Torta de Platano
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A Note from Feedfeed
A Note from Feedfeed Team member Claudia Romero: This Torta de Platano has a special spot in my memories, coming straight from Maracaibo, Zulia – my hometown in Venezuela. Growing up, my mom often made this for me, and it was always my favorite. Even now, when I visit her, I can't resist asking for it because of my big love for plantains. This dish is a wonderful mix of sweet and savory flavors. While many pair it with beef, like carne mechada, and rice as a side dish, I enjoy it so much that I could have it as a main meal any time of day. The best part? This is my mom's own recipe, and her addition of bechamel sauce gives it an extra creamy touch that's just perfect.
This Venezuelan recipe comes to us from Feedfeed team member, Claudia Romero, to celebrate her culture during Hispanic Heritage Month! It's perfect as a side dish or comforting vegetarian main course.
- Recipe Card
Recipe Card
ingredients
- 7 very ripe plantains (the skin should be dark brown/black), peeled and cut diagonally into ¼ slices (commonly known as “tajadas”)
- 4 cups (950 ml) whole milk
- 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Pinch kosher salt
- Pinch grated or ground nutmeg
- 4 cups (about 16 ounces) panela cheese, shredded
- 3 cups neutral vegetable oil, for frying
Make the Bechamel
Method
Step 1
Dissolve flour in milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Step 2
Add butter, sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture starts to boil or thickens slightly. Adjust consistency with more milk if too thick. Remove from heat, cover, and keep warm.
For the Plantains
Step 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2
Heat neutral vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Step 3
Fry plantain slices in batches until very golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season with kosher salt.
Assemble and Bake
Step 1
Generously butter a deep baking dish. Layer with fried plantain slices, bechamel sauce, and cheese, repeating layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a thick layer of cheese on top.
Step 2
Bake for 30 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown.
Step 3
Slice and serve hot and enjoy!