Ingredients

1/2 cup canola oil or 1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 large semi-ripe plantains , peeled and cut on a diagonal 2-3 inches long by 1/2 inch thick ovals ( yellow-black )
1 cup finely chopped red onion
3 garlic cloves , chopped
1 lb ground chuck
1/3 cup tomato paste
1/3 cup golden raisin , chopped
1/3 cup pimento stuffed olive , coarsely chopped , plus 3 tbsp brine from the jar
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 tablespoon yellow cornmeal
8 ounces queso fresco , crumbled and divided
4 pimento stuffed olives , drained and sliced
In most Latin households, plantains are a staple food item, making their way into many traditional dishes. This Plantain Picadillo Pie With Cheese recipe is a classic Latin recipe that is sure to satisfy all of your taste buds! Picadillo is a Latin term for a spicy, sweet, and savory ground meat mixture. This dish combines cooked plantains, seasoned ground beef, olives, and spices to create an incredible one-pan meal. The melted queso fresco on top adds a creamy, cheesy touch that complements and enhances the flavors perfectly. It's easy to make and bursting with delicious flavors!

Instructions

1.Heat 1/2 cup oil in a heavy saucepan, over medium heat. Fry plantains for about 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Set aside.
2.In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until they are caramelized. Add ground meat and cook for a few minutes or until browned.
3.Add tomato paste, raisins, olives, 3 tablespoons olive brine, oregano, cinnamon, cumin, allspice, salt, and cornmeal, stirring well. Cook for about 5 minutes over low heat.
4.Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch deep dish with 1 tablespoon of canola oil, place half of the fried plantains on the bottom of a dish, then add the beef mixture on top.
5.Add half of the crumbled queso fresco and arrange the remaining plantains on top. Finish with the rest of the queso fresco and sliced olives.
6.Bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

PROS

This dish is a good source of fiber, protein, and vitamins.

It is easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is packed with tons of amazing flavors.

This dish can be reheated for lunch or dinner the next day.

CONS

This dish is high in calories and saturated fats.

If you are not used to plantains and Latin food, the dish may taste too strong for your taste buds.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Plantains are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and they are high in fiber and potassium.
They can help regulate the digestive system and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

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