with vegetables, so every bite feels like a fresh discovery. The dish is loved not only for its taste but also for its easy preparation, which makes it just as welcoming for kitchen novices as for seasoned home cooks.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 ripe plantains
- 100 g feta cheese or a plant-based alternative
- 1 small onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients for empanadas de plátano, it is important to choose fresh, ripe plantains, as they largely determine the flavour of the finished dish. The plantains should give slightly to the touch and show an even yellow colour. For the filling you can use feta cheese or a plant-based alternative, depending on whether you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version. Onion and garlic are essential ingredients that lend the dish an aromatic depth.
Preparing the dish
Preparing the empanadas is key to drawing the full flavour out of the ingredients. Start by peeling the plantains and cutting them into small pieces. These are then boiled and mashed to create a smooth dough. Meanwhile, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until golden. This fragrant mixture is folded into the dough together with the feta to fill the empanadas.
Step-by-step instructions
- Bring the plantains to the boil in a pan of water and cook for about 15 minutes until soft.
- Drain the cooked plantains and mash them until you have a smooth consistency.
- Sauté the onion and garlic in a pan with the olive oil.
- Add the onion and garlic mixture to the plantain dough and combine well.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir the feta through the filling.
- Divide the dough into small portions and press each one flat.
- Place the filling in the centre and seal the edges firmly.
- Fry the empanadas in a pan with oil until golden, or bake them in the oven.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Empanadas de plátano are ideal for a gluten-free diet, since the dough is made entirely from plantains. For a lactose-free version, swap the feta for a vegan cheese or a mixture of blended nuts. That way the empanadas suit anyone with a food intolerance while staying wholesome and delicious. Give them a try and enjoy a whole range of flavours!
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans and vegetarians can adapt this recipe easily by replacing the feta with a plant-based alternative. There are plenty of vegan cheeses on the market that come close to traditional feta in both taste and texture. You can also vary the filling with different vegetables, such as spinach or peppers, to add even more nutrients and flavour. Experiment with herbs and spices to give the dish your own personal touch.
More tips and tricks
To make the empanadas even crispier, let them drain on kitchen paper after frying. This removes excess oil and keeps that crunchy texture intact. If you are baking them in the oven, it helps to brush them with a little olive oil beforehand to achieve a lovely golden colour. Keep the empanadas warm by holding them in a preheated oven at a low temperature until all the portions are ready.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
One of the great things about empanadas de plátano is how versatile they are, letting you tailor the recipe to your own preferences. Experiment with different fillings such as ham, chicken or assorted vegetables to give the dish an individual character, much like the shredded beef that fills a classic Ropa Vieja. You can also adjust the spices to add more heat, or bring a sweet touch with cinnamon and sugar. Let your creativity run free and enjoy the process.
Ingredient substitutions
If you struggle to find plantains, you can also use sweet potatoes or even a firm polenta-style vegetable base to achieve a similar effect. For the filling you can use different types of cheese or cheese alternatives, and even leftover stew makes for tasty variations. When choosing substitutes, keep the quantities the same to ensure the right consistency. A flexible recipe gives you the chance to try out and discover new combinations!
Drink pairing ideas
Empanadas de plátano go wonderfully with a refreshing Cuban drink such as a mojito or a daiquiri. These cocktails bring the flavours of the Caribbean to the table and pair perfectly with the sweet-savoury profile of the empanadas. For an alcohol-free option, a fresh lime lemonade or a cool coconut water works beautifully. These drinks are not only refreshing but also add a touch of tropical flair to your home.
Serving and presentation ideas
To present empanadas de plátano attractively, arrange them on a colourful plate and garnish with fresh herbs. You could also offer a dipping sauce made from yoghurt or guacamole, which pairs wonderfully with the crisp pastries. Colourful crockery and thoughtful plating heighten the visual appeal of the dish and whet the appetite. And don’t forget to set a nice atmosphere, because food always tastes better when the presentation is right.
A bit of history
Empanadas have their roots in Spanish cooking, where they were originally made from dough and a variety of fillings. In Cuba, the recipe for empanadas de plátano is an interesting adaptation that reflects the local abundance of plantains and other fresh ingredients. The dish is a symbol of Cuban culture and is often served at celebrations and gatherings. Its widespread popularity is testament to the versatility of Cuban cuisine and its ability to weave together different influences.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Empanadas de Plátano
Empanadas de plátano are not just a culinary experience but also an expression of Cuban culture. With their unique flavours and their versatility, they make the perfect finger food for any occasion. Whether as a snack, at a celebration or as a main course, they are always a good choice. Let the empanadas inspire you and enjoy a piece of Cuba in your very own kitchen!
