If you're looking for a delicious and filling meal, look no further than the Puerto Rican Style Ripe Plantain Meat Pie, also known as Pinon. This dish packs in 326 calories per 100g serving, making it a perfect option for those who want to indulge without feeling guilty.
In addition to being tasty, Pinon is also loaded with nutrients. Ripe plantains are a good source of vitamins C and B6, while ground beef is packed with protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc.
In this article, we'll explore how to prepare this classic Puerto Rican dish and learn about its rich history and health benefits.
Ingredients
To make Pinon, you'll need the following ingredients: - 3 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced lengthwise
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste Be sure to choose firm, yellow plantains that are just starting to show brown spots. Overripe plantains will be too sweet and mushy for this dish.
Preparation
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). 2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. 3. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce and remove from heat.
Assembly
1. Grease a 9-inch square baking dish with olive oil. Layer half of the sliced plantains in the bottom of the dish, overlapping them slightly. 2. Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture over the plantains, spreading it out evenly. 3. Layer the remaining plantains on top of the meat mixture, again overlapping them slightly. Press down gently to compact the layers.
Baking
1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. 2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. 3. Let the Pinon cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pinon is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Try one of these serving suggestions: - Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt - Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans
Here are the approximate nutritional values for one 100g serving of Pinon: - calories: 326 - Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
Variations
Pinon is a dish that lends itself well to experimentation. Here are some ideas for making it your own: - Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option - Add some heat by stirring in a diced jalapeno pepper or a pinch of cayenne powder
History
Pinon is a traditional Puerto Rican dish that dates back at least to the 16th century. It has its roots in Spanish and African cooking, and over time has evolved to reflect the flavors of the Caribbean. The name Pinon comes from the Spanish word "piononos," which refers to a type of sweet pastry that is similar in shape to the Pinon dish.
Health Benefits
Pinon is a hearty and satisfying meal that also happens to be quite nutritious. Some of the health benefits of this dish include: - Protein: One serving of Pinon contains 18g of protein, making it a great option for those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight. - Vitamins and minerals: Ripe plantains are a rich source of vitamins C and B6, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Beef is also packed with essential minerals like iron and zinc.
Storage
Pinon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10-15 minutes. Pinon can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat using one of the methods above.
Conclusion
Puerto Rican Style Ripe Plantain Meat Pie (Pinon) is a delicious and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. Whether you're a fan of traditional dishes or you're looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to please. So why not give it a try today?
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Rican Style Ripe Plantain Meat Pie (Pinon)
1. What is Pinon?
Pinon is a traditional dish from Puerto Rico made with ripe plantains and ground beef.
2. How many calories are in a 100 G serving of Pinon?
A 100 g serving of Puerto Rican Style Ripe Plantain Meat Pie (Pinon) contains 326 calories.
3. What are the ingredients in Pinon?
The main ingredients in Pinon include ripe plantains, ground beef, tomato sauce, peppers, onions, garlic, and spices.
4. How do you make Pinon?
To make Pinon, start by peeling and slicing the ripe plantains. Layer the plantains in a baking dish and alternating them with the ground beef mixture, which includes the tomato sauce, peppers, onions, garlic, and spices. Finally, top with the remaining plantains and bake in the oven until golden brown and crispy.
5. What can you serve with Pinon?
Pinon is often served with a side of white rice, beans, and salad. You can also pair it with a cold beer or a glass of red wine.