Sweet Plantain Balls (Boloncitos)

Ingredients

• 3 Ripe plantains (peeled and cut into large chunks)
• 0.5 cup Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 150 g Queso fresco or mozzarella (cut into small cubes for the filling)
• 100 g Pork rinds (chicharrón) (crushed or in small pieces)
• Salt (to taste)

Steps

1. 1

   Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into medium-sized chunks.

2. 2

   Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the plantain chunks until golden brown and soft on all sides.

3. 3

   Remove the plantains from the oil and place them in a bowl. While still hot, mash them with a masher or fork until a manageable dough forms. Add a pinch of salt if desired.

4. 4

   Take a portion of the plantain dough and form a small ball with your hands.

5. 5

   Make a hole in the center of the ball and fill it with a cube of cheese and a bit of pork rinds.

6. 6

   Close the ball, ensuring the filling is well-sealed inside. Repeat the process with the remaining dough.

7. 7

   Optionally, you can fry the balls again in hot oil for 1-2 minutes until they are slightly crispy on the outside.

8. 8

   Serve hot, ideally accompanied by a sauce or coffee.

Notes

Although the video suggests using ripe plantains, some regions prefer green ones for a firmer texture. You can add Parmesan cheese on top as suggested by the community.

Nutrition per serving

• appetizer
• snack
• ripe plantain
• movie night
• fried
• latin food