Fried Plantain as a starter.
The plantain is a member of the banana family, but completely different in taste. It is used in many savory dishes somewhat like a potato would be used and is very popular in Western Africa and the Caribbean countries. Plantains are native to India and are grown most widely in tropical climates. It is assumed that the Portuguese Franciscan friars were responsible for the introduction of plantains to the Caribbean islands and other parts of the Americas. Plantains are sometimes referred to as the pasta and potatoes of the Caribbean. In some parts of East Africa the plantain is a beer-making crop. Their attractiveness as food is that they fruit all year round, making them a reliable all-season staple food. The low fat content of plantain, coupled with its high starch content, makes it a possible food for geriatric patients. It may also be a possible food alternative for people suffering from gastric ulcer, coeliac disease and in the relief of colitis.
It is usually fried or baked. Fried plantain together with a yoghurt-garlic dip sauce is hard to resist!