Name: Delicious Green Plantain Porridge with Seafood
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Green Plantain (Unripe for perfect texture); 2 tablespoons Red Palm Oil (Swap with coconut oil for a lighter taste); 1 medium Onion (Diced); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 teaspoon Ginger Powder (Use fresh for more flavor); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Optional, enhances onion flavor); 1 tablespoon Ground Crayfish (For umami boost); 1 teaspoon Pepper Mix (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to preference); 2 cups Mixed Seafood (Any combination of fish, shrimp, or squid); 2 cups Kale (Washed and sliced thinly)

Pin1

1 Shares

When the chilly evenings of autumn begin to peek around the corner, there’s an undeniable comfort in warm, hearty dishes that nourish both body and soul. My journey into the flavors of West Africa led me to a delightful recipe that’s quickly become a staple in my kitchen: Green Plantain Porridge with Seafood. This creamy, vibrant dish combines the starchy goodness of unripe plantains with a medley of fresh seafood and kale, resulting in a bowl of pure satisfaction.

What I love most about this porridge is its ability to bring a taste of home into your kitchen without much fuss. Packed with nutrition and flavor, it serves up warm comfort that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with friends. Plus, with a dash of red palm oil and a hint of spice, each bite is a celebration of West African culinary traditions that will transport you straight to the bustling markets of Cameroon, Ghana, or Nigeria. Ready to dive into a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Green Plantain Porridge With Seafood a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: This porridge delivers a cozy, hearty meal that instantly warms you up on chilly nights.
Nutrient-Packed Goodness: Filled with seafood and greens, it’s a power house of essential vitamins and minerals.
Cultural Delight: A vibrant dish that celebrates West African cuisine and brings rich flavors to your table.
Easily Customizable: Swap in your favorite proteins or greens, making it versatile and easy to adapt.
Quick to Prepare: Made in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave nutritious comfort food.
Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of red palm oil, spices, and seafood creates a complex, savory taste that will delight your palate.

Green Plantain Porridge With Seafood Ingredients

For the Porridge Base
• Green Plantain – The heart of the dish; use unripe ones for the perfect texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Red Palm Oil – Provides authentic flavor and color; swap with coconut oil for a lighter taste.
• Onion – Adds natural sweetness and depth; shallots can be a great alternative.
• Garlic – Boosts flavor profile; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Ginger Powder – Infuses warmth; fresh ginger gives it a more vibrant kick.
• Onion Powder – Enhances onion flavor without added crunch; skip if using plenty of fresh onion.
• Ground Crayfish – For an umami boost; can substitute with fish sauce or omit for vegetarian options.
• Pepper Mix – Adds desired heat; adjust to taste or use chili powder for variations.
• Salt – Balances the flavors; tweak according to personal preference.

For the Seafood Addition
• Mixed Seafood – A delicious protein boost; any combination of fish, shrimp, or squid works wonders.

For the Greens
• Kale – Nutrient-rich and adds texture; feel free to replace with spinach for a milder taste.

This Green Plantain Porridge with Seafood is ready to impress your family and friends, combining health and flavor effortlessly!

How to Make Green Plantain Porridge With Seafood

Peel Plantains: Start by carefully peeling the green plantains. Cut off the ends and score the skin to make peeling easier. Chop them into smaller pieces for cooking.
Prep Aromatics: Dice the onions and finely mince the garlic, preparing them to enhance the flavors of your porridge. Fresh garlic works wonders here!
Sauté Onions: In a pan, heat the red palm oil over medium heat until melted but not smoking. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
Spice It Up: Stir in the minced garlic, onion powder, ginger powder, ground crayfish, pepper mix, and salt. Pour in 2 cups of water, give it a gentle stir, and cover the pot to let the flavors meld.
Cook Plantains: Allow the mixture to cook for about 15 minutes or until the plantains are soft and the sauce starts to thicken. You want a nice, creamy texture!
Add Greens & Seafood: While the plantains cook, wash the kale, remove the thick stalk, and slice it thinly. After 15 minutes, stir in the kale and your choice of mixed seafood, letting it cook together.
Simmer Together: Lower the heat and let the porridge simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This step allows the seafood to cook through and the kale to soften. Feel free to mash for a thicker porridge!
Serve & Enjoy: Once everything is well combined and cooked, remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort!

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an added burst of freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Green Plantain Porridge with Seafood?

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement the creamy and savory flavors of this West African classic.

