Plantains are a pop in of fruit that’s a staple of many diets worldwideincluding the African Heritage Diet.
When wandering around the produce section, you’re free to find both green and yellow plantains.
What Are Plantains?
Tambra Stevenson
Plantains have the same shape as ordinary bananas; however, they tend to be larger.
They are a tropical fruit thought to have originated in Southeast Asia.
They grow abundantly in tropical climates and come in a variety of green or yellow hues.
Yellow plantains have a sweet taste and are softer than green plantains.
A peel that’s turning black is an indicator of a plantain’s ripeness and sweetness.
Health Benefits of Plantains
All of those nutrients come with a number of potential health benefits.
Improve Your Digestive Health
Digestive health is important for whole-body health.
The gut is one of the largest immune mediators within the human body.
The starch and fiber in plantains can helpsupport gut health.
Many eating patterns have been studied in relation to cardiovascular disease risk reduction, including the African Heritage Diet.
Plantains are supportive of cardiovascular health because of their fiber and potassium content.
And potassium helps improve your blood pressure by acting as a vasodilatorreducing the tension in your blood vessel walls.
Vitamins A and C are two of the top nutrients tosupport your immune systemand fight disease.
Each region within the continent has developed growing and harvesting techniques in relation to the climate and topography.
In addition, preparation techniques and flavor profiles vary.
North America
Plantains are not historically a staple part of African American foodways.
These regions' proximity to the equator and fertile land are perfect for the year-round growth of plantains.
They are a nutritious staple that can be enjoyed in many culinary applications.
Recipe to Try:Caramelized Ripe Plantains with Dark Rum
