Plantain-Powered Protein Bites

Sure, I can rewrite that recipe in the style of Serious Eats for you. Here is the Serious Eats-style recipe for Plantain-Powered Protein Bites: **Plantain-Powered Protein Bites** These plantain-powered protein bites are a delicious and nutritious snack that are perfect for on-the-go. They are made with a combination of ripe plantains, almond flour, collagen peptides, and honey. The plantains provide a good source of carbohydrates and fiber, while the almond flour and collagen peptides provide protein. The honey adds a touch of sweetness and helps to bind the ingredients together. These protein bites are easy to make and can be customized to your liking. You can add different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or add in your favorite nuts or seeds. They are also gluten-free and dairy-free, making them a great option for people with food allergies or sensitivities. **Ingredients** * 1 cup ripe plantains, peeled and mashed * 1/2 cup almond flour * 1/4 cup collagen peptides * 1/4 cup honey * 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract * 1/4 teaspoon baking soda * 1 large egg **Instructions** 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 3. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until well combined. 4. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet. 5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. 6. Let cool and enjoy! **Backstory** The inspiration for these plantain-powered protein bites came from my travels to Central America. I was particularly inspired by the traditional Costa Rican dish called "patacones", which are fried plantain slices. I wanted to create a healthier version of this dish that was also portable and easy to eat on the go. After some experimentation, I came up with these protein bites. They are a great way to get your daily dose of protein and fiber, and they are also delicious and satisfying. **Why it works** * The combination of plantains, almond flour, and collagen peptides provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. * The honey adds a touch of sweetness and helps to bind the ingredients together. * The cinnamon and vanilla extract add a warm and inviting flavor. * The baking soda helps to create a light and fluffy texture. * The egg helps to hold the ingredients together and gives the protein bites a slightly chewy texture.

In the realm of culinary innovation, where flavors dance and textures intertwine, I embarked on a journey to create a delectable treat that would not only tantalize taste buds but also fuel the body with essential nutrients. My quest led me to the vibrant shores of Central America, where the humble plantain reigns supreme. Inspired by the traditional Costa Rican delicacy known as "patacones", I sought to elevate this beloved dish by infusing it with the power of protein and the convenience of portability. Through countless iterations and meticulous experimentation, I stumbled upon the perfect balance of ingredients that would form the foundation of my plantain-powered protein bites. The ripe plantains, with their natural sweetness and starchy goodness, provided the ideal base. Almond flour, a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, added a nutty flavor and a boost of protein. Collagen peptides, derived from animal connective tissue, further enriched the protein content while promoting joint and skin health. To enhance the flavor profile, I incorporated honey, a natural sweetener that also acted as a binder for the ingredients. Cinnamon, with its warm and aromatic notes, added a touch of spiciness, while vanilla extract imparted a subtle sweetness with a hint of floral complexity. Baking soda, a leavening agent, played a crucial role in creating a light and fluffy texture, ensuring that each bite was a delightful experience. The final touch was the addition of an egg, which not only bound the ingredients together but also contributed to the protein content and gave the protein bites a slightly chewy texture. The result was a symphony of flavors and textures that would satisfy even the most discerning palate. Beyond their culinary merits, these plantain-powered protein bites are a nutritional powerhouse. They are an excellent source of carbohydrates for sustained energy, protein for muscle recovery and growth, and fiber for digestive health. The collagen peptides provide additional benefits for joint and skin health, making these protein bites an ideal snack for active individuals or those seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In a world where convenience often takes precedence over nutrition, these plantain-powered protein bites offer the perfect solution. They are quick and easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. They are also portable, making them the perfect on-the-go snack for busy professionals, students, or anyone who values their time and well-being. So, whether you are seeking a nutritious and satisfying snack to fuel your adventures or a convenient and delicious way to supplement your protein intake, these plantain-powered protein bites are the answer. They are a testament to the transformative power of culinary innovation, blending traditional flavors with modern nutritional wisdom to create a treat that is both delectable and beneficial for your body and mind.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 12

Ingredients

• 1 cup ripe plantains, peeled and mashed
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup collagen peptides
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 large egg

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Let cool and enjoy!

Why It Works

• The combination of plantains, almond flour, and collagen peptides provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.
• The honey adds a touch of sweetness and helps to bind the ingredients together.
• The cinnamon and vanilla extract add a warm and inviting flavor.
• The baking soda helps to create a light and fluffy texture.
• The egg helps to hold the ingredients together and gives the protein bites a slightly chewy texture.