Fresh Leafy Salad: Light and refreshing, a salad with crisp greens and citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the porridge beautifully.
Grilled Plantains: The sweetness of grilled ripe plantains provides a delicious contrast that enhances the overall flavor experience.
Spicy Dipping Sauce: A tangy, spicy sauce, perhaps with a hint of tamarind, adds an exciting kick that pairs wonderfully with the mild porridge.
Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice brings a delightful texture that complements the heartiness of the seafood porridge. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Fried Plantain Chips: Crunchy and addictive, these offer a satisfying contrast to the creamy porridge, perfect for dipping or snacking alongside.
Mango Chutney: The fruity sweetness of mango chutney offers a burst of flavor that elevates the dish and adds an exotic twist to every bite.
Cucumber Raita: Creamy and cooling, this yogurt-based side helps balance the spices in the porridge, making it a harmonious pairing.
Sparkling Water with Mint: A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate and enhances the vibrant flavors of your meal, making every bite delightful.

Make Ahead Options

These Green Plantain Porridge with Seafood dishes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can peel and chop the green plantains, as well as prepare the aromatics (onions and garlic), up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can measure out your spices and refrigerate them together for quick access. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the aromatics, mix in the prepped plantains, and follow the remaining steps. This not only saves time during busy weeknights but also ensures that your dish turns out just as delicious and comforting as if you’d made it all at once!

Green Plantain Porridge With Seafood Variations

Feel free to customize your porridge with these delightful twists to suit your taste preferences!

Seafood Swap: Replace mixed seafood with shredded chicken for a different protein source, creating a comforting dish that will delight your family. Or try using beans for a vegetarian alternative that still packs a satisfying punch!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkling in some chopped habanero or jalapeños can elevate the heat level for those who enjoy a fiery flair. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for a truly personalized experience.
Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding spices like curry powder or smoked paprika, giving the porridge a unique flavor profile that wonderfully contrasts the creaminess of plantains.
Leafy Greens: Instead of kale, using collard greens or Swiss chard not only adds variety but also integrates more vibrant color and texture into your dish. Each green brings its own unique set of flavors!
Nutty Touch: Toss in a tablespoon of ground nuts, such as cashews or peanuts, for an unexpected crunch and a boost of richness that enhances the overall creaminess.
Coconut Cream: For a sweeter twist, mix in coconut cream along with your seafood. This addition brings an irresistible tropical richness that harmonizes beautifully with the plantains.
Umami Punch: Substituting ground crayfish with a splash of fish sauce can deepen the umami flavor profile. This change amplifies the savory notes and makes each bite utterly delicious.
Vegan Delight: Transform the porridge into a vegan-friendly meal by omitting seafood and replacing fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari, ensuring it’s both hearty and nourishing without animal products.

How to Store and Freeze Green Plantain Porridge With Seafood

Fridge: Store the porridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and rich flavors while preventing spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the porridge in portioned airtight containers for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go anytime!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the texture if needed. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Texture Tip: Note that freezing may change the texture slightly, so mash or blend before serving if you prefer a smoother consistency when reheating.

Expert Tips for Green Plantain Porridge with Seafood

Peeling tips: Use a sharp knife and score the plantains to avoid wastage; this helps with peeling unripe plantains effortlessly.
Adjusting thickness: Add more water for a soupier consistency and less for a thicker porridge. Find your perfect texture for the Green Plantain Porridge with Seafood!
Flavor enhancement: For extraordinary flavors, let the porridge simmer longer before adding seafood and greens to ensure depth and richness in every bite.
Seafood variations: Experiment with different types of seafood. Fresh or frozen, choose blends that suit your taste, and feel free to incorporate chicken or beans for variety.
Spice management: Tailor the pepper mix based on your heat preference, ensuring a pleasant balance that enhances—not overpowers—the dish’s natural flavors.

Green Plantain Porridge with Seafood Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right green plantains?
Absolutely! Look for firm, unripe plantains with a bright green skin. Avoid any with dark spots, as these indicate overripeness. Cutting the ends and scoring the skin before peeling will make this easier.

How long can I store green plantain porridge in the fridge?
You can store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge to maintain its delicious flavor and creamy texture.

Can I freeze this green plantain porridge?
Yes, you can freeze the porridge for up to 2 months! To freeze, allow it to cool, then portion it into airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore its original consistency.

What should I do if the porridge is too thick?
If your porridge turns out thicker than expected, don’t worry! Just add a little hot water or broth, stirring gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will give you that creamy texture you love.

Is this dish suitable for people with seafood allergies?
For those with seafood allergies, you can easily substitute the mixed seafood with shredded chicken, beans, or even a hearty vegetable mix. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious plantain porridge without any health concerns.

How can I enhance the flavors of my green plantain porridge?
For a flavor boost, allow the porridge to simmer longer before adding the seafood and greens. This enhances the depth of flavors. Feel free to experiment with spices like curry powder or smoked paprika for an exciting twist!