Peel the plantains and either grate them on a fine grater or cut them into small pieces and blend them with a little milk into a smooth purée. This mixture should be smooth and lump-free.
Labouyi Bannann (Plantain Porridge)
- Total time - 20 minutes
- Preparation - 10 minutes
- Cooking time - 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Country: Haiti
Using fresh spices like cinnamon sticks and star anise really elevates the flavor of this porridge. If you don't have fresh spices, you can use ground ones, but remember to add them at the end so they don't burn. It is also important to stir constantly to prevent the porridge from sticking to the bottom of the pot. For a vegan version, you can use coconut or almond milk.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Labouyi Bannann
- 2 pieces green plantains
- 4 cups milk (or water, or coconut milk)
- 1 piece cinnamon stick
- 1 piece star anise
- nutmeg
- sugar (to taste)
- pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Plantains
Step 2: Cooking the Porridge
In a large pot over medium heat, bring the rest of the milk with the cinnamon stick and star anise to a boil. When the milk begins to boil, slowly pour in the prepared plantain mixture while stirring constantly.
Step 3: Thickening and Seasoning
Continue to stir and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken to a porridge-like consistency. Be careful to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the porridge is too thick, you can add more milk. Season with sugar, a pinch of salt, and nutmeg. Reduce the heat and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Serving
Remove the cinnamon stick and star anise. Ladle the hot porridge into bowls. You can serve it topped with extra cinnamon or with banana slices.