There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the first sweet bite of plantain bananas in syrup, or Saging na Saba as we call it. As the aroma of caramelized brown sugar wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile, recalling sunlit afternoons spent with family, savouring this delightful treat. It’s truly remarkable how such simple ingredients can conjure up memories and warmth.
This recipe has become my go-to whenever I crave a comforting dessert that’s both easy to whip up and always impresses guests. With just a handful of ingredients, including the naturally sweet plantains and a hint of vanilla, this dish transforms into a captivating dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to serve it warm or chilled with some creamy evaporated milk, it’s a delicious reminder that homemade food can be as simple as it is heartwarming. Join me in bringing a little sweetness back into your home with this delightful treat!
Why is Plantain Bananas in Syrup So Loved?
Nostalgic flavors: This recipe delivers a delightful taste of childhood, sparking warm memories with each bite.
Effortless preparation: With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes, you’ll have a heavenly dessert ready to enjoy.
Versatile serving options: Whether warm, chilled, or topped with creamy evaporated milk, the choice is yours.
Crowd-pleaser: Its sweet, comforting flavors make it a favorite for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Simplicity meets elegance: The perfect way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Let this simple yet delectable treat transform your dessert game and make your home feel even cozier!
Plantain Bananas in Syrup Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for the sweetest delight!
For the Plantains
• 6 pieces plantain bananas (Saging na Saba) – each one cut into 3 parts diagonally, providing a perfect texture that absorbs the syrup beautifully.
For the Syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar – adds that rich caramel flavor we all love in plantain bananas in syrup.
• 1 ½ cup water – crucial for dissolving the sugar and creating the lovely syrup.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – a hint of vanilla enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional) – balances the sweetness for a more rounded flavor.
For the Toppings
• 1 cup cooked tapioca pearls (sago) (optional) – these add a delightful chewiness that elevates the dish.
• 1 can evaporated milk (optional) – for a creamy finish that perfectly complements the plantains!
How to Make Plantain Bananas in Syrup
-
Boil the water: In a saucepan, heat 1 ½ cups of water over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil. This is the base for the syrup that will envelop your plantains.
-
Dissolve the sugar: Add 1 cup of brown sugar along with ¼ teaspoon of salt if using. Stir continuously until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved, creating a sweet syrup to embrace the bananas.
-
Add vanilla: Once the sugar is dissolved, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional). Bring it back to a boil, and then reduce the heat to medium, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening slightly.
-
Cook the plantains: Gently add the prepared plantain bananas to the syrup. Cover the saucepan and let them cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the bananas are tender and the syrup has thickened to a delightful consistency.
-
Incorporate tapioca pearls: If you’re using cooked tapioca pearls, gently stir them into the mixture just before removing it from the heat. This adds a fun and chewy texture to your sweet treat.
-
Cool and serve: Allow the mix to cool down to room temperature, or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing dessert. When ready to serve, add ice cubes or crushed ice and drizzle with evaporated milk for a creamy touch.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an extra flavor twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Plantain Bananas in Syrup Variations
Ready to play chef and make this dish your own? Let’s take your plantain bananas in syrup to a whole new level!
-
Coconut Milk: Substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist that enhances the rich flavors.
-
Spiced Rum: Add a splash of spiced rum to the syrup for a warm, aromatic note that elevates your dessert experience. Imagine the hint of vanilla dancing with the rum!
-
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like toasted almonds or cashews on top to add a satisfying crunch and contrast to the soft bananas.
-
Cinnamon Infusion: Incorporate a stick of cinnamon during the simmering process for an aromatic warmth that invites you in with every bite.
-
Fresh Fruit: Sliced mango or strawberries can be added just before serving for a refreshing burst of flavor, brightening the sweetness of the dish.
-
Brown Sugar Alternatives: Try maple syrup or honey as a more natural sweetener for the syrup, giving a unique twist that enhances the plantains’ natural sweetness.
-
Heat Factor: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising kick! The spice complements the sweetness beautifully, creating an unforgettable blend.
-
Boozy Banana Flambé: For a show-stopping finish, flambé your bananas with a little overproof rum just before serving for a dramatic and delicious effect!
Let these variations inspire you to craft your perfect version of this cozy dessert!
