Mangú Verde

Introduction to Mangú Verde

Originating from the Dominican Republic, Mangú Verde is a cherished breakfast staple known for its simplicity and rich flavor. This dish is a vibrant take on traditional mangú, infusing the earthy flavors of green plantains with the freshness of other ingredients.

History and Cultural Significance

The dish is closely associated with Dominican households where it is traditionally served as part of a hearty breakfast. Mangú Verde emphasizes the influence of indigenous, African, and Spanish culinary practices, showcasing the blend of flavors that characterize Dominican cuisine.

Ingredients Required for Mangú Verde

• Green Plantains - 4 large
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Water for boiling - about 6 cups
• Salt - 1 teaspoon, plus more to taste
• Cilantro - 1 cup fresh, chopped
• Red Onion - 1 large, thinly sliced
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• White Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced

Preparation Steps

Before diving into the preparation of Mangú Verde, ensure that all the ingredients are fresh and ready. Clean and peel the green plantains, and gather your cooking utensils.

Cooking the Plantains

Green plantains are the star of this dish. Start by cutting the peeled plantains into evenly sized chunks. Bring the water and salt to a boil in a large pot. Add the plantains and cook them for 20 minutes or until tender. For best results, refer to a cooking timer.

Preparing the Onions and Garlic

While the plantains cook, heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add the red onions and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, approximately 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Stir in the white vinegar to blend all flavors well.

Mashing the Plantains

Once done, drain the plantains, reserving half a cup of the cooking water. Return the plantains to the pot and, using a potato masher, mash them while gradually adding the reserved cooking water and butter. Stir in the cilantro and continue mashing until smooth.

Serving Suggestions

Transfer the creamy Mangú Verde to a serving dish and top it with the sautéed onion mixture. The dish is popularly served alongside fried cheese, eggs, or salami in the traditional "Los Tres Golpes" style.

Enjoying Mangú Verde

Enjoy the comforting dish hot, paired with your favorite breakfast accompaniments. The rich creaminess of the plantains complements the bold flavors of the sautéed onions, making for a delicious and fulfilling meal embodying Dominican warmth and hospitality.

Conclusion

Mangú Verde offers a refreshing variant to traditional plantain dishes. With its unique combination of ingredients, it is less of a recipe and more of a cultural experience that brings a piece of the Dominican Republic to your kitchen.