Caribbean Plantain and Black Bean Bowl

Name: Caribbean Plantain and Black Bean Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 avocado, diced; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide

I absolutely love preparing this Caribbean Plantain and Black Bean Bowl! The combination of sweet, caramelized plantains and hearty black beans creates a dish that's not only satisfying but also full of vibrant flavors. I often serve it with a side of avocado and lime for an extra burst of freshness. This bowl is perfect for weeknight dinners or a fulfilling lunch, and it often sparks conversations about travel and discovering new cuisines. Trust me, this colorful meal will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:28:51.644Z

During my last Caribbean vacation, I discovered how perfectly sweet plantains complement the savory depth of black beans. Inspired by that experience, I set out to recreate this dish at home. The key is to let the plantains caramelize nicely in the pan; this enhances their sweetness and adds a lovely texture. Pairing them with seasoned black beans makes every bite a delightful adventure!

To elevate this bowl, I often adorn it with fresh cilantro, diced red onions, and a squeeze of lime juice. These additions not only brighten the dish but also harmonize the flavors beautifully. I've found that allowing the components to blend for a few moments before serving makes all the difference. You're going to love this!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and caramelized plantains that bring a tropical flair.
Hearty black beans for a satisfying, protein-packed meal.
Bright and zesty toppings that elevate every bite.

      

The Versatility of Plantains

Plantains deserve a spotlight in this dish not just for their sweetness, but for their versatility. When selecting plantains, choose ones that are ripe with yellow skin and speckles for maximum sweetness—the caramelization heightens their natural sugars. If you can't find ripe plantains, green ones can be used as a starchy substitute; just slice them thinner and increase the cooking time to achieve the desired tenderness.

Cooking plantains in olive oil over medium heat allows them to brown evenly, creating that coveted sweet outer crust. Monitor the heat closely; too high and they may burn before cooking through. You can also try frying plantains in coconut oil for a richer, tropical flavor, which adds another layer of authenticity to this Caribbean-inspired dish.

Perfecting Your Black Beans

The black beans in this bowl not only provide protein but also create a lovely texture that complements the soft plantains. Rinsing the beans thoroughly is crucial; it helps remove excess sodium and starch, resulting in a cleaner flavor. For an extra layer of depth, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder when sautéing your beans. This minor adjustment can enhance the overall taste profile.

Timing is key in ensuring the black beans are heated through without becoming mushy. After adding them to the onion and garlic mixture, aim for about 5-6 minutes on medium heat. Stir occasionally until they are heated and the flavors meld—look for the beans to glisten and become aromatic. If they seem too dry during cooking, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep them moist.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes to serving, consider layering the bowl for both aesthetics and flavor. Start with a base of the black bean mixture, add the caramelized plantains on top, and crown it with avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For an extra citrusy kick, serve with lime wedges on the side—it brightens each bite and enhances the tropical theme.

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your dietary preferences! If you're vegan, it’s already suitable, but you could also add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese if you’re looking for some creaminess. Additionally, for a whole grain option, serve it over quinoa or brown rice; this not only boosts nutrition but offers a heartier base for the bowl.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients to create a flavorful bowl.

Ingredients

2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, diced
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to customize these ingredients according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Caribbean bowl.

Cook the Plantains

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced plantains and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and caramelized. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Black Beans

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook for another 5-6 minutes until heated through.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine the black beans and plantains. Toss gently to combine. Top with diced avocado, lime juice, and fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your Caribbean Plantain and Black Bean Bowl warm for the best flavors!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider topping with some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Caribbean Plantain and Black Bean Bowl is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare the black beans and the caramelized plantains ahead of time. Store each component in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the beans and plantains in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

If you plan to make the bowl even further ahead, consider prepping the diced avocado right before serving. To keep it fresh, you can store it with a sprinkle of lime juice to prevent browning. Assemble in your bowl just before eating to ensure the textures remain vibrant and appealing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your plantains aren’t caramelizing properly, check the temperature of your skillet. Medium heat is ideal; if the pan is too hot, they may burn before achieving that perfect golden color. Adjust your heat accordingly and give them space in the skillet to avoid steaming, which prevents caramelization.

For those concerned about the black beans being too dry, adding a bit of liquid is essential. If you notice they become thick while cooking, just a tablespoon of broth or water can help maintain their tenderness. Remember, you want a flavorful, moist black bean mixture that pairs well with the plantains.

Scaling Up or Down

This recipe scales beautifully for larger groups or smaller portions. To double the recipe, simply increase all ingredients accordingly and ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the plantains without overcrowding. For smaller servings, this bowl can be halved easily without affecting the cooking times too drastically.

Cooking in batches is a great strategy if you want to prepare meals for the week. Make larger amounts of the black beans and plantains; both reheat well and can be incorporated into various dishes, such as tacos or salads, beyond just this bowl. Get creative with leftovers for even more delicious meals!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen plantains?

Yes, frozen plantains can be used. Just make sure to thaw and slice them before cooking!

→ What can I use instead of black beans?

You can substitute black beans with kidney beans or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure that all toppings are plant-based.

→ Can I prepare the black beans in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook the black beans ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.