These Plantain Subs with Quick Pickles offer a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic sandwich. Inspired by easy refrigerator pickles and homemade pickling methods, this recipe brings together the vibrant crunch of quick dill pickles and the satisfying texture of plantains. With the perfect balance of savory and tangy, this sandwich is a delightful and easy-to-make meal for any time of the day.
Ingredients List:
For the Plantain Subs:
- 2 large Ripe Plantains (peeled and sliced lengthwise)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
- 4 small sandwich rolls (or baguette-style bread)
For the Quick Pickles:
- 1 cup Thinly Sliced Cucumbers
- 1/2 cup Vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Mustard Seeds (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dill Seeds (optional)
- 1-2 cloves Garlic (smashed, optional)
- 1 small Carrot (optional, for added crunch, thinly sliced)
Preparation Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the plantains lengthwise, creating thin strips. Place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and ground cumin. Roast the plantains for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and crispy on the edges. Tip: For extra crispiness, you can also pan-fry the plantain slices.
Step 2: Make the Quick Pickles
In a bowl or jar, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve. Add the mustard seeds, dill seeds, garlic, and carrots (if using), then add the sliced cucumbers. Stir to combine. Let the pickles sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Pro Tip: You can make the pickles ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a week!
Step 3: Assemble the Plantain Subs
Cut the sandwich rolls in half, then lightly toast them in the oven or on a skillet. Once the rolls are ready, layer them with the roasted plantains. Top with a generous amount of quick pickles, adding a little extra liquid for flavor if desired.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the plantain subs with a side of crispy chips or a light salad. Optional: Add fresh herbs or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zing.
Expert Tips:
- Tip 1: If you want to make your quick pickles spicier, add a sliced chili pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes to the brine.
- Tip 2: For a more substantial sandwich, add layers of your favorite cheese or greens like arugula or spinach.
- Tip 3: The pickles can be made with other veggies like radishes, onions, or even bell peppers for variety.
Why This Recipe Works:
The combination of warm, crispy plantains with the tangy, crunchy quick pickles creates a perfectly balanced sandwich. The sweetness of the plantains complements the sharpness of the vinegar and spices in the pickles, making each bite satisfying and flavorful. The simplicity of the pickling process also means you can enjoy the fresh crunch of pickles with minimal prep time.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Plantain Subs with a side of roasted vegetables, a light soup, or even some crispy fries for a complete meal. They’re also perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
Conclusion:
These Plantain Subs with Quick Pickles are a delicious and easy way to enjoy fresh pickled veggies in your everyday meals. With the right balance of flavors and textures, they’re a great alternative to traditional sandwiches. Try this recipe this week for a simple yet flavorful twist on your regular lunch or dinner routine. Enjoy and happy eating!