Cookbook:Liberian Fried Plantains with Beans

Liberian fried plantains with beans is a popular and delicious dish in Liberia. It combines the sweet and savory flavors of ripe plantains with the heartiness of cooked beans. This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish, and it's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

 * 3 ripe plantains
 * Vegetable oil, for frying
 * 1 onion, finely chopped
 * 2 cloves of garlic, minced
 * 1 cup cooked beans (black-eyed peas or kidney beans)
 * 1 teaspoon ground paprika
 * ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
 * Salt, to taste

Equipment

 * Large frying pan
 * Slotted spoon

Procedure

 * 1) Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into diagonal slices, about ½ inch thick.
 * 2) In a large frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
 * 3) Fry the plantain slices in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried plantains to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
 * 4) In the same frying pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
 * 5) Add the cooked beans to the pan and mix well with the onions and garlic.
 * 6) Season the beans with ground paprika, ground black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir to coat the beans evenly with the spices.
 * 7) Cook the bean mixture for a few minutes until it is heated through.
 * 8) Serve the fried plantains alongside the seasoned beans and enjoy this delightful and flavorful Liberian dish.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add other spices like cayenne pepper or thyme for extra flavor.
 * If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can sprinkle a little brown sugar on the fried plantains before serving.
 * This dish can be served as a main course with rice or as a side dish with grilled or fried fish or meat.
 * Leftover fried plantains and beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
 * Beans are rich in protein, dietary fiber, and various nutrients such as iron and folate.