Plantain Boat

Stuffed Plantain with Savory Beef & Vegetables

If you’re looking for a fun, delicious way to enjoy plantains beyond the usual dodo and fried plantain combos, you’re going to love this one. These Stuffed Plantain Boats are crispy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside, and packed with a savory beef-and-vegetable filling that makes every bite exciting.

This recipe feels fancy, looks impressive, but is actually very simple to make. It’s one of those dishes you can serve for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer and people will definitely ask, “How did you make this?”

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this is a beautiful way to turn humble plantains into something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses simple, everyday ingredients
• A creative twist on classic fried plantain
• Crispy, cheesy, savory, and satisfying
• Easily customizable with chicken or vegetables
• Perfect as a main dish or snack

Ingredients

For the Plantain Boats

• Ripe but firm plantains – Plantain nutrition benefits
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Filling

• Ground beef (or chicken, optional)
• Onion (chopped)
• Tomatoes (chopped)
• Carrots (diced)
• Red bell pepper (diced)
• Scotch bonnet or habanero (optional, for heat)
• Garlic (minced)
• Spring onions
• Curry powder
• Thyme
• Cumin
• Seasoning cubes or powder
• Salt (to taste)

Topping

• Mozzarella cheese (grated)

Instructions

Prepare the Plantain Boats

1. Wash the plantains thoroughly before peeling to avoid transferring dirt from the skin.
2. Peel the plantains and make a slit along the center.
3. Carefully scoop out some of the flesh to create space for the filling. Set the scooped plantain aside.
4. Heat oil on medium heat and fry the plantains until golden brown on all sides.
5. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Make the Beef & Vegetable Filling

6. Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté chopped onions until fragrant.
7. Add tomatoes, garlic, and scotch bonnet. Fry for 3–4 minutes.
8. Add the ground beef and season with curry, thyme, cumin, and seasoning.
9. Cook until the beef is fully done.
10. Stir in carrots, bell peppers, and spring onions. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat. (Benefits of bell peppers and onions)

Assemble

11. Fill each fried plantain boat with the beef mixture.
12. Top with grated mozzarella cheese.
13. Melt the cheese in an oven, air fryer, or covered frying pan on very low heat.
14. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Use ripe but firm plantains so they hold their shape
• Don’t overfill – balance is key
• Let the plantain crisp properly before removing from oil
• Cheese is optional, but highly recommended

Learn How to grill or roast plantain evenly

Serving Suggestions

Serve these stuffed plantain boats with:

• A cold glass of Chapman
• Fresh salad or coleslaw
• Pepper sauce or stew on the side

They also work great as a party appetizer or brunch item.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
• Reheat on a pan or in an oven to retain crispiness
• Not freezer-friendly due to fried plantain texture

Final Thoughts

This Plantain Boat recipe is proof that plantain doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal, a creative side dish, or a fun party option, these crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside plantain boats always deliver. The combination of smoky roasted plantain with flavorful toppings makes it satisfying without being heavy.

It’s also a very flexible recipe you can switch up the fillings, make it vegetarian, or turn it into a protein-packed meal depending on what you have at home. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and guaranteed compliments. If you’re looking for a fresh way to enjoy plantain, this one deserves a permanent spot on your menu.

if you liked this recipe you can check out this potato fritatta recipe.