Name: Jibarito Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 2 cups Vegetable Oil; 1 green plantain; 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 1 clove garlic; 4 oz beef skirt steak; ¼ medium yellow onion; 1 pinch cumin; 1 pinch oregano; 1 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 American cheese slice; 2 tomato slices; 3 lettuce leaves

The jibarito is a mouthwatering sandwich that replaces traditional bread with crispy green plantain slices. This unique dish combines savory skirt steak with fresh lettuce, tomato, and a slice of American cheese, all brought together with a hint of garlic and creamy mayonnaise.

Photos of Jibarito Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common, you might need to visit a supermarket for a few items. Green plantains are essential for the crispy 'bread' and can usually be found in the produce section. Skirt steak may not be as commonly stocked as other cuts of beef, so check the meat section for this flavorful option. Fresh lettuce and tomato are also vital for the crunchy, refreshing contrast.

Ingredients for Delicious Jibarito

Vegetable oil: Ideal for frying the plantain slices to a crispy perfection.

Green plantain: Acts as the 'bread' for this unique sandwich.

Garlic: Adds a burst of flavor to the steak and onion mixture.

Beef skirt steak: The main protein, offering a rich, savory taste.

Yellow onion: Provides a sweet and slightly sharp flavor to complement the steak.

Cumin: A spice that adds earthy warmth to the dish.

Oregano: Adds a hint of herbaceous flavor.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps to bind the sandwich.

American cheese slice: Melts perfectly, adding a creamy texture.

Tomato slices: Adds a juicy freshness to the sandwich.

Lettuce leaves: Provides a crisp, refreshing bite.

One reader, Christiana Baca says:

This jibarito recipe is a game-changer! The crispy plantains and savory steak blend perfectly with the fresh lettuce and tomato. It's a unique and delicious twist on a sandwich that I can't get enough of. Highly recommend!

Christiana Baca

Techniques Required for Making a Jibarito

How to heat oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or deep fryer to 350 degrees F. How to cook plantains: Place plantain halves in the oil and cook 1 to 2 minutes, until they float. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. How to flatten plantains: Place plantain halves between 2 cutting boards. Press to flatten. Place the flattened plantains back in the oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. How to cook steak: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet. Add the garlic, skirt steak, onion, cumin, and oregano. Cook, stirring frequently, until steak is cooked through. How to assemble sandwich: Spread mayonnaise on one of the plantain slices. Top with cheese, steak and onion mixture, lettuce, and tomato. Place the other plantain half on top to form a sandwich. Cut in half and serve.

How To Make Jibarito

Have this amazing Puerto Rican sandwich for lunch. This jibarito sandwich is made with bananas instead of bread. It’s slightly sweet and tender.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsvegetable oil,for frying
1green plantain,peeled and halved lengthwise
2tbspvegetable oil,for saute
1clove garlic,minced
4ozbeef skirt steak,cut into thin strips
¼medium yellow onion,thinly sliced
1pinchcumin
1pinchoregano,dried
1tbspmayonnaise
1American cheese slice,processed, cut in half
2tomato slices
3lettuce leaves

Instructions

Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or deep fryer to 350 degrees F.
Place plantain halves in the oil and cook 1 to 2 minutes, until they float. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Place plantain halves between 2 cutting boards. Press to flatten. Place the flattened plantains back in the oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet. Add the garlic, skirt steak, onion, cumin and oregano. Cook, stirring frequently, until steak is cooked through.
To serve, spread mayonnaise on one of the plantain slices. Top with cheese, steak and onion mixture, lettuce, and tomato. Place the other plantain half on top to form a sandwich. Cut in half and serve!

Nutrition

Calories: 4844.54kcal
Fat: 507.62g
Saturated Fat: 41.88g
Trans Fat: 4.43g
Monounsaturated Fat: 353.88g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 89.09g
Carbohydrates: 64.92g
Fiber: 5.50g
Sugar: 29.61g
Protein: 30.40g
Cholesterol: 92.78mg
Sodium: 372.32mg
Calcium: 141.11mg
Potassium: 1476.35mg
Iron: 3.72mg
Vitamin A: 152.49µg
Vitamin C: 43.87mg

Technique Tip for Crafting the Perfect Jibarito

When flattening the plantain halves, use a piece of parchment paper between the cutting boards to prevent sticking and ensure an even press. This will help achieve a uniform thickness, which is crucial for even frying and a perfect jibarito.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Delicious Jibarito

Preheat the oil: Start heating the vegetable oil while you prep other ingredients to save time.

Slice plantains ahead: Peel and slice the plantain in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Marinate the steak: Season the skirt steak with cumin and oregano beforehand for quicker cooking.

Use a garlic press: Mince the garlic quickly with a press to save chopping time.

Prep veggies early: Wash and slice the tomato and lettuce ahead of time.

Assemble efficiently: Lay out all ingredients before assembling the jibarito to make the process smoother.

Substitute Ingredients For Jibarito Recipe

vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a suitable alternative for frying.
green plantain - Substitute with green banana: Green bananas have a similar starchy texture and can be used in place of plantains for a similar result.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for sautéing and adds a richer flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile when fresh garlic is not available.
beef skirt steak - Substitute with flank steak: Flank steak has a similar texture and flavor, making it a good alternative for skirt steak.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a similar flavor and can be used interchangeably with yellow onions.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a warm, citrusy flavor that can mimic the earthiness of cumin.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme has a slightly different but complementary flavor that can work well in place of oregano.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to mayonnaise.
american cheese slice - Substitute with cheddar cheese slice: Cheddar cheese offers a similar meltability and flavor profile.
tomato slices - Substitute with roasted red pepper slices: Roasted red peppers provide a sweet and smoky flavor that can complement the other ingredients.
lettuce leaves - Substitute with spinach leaves: Spinach leaves offer a similar texture and nutritional profile, making them a good alternative to lettuce.

