Vegan Puerto Rican Maduros and Pastelón Recipe

Vegan Puerto Rican Maduros and Pastelón: A Delicious and Cultural Feast

When it comes to Puerto Rican cuisine, few dishes embody the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage as beautifully as Maduros (fried ripe plantains) and Pastelón, a layered casserole that resembles a Caribbean lasagna. Here, we’ll dive into a vegan version of these beloved dishes, ensuring they remain true to their roots while catering to a plant-based diet.

Maduros (Fried Ripe Plantains)

Maduros are a staple in many Caribbean households, and their sweet, caramelized flavor is a perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 large ripe plantains (they should be black or nearly black)
• 1 cup light olive, canola, or vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plantains: Peel the plantains and cut them into 3/4-inch disks on a slight bias.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches the right temperature for frying.
3. Fry the Plantains: Carefully add the plantain pieces to the hot oil. Fry on each side for about 2 minutes, or until they are golden and slightly caramelized.
4. Season: Remove the fried plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with salt to taste.

Vegan Pastelón

Pastelón is a hearty, layered dish that combines the sweetness of plantains with savory fillings, making it a favorite in Puerto Rican cuisine.

Ingredients:

• For the Plantains:
  • 4-5 yellow plantains, very ripe
  • 1-2 cups frying oil (or use a non-oil method by baking)
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup cooked black beans (or pinto beans)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1/2 green pepper, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara
  • 1 tsp Adobo Seasoning Blend (see below)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried cilantro
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 pack vegan cheese
• Adobo Seasoning Blend:
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plantains: Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds. If frying, heat the oil in a large skillet and fry the plantain slices until they are golden. Alternatively, bake them in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil until tender.
2. Make the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion, green pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add the Beans and Mushrooms: Add the cooked black beans, chopped mushrooms, tomato sauce, Adobo Seasoning Blend, dried oregano, and dried cilantro. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Pastelón: In a baking dish, create a layer of fried or baked plantains. Follow with a layer of the bean and mushroom mixture, then a sprinkle of vegan cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of plantains on top.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.

Cultural Significance and Tips

• Maduros are often served as a side dish and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. They pair well with a variety of meals, from breakfast to dinner.
• Pastelón is a dish that brings families together. It’s a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. This vegan version maintains the traditional flavors while making it accessible to everyone.
• TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) is a great alternative to beans if you prefer a different texture. It’s widely available in Puerto Rico and is an affordable option.
• Sofrito is not necessary in this recipe, but if you want to add an extra layer of flavor to your filling, you can use a small amount of homemade or store-bought sofrito.

Enjoy Your Meal!

These dishes are more than just food; they are a celebration of culture and tradition. The sweet plantains and the savory filling of the Pastelón come together to create a meal that is both comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re from Puerto Rico or just a lover of Caribbean cuisine, these vegan versions will surely delight your taste buds and bring a piece of the island to your table.

1. Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials