In today’s ever-changing world, where veganism and organic foods are on-trend, a diet based on natural food items is crucial for maintaining good health and staying active. For instance, knowing which foods provide maximum energy when they land on your plate is an intelligent approach. Before we get to know the interesting facts about plantain. Firstly, we get to know that what plantains are?
What are Plantains?
In simple terms, plantains resemble bananas but have a starchier and less sweet taste than regular bananas. What makes plantains distinctive is their remarkable versatility. In the Canadian marketplace, plantains are readily available in any retail or online food store in Brandon, Canada. Individuals can consume them boiled or uncooked, and they have the flexibility to prepare them through boiling, frying, roasting, or enjoy them as ripe fruit. Plantains typically grow larger than conventional bananas and often receive the name “cooking bananas.” Notably, they have thicker skin and can vary in color, including green, yellow, and black. Due to these characteristics, people often use plantains as a vegetable. At the same time, they enjoy bananas as fruits, which have thin skin and come in various shades of green and yellow.
Certainly! Here are 10 interesting facts about plantains that you may not know:
Abundant in Starch Content
Plantains are quite different from their sweeter and softer cousin, the banana. They contain higher starch content and requires cooking or frying before consumption. They have a distinctively firmer texture and a less sweet taste. This unique characteristic makes plantains a versatile and fascinating addition to your meals.
The starchy nature of plantains brings several benefits. Firstly, their high starch content provides a steady and long-lasting release of energy. This means that when you consume plantains, you feel fuller for longer and experience sustained energy levels throughout the day.
Plantains are a Staple in Many Cuisines.
Due to their year-round fruiting capability, plantains serve as a reliable staple food, particularly in developing countries that lack adequate food storage, preservation, and transportation technologies. Furthermore, many tropical regions, including Africa, the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of Asia, widely consume them. Plantains are significant in local cuisine, as they are a staple ingredient in dishes like tostones and plantain chips. Among these dishes, tostones, serving as a savory item, emerge as the most popular choice. Notably, La Fe tostones, available in various flavors, are easily accessible in the commercial market.
They are Rich in Nutrients.
Vitamin C, an antioxidant, that helps the immune system and guards against free radicals, is abundant in plantains. They also contain vitamin A, vital for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. These vitamins contribute to overall well-being and are crucial for various bodily processes.
Additionally, they also provide minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Moving on, let’s uncover the potassium content in plantains. Plantains are a potassium powerhouse, with higher levels of this essential mineral compared to bananas. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining proper heart function, regulating blood pressure, and balancing fluids in the body. Including plantains in your diet can help support a healthy cardiovascular system.
Plantains have Different Stages of Ripeness.
Plantains go through various stages of ripeness, exhibiting a color transformation. When they are green, they possess a starchy consistency and are well-suited for cooking purposes. As they transition to yellow, they develop a sweeter taste profile and can be incorporated into both savory and sweet dishes. Once they reach a fully black color, they indicate maximum ripeness and boast a softer texture, rendering them perfect for baking or creating delectable desserts. The different stages of ripeness offer a wide range of culinary possibilities with plantains.
They are Versatile
Plantains can be prepared in various ways. They can be boiled, fried, grilled, baked, or steamed. Soups, stews, chips, and desserts can all benefit from the addition of plantains. Furthermore, plantains provide a low-fat alternative for a variety of culinary creations. Plantains are an excellent choice for individuals looking for a healthy alternative to classic fried treats. By using healthier cooking methods such as baking or grilling, you can enjoy the unique flavors and textures of plantains without excessive fat intake.
Good Source of Dietary Fiber
A type of dietary fiber is resistant starch, that resists digestion in the small intestine. It reaches the colon intact and acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in our gut. Moreover, Plantains are an excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gastrointestinal system. Fiber adds bulk to the diet, prevents constipation, and helps regulate bowel movements.
Used as a Gluten-Free Flour Alternative.
If you’re following a gluten-free or grain-free diet, plantains can be a valuable substitute. By transforming plantains into flour, you can create gluten-free versions of bread, pancakes, and other baked goods. For persons with celiac illness or gluten intolerance, plantain flour offers up a world of possibilities. Grinding plantains into flour provides a gluten-free alternative for baking, commonly used in recipes for pancakes, bread, and pastries.
Used as a Weight Management Aid
Moreover, plantains can be beneficial for weight management. Due to their high fiber content, plantains promote a feeling of fullness and satiety. This can aid in portion control and prevent overeating, making them a valuable addition to a weight-conscious diet. Additionally, the energy-providing carbohydrates in plantains can fuel physical activity and support an active lifestyle.
Plantain Leaves have Practical Uses.
The practical uses of plantain leaves are manifold. The plant’s large leaves find frequent application as plates for serving food, as wrappers to hold various culinary creations, or even for the purpose of steaming food. Additionally, these leaves have been utilized in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties. They play a crucial role in various remedies and treatments. With their versatile nature, plantain leaves serve a multitude of practical functions in both culinary and medicinal contexts.
They have a Long Shelf Life.
Plantains possess an extended shelf life when compared to bananas, making them a practical choice. They can keep their freshness for up to two weeks if stored in a cold, dry place. This extended duration allows for ample time to utilize them in various culinary preparations, thereby enhancing their versatility in cooking. Their lengthy shelf life allows them to be enjoyed for an extended period of time, giving flexibility and ease in meal planning.
Read More: The 13 Best Summer Superfoods For Men’s Health
Conclusion:
To summarize, plantains have numerous health benefits that make them an excellent complement to your diet. They help digestion and keep your stomach healthy because they have lots of fiber. Plantains also have important vitamins and minerals that are good for your body. They can make your heart healthy because they have potassium, and they can help you maintain a healthy weight because of their fiber and energy. You can cook plantains in different ways, which makes them fun to eat. Try adding plantains to your meals and enjoy the advantages they bring to your overall health and energy.