How to Store and Freeze Plantain Bananas in Syrup
Fridge: Keep your leftover plantain bananas in syrup tightly covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the plantain bananas in syrup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as they freeze.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of water if the syrup has thickened.
Serving suggestions: Enjoy warm, chilled, or topped with evaporated milk to experience the delightful flavors of this dish at their best.
Expert Tips for Plantain Bananas in Syrup
- Choose Ripe Plantains: Ensure you use ripe Saging na Saba for the best sweetness. Look for bananas with a yellow skin and few black spots.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the syrup to simmer for the full 10 minutes before adding bananas to create a rich, thick base that clings beautifully to the fruit.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the plantains while cooking; overcooking can make them mushy. They should be tender yet hold their shape.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preferences. Remember, the syrup will be sweeter once cooled.
- Explore Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Use fruity toppings like mango, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for added depth to your Plantain Bananas in Syrup.
What to Serve with Plantain Bananas in Syrup?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this delightful treat with complementary dishes that enhance its sweet and comforting flavors.
- Creamy Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and texture of coconut rice underline the flavors of the plantains without overpowering them.
- Fresh Mango Slices: Bright, juicy mango adds a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the syrup. A delightful combination!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm plantains, providing a delightful temperature contrast.
- Toasted Cashews: Their crunch and nutty flavor add a satisfying texture that complements the softness of the bananas perfectly.
- Cinnamon Sugar Tortillas: Sweet, crispy tortillas dusted with cinnamon offer a fantastic textural contrast and a flavorful accompaniment to the dish.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits like pineapple and papaya enhances the fruity notes, making your dessert feel like a festive island treat.
- Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai adds aromatic complexity that beautifully complements the sweetness of the plantains.
- Coconut Flan: The creamy and slightly tangy nature of flan harmonizes with the sweetness of the plantains, creating a truly indulgent experience.
- Dark Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A drizzle of rich, dark chocolate not only elevates the dish but also adds a sumptuous depth that pairs perfectly with the syrupy bananas.
Make Ahead Options
These Plantain Bananas in Syrup are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the syrup up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps and then store it in the refrigerator. Just ensure the syrup cools completely before refrigerating to maintain its rich flavor and consistency. The cooked plantains can also be made ahead; simply refrigerate them in the syrup for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and don’t forget to add ice and evaporated milk just before serving for that refreshing finish! With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy a delicious dessert any day of the week with minimal fuss.
Plantain Bananas in Syrup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe plantain bananas?
Absolutely! When selecting Saging na Saba, look for bananas that are bright yellow with a few dark spots. These indicate ripeness and will ensure sweet, tender fruit. Avoid plantains that are overly black, as they may be too soft or beginning to spoil.
What is the best way to store leftover plantain bananas in syrup?
Great question! You should store your leftover plantains in syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it well to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
Can I freeze plantain bananas in syrup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled plantain bananas in syrup into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them gently on the stove.
Why did my syrup not thicken properly?
Very common! If your syrup isn’t thickening, it could be due to insufficient simmering time. The syrup needs to simmer for at least 10 minutes without rushing. If it still seems runny, increase the heat slightly and let it simmer longer. Just keep stirring to avoid burning!
Can I make this dish if I’m allergic to dairy?
Of course! If you or someone you’re serving has a dairy allergy, simply skip the evaporated milk topping. You could try substituting with a dairy-free alternative or serve it plain. The dish is delightful without it, too, as the plantains in syrup shine on their own!
How can I elevate the flavors of my plantain bananas in syrup?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup as it simmers. Another fantastic option is to include some citrus zest, like orange or lime, for a fresh twist. Each option brings a new level of deliciousness to your sweet treat!
Discover Plantain Bananas in Syrup for a Sweet Treat!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, heat 1 ½ cups of water over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Add 1 cup of brown sugar along with ¼ teaspoon of salt if using. Stir continuously until dissolved.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional) and bring back to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Gently add the prepared plantain bananas to the syrup. Cover and cook for 10 minutes until tender.
- If using, stir in cooked tapioca pearls just before removing from heat.
- Allow the mixture to cool, or chill in the fridge. Serve with ice cubes and drizzled with evaporated milk.