How to Make Perfect Nigerian Boiled Plantain – Easy & Healthy Recipe

Nigerian cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors, textures, and nutrition, and one of its simplest yet incredibly satisfying dishes is boiled plantain. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a light meal, or a nutrient-rich addition to your diet, boiled plantain is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to prepare, takes just minutes, and pairs well with various stews, sauces, and proteins.

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about boiled plantain, from the best type of plantains to use to how to cook them to perfection. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love Boiled Plantain

Boiled plantain is not only a staple in Nigerian homes but also a global favorite due to its numerous health benefits and versatility. Here’s why you should add this dish to your menu:

✅ Healthy & Nutritious – Plantains are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and B6, potassium, and magnesium, making them excellent for digestion and heart health. ✅ Quick & Easy – Boiled plantains are super simple to prepare and require minimal ingredients. ✅ Versatile – Can be eaten alone, paired with spicy sauces, or served with beans, vegetables, or protein like fish, eggs, or meat. ✅ Gluten-Free & Vegan-Friendly – A fantastic option for those on special diets.

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Ingredients Needed

To make a delicious plate of boiled plantain, you need:

• 2–3 ripe or unripe plantains (depending on your preference)
• Water (for boiling)
• A pinch of salt (optional)

Pro Tip: Ripe plantains (yellow with black spots) are sweeter and softer, while unripe plantains (green) are firmer and have a more neutral taste.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Boiled Plantain

Step 1: Choose and Prepare Your Plantains

• Pick plantains based on your taste preference (ripe for a sweet taste, unripe for a starchy, mild flavor).
• Wash the plantains thoroughly to remove any dirt from the skin.
• Using a knife, cut off both ends of each plantain.
• Make a shallow vertical slit along the length of each plantain to make peeling easier.
• If you prefer, you can boil plantains with the skin on to retain more nutrients and prevent them from becoming mushy.

Step 2: Boil the Plantains

• Place the plantains in a pot and add enough water to cover them completely.
• Add a pinch of salt (optional) for extra flavor.
• Cover the pot and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
• Allow to cook for 10–15 minutes for peeled plantains and 15–20 minutes for unpeeled plantains.
• To check if they are done, pierce them with a fork – they should be soft but not mushy.

Step 3: Drain and Serve

• Once cooked, drain the hot water and allow the plantains to cool slightly.
• If you boiled them with the skin on, gently peel the skin off.
• Cut into smaller pieces or serve whole, depending on your preference.
• Enjoy!

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