Before introducing you to the platano, a basic knowledge of the Guatemalan Food Pyramid is necessary. It should be noted that the Guatemalan Food Pyramid differs slightly from the U.S. version. As you can see, making up the base of the pyramid is "frijoles" or "beans." Tortillas (pictured above "frijoles") and beans often compete for the honor of "base of the pyramid." The other main food group (comparable to what we know as the "fruits and vegetables" group) is the "platanos" group. Platanos are big bananas that must be cooked before they are eaten. Finally, in the "fats, oils, and sweets" (use sparingly) group, you find "Pollo Campero." Pollo Campero is the Guatemalan fast food of choice... Overpriced chicken, fries, and lots of other unnecessarily greasy things.
And now, what you've all been waiting for... the platano. As you can see, it's a big banana. In these pictures I am taking a crash course in the most efficient way to prepare platanos. First you make a slit in the skin...
and peel it off.
and peel it off.
Lower knife, slowly at first, then more rapidly as you get the hang of it (and if you are not under 12).
And slice at an angle. Finally, you boil them with a few pieces of cinnamon and enjoy! (They are extremely yummy.)
I don't imagine I have to inform you of the cleanup...
And slice at an angle. Finally, you boil them with a few pieces of cinnamon and enjoy! (They are extremely yummy.)
I don't imagine I have to inform you of the cleanup...
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ReplyDeletewith a title like the good guatemalan life i couldn't help but do a little reading. i find too that peeling the platanos under a small stream of water helps with the stickiness. :) man i wish i were down there...cuanto tiempo tienes alla? y por supuesto saludos a laura y esa y a todos...scott de alaska
ReplyDeleteHey Scott- I've heard quite a bit about you. :) I've been here since Dec. 18, and it has been a pretty cool experience. It's been great to get to know Laura and just to have another American entregada here in general! Thanks for checking out my blog and taking the time to comment!
ReplyDeleteLOL. LOL. LOL.
ReplyDeleteNo one could say it better.
Absolutely love the Guatemalan food pyramid!
ReplyDeleteOkay Katie...since when is the age of 12 the magical knife year??? Ha Ha. That reminds me of when Lex was 4 and having a rare little cuddly moment with me. I said, "Lex, why don't you stay 4 and not grow anymore?" He looked up in alarm and said, "But Mama, then I'll NEVER get my one sharp knife." Platano sounds great!
ReplyDelete