How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the rellenitos a day in advance and fry them just before serving.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or muscovado as an alternative to brown sugar.

Are there alternatives for frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F for 20 minutes if you want a lighter version.

How do I reheat rellenitos?

Reheat them in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes for a crisp texture.

Spicy Guatemalan Rellenitos with Sweet Plantain and Black Bean Filling

Name: Spicy Guatemalan Rellenitos with Sweet Plantain and Black Bean Filling
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Snack
Ingredients: Ripe plantains; Granulated sugar; Salt; Cooked black beans; Vegetable oil; Ground cinnamon; Cayenne pepper; Brown sugar; All-purpose flour; Ground cinnamon; Chili powder; Vegetable oil

A Fiery Twist to a Traditional Guatemalan Treat

Rellenitos are a beloved Guatemalan dish made from sweet plantains stuffed with a rich black bean filling. This version incorporates a touch of spice, elevating its flavorful profile.

1 h 30 min
8
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Plantain Dough

Ripe plantains

4, peeled and cut into chunks

Granulated sugar

1/4 cup

Salt

1/4 teaspoon

For the Black Bean Filling

Cooked black beans

2 cups, drained

Vegetable oil

1 tablespoon

Ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon

Cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon

Brown sugar

1/4 cup

For the Coating

All-purpose flour

1/2 cup

Ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon

Chili powder

1/4 teaspoon

For Frying

Vegetable oil

for frying

Preparation

Preparing the Plantain Dough

Boil Plantains

Boil plantain chunks in a large pot of water until tender, about 15 minutes.

Mash Plantains

Drain and return them to the pot. Mash with sugar and salt until smooth.

Cool Dough

Let the mashed plantain dough cool before using.

Chill the plantain mash for easier handling.

Making the Black Bean Filling

Heat Oil

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Cook Beans

Add black beans and cook for 5 minutes, mashing them coarsely.

Season Filling

Stir in cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. Cook until thickened.

Ensure the filling is thick to avoid leaks during frying.

Cooking Process

Shape the Rellenitos

Take a small portion of plantain dough, flatten it in your palm, place a tablespoon of filling in the center, and wrap the dough around it.

Coat the Rellenitos

Roll the rellenitos in the cinnamon-flour mixture until evenly coated.

Fry the Rellenitos

Heat oil in a pan and fry rellenitos until golden brown on all sides.

Plating & Serving