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The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

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Creamy Cheesy Plantain Gratin Recipe

Plantains, creamy sauce, and spices in this classic gratin recipe dish combine to make a delightful new food experience.

Plantains are an important staple food in Africa especially in Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Uganda. What are plantains? Plantains are fruits that resemble bananas but are longer, have a thicker skin, and contain more starch.

Creamy Cheesy Plantain Gratin Recipe

Creamy Cheesy Plantain Gratin Recipe
Creamy Cheesy Plantain Gratin Recipe

Ingredients

3 peeled and chopped green plantains

1 cup any grated medium-hard cheese

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

¼ cup all purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup plain breadcrumbs


Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Add plantains to a large pot of boiling water, boil 5 minutes. 

Drain plantains set aside. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over a medium heat, add the flour and whisk thoroughly. 

Gradually add the milk, whisking until it thickens, then stir in seasonings and cheese. 

Put a layer of plantains in an 8x8 baking dish, sprinkle some cheese over them, then add a layer of sauce.

Repeat the layers. 

Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs over the top. 

Bake 15 minutes until golden brown. 


More economical easy lunch and dinner recipes to make right now so you never have to eat or prepare a boring meal again.

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  3. Senegalese Chicken Vermicelli
  4. Caldo Verde Portuguese Kale Soup
  5. Air Fryer Black Eyed Pea Dumpling Stew

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African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

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