Best Presentation for Jibarito

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the plantain halves into smaller, bite-sized pieces to create mini jibaritos. This allows for a more refined presentation and easier consumption.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a drizzle of garlic aioli and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This adds color and a touch of elegance.
Layer ingredients thoughtfully: Arrange the lettuce leaves and tomato slices in a visually appealing manner. Place the cheese slice so it slightly melts over the steak, creating a mouth-watering effect.
Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for the freshest lettuce and tomatoes. Use a premium American cheese slice and ensure the skirt steak is cooked to perfection, with a slight char for added flavor.
Plate with precision: Use a rectangular plate to align the mini jibaritos neatly. Add a small side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the dish and add a burst of color.
Highlight textures: Emphasize the crispy texture of the plantains by placing them on a bed of crushed plantain chips. This not only adds texture but also enhances the visual appeal.
Add a touch of luxury: Finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt and a few drops of truffle oil over the top. This elevates the flavor profile and adds a gourmet touch.
Create height: Stack the jibarito components slightly off-center to create a sense of height and dimension. This adds visual interest and makes the dish look more sophisticated.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Jibarito

Large deep skillet: Used to heat the vegetable oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for frying the plantains.
Deep fryer: An alternative to the large deep skillet for frying the plantains.
Paper towels: Used to drain the excess oil from the fried plantains.
Cutting boards: Used to press and flatten the plantain halves.
Large skillet: Used to cook the garlic, skirt steak, onion, cumin, and oregano.
Spatula: Used for stirring the steak and onion mixture while cooking.
Knife: Used to cut the plantain, onion, and tomato slices.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the vegetable oil.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the cumin, oregano, and mayonnaise.

How To Reheat Leftover Jibarito

To reheat a leftover jibarito, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the sandwich is heated evenly throughout.
Wrap the jibarito in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out during the reheating process. The foil will also help to keep the sandwich together and maintain its structural integrity.
Place the wrapped jibarito on a baking sheet and put it in the preheated oven. Allow it to heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is heated through and the cheese is melted.
Alternatively, you can reheat the jibarito in a panini press or on a griddle. Simply place the sandwich in the press or on the griddle and cook it for a few minutes on each side until it is heated through and the exterior is crispy.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can also reheat the jibarito in the microwave. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until it is heated to your liking. However, keep in mind that the microwave may cause the plantains to become slightly soggy.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to let the jibarito cool for a minute or two before biting into it, as the filling may be very hot.
If you find that the jibarito is a bit dry after reheating, you can brush a little bit of olive oil or melted butter on the plantains to help restore their moisture and flavor.

Random Fact About Jibaritos

A jibarito is a unique sandwich that originated in Chicago's Puerto Rican community. Instead of using bread, it features fried plantains as the base, giving it a distinct flavor and texture.

Is Making Jibaritos at Home Cost-Effective?

The jibarito recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like green plantain, beef skirt steak, and vegetable oil, the total cost is approximately $15-$20 for a household of 4 people. This includes the cost of lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayonnaise. Given its affordability and deliciousness, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10.

Is This Jibarito Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The jibarito recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

Deep-frying the plantains in vegetable oil adds a significant amount of unhealthy saturated and trans fats to the dish
The use of mayonnaise and American cheese contributes additional saturated fats and sodium
Skirt steak, although flavorful, is a fattier cut of beef, which can increase the overall fat content of the dish

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as the plantain (a good source of fiber and vitamins), garlic (known for its anti-inflammatory properties), and vegetables like onion, tomato, and lettuce, which provide essential vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of deep-frying the plantains, try baking or grilling them to reduce the amount of oil used
Opt for a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, to decrease the overall fat content
Replace the mayonnaise with a healthier spread, like mashed avocado or hummus, which are rich in healthy fats and fiber
Swap the American cheese for a lower-fat, more nutrient-dense option, such as reduced-fat Swiss cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding more lettuce, tomato, and even some grilled peppers or onions to boost the fiber and vitamin content

By making these simple modifications, you can transform this tasty jibarito into a more well-rounded and nutritious meal that still satisfies your cravings for bold flavors and textures.

Editor's Opinion on This Jibarito Recipe

This jibarito recipe offers a delightful twist on a traditional sandwich, using crispy plantains instead of bread. The combination of tender skirt steak, aromatic garlic, and spices creates a flavorful filling, while the fresh lettuce and tomato add a refreshing crunch. The use of American cheese and mayonnaise provides a creamy contrast to the savory elements. Overall, this dish is a unique and satisfying fusion of textures and flavors, making it a standout option for those looking to try something new and delicious.

Enhance Your Jibarito Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Crispy Yuca Fries: Imagine pairing your jibarito with golden yuca fries, perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. These delightful bites are seasoned with a hint of garlic and paprika, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the savory beef skirt steak in your sandwich.

Mango Avocado Salad: Brighten up your meal with a refreshing mango avocado salad. The creamy avocado and sweet mango create a harmonious balance, while a zesty lime vinaigrette ties everything together. This vibrant salad adds a burst of color and flavor to your plate.

Black Bean Soup: Warm up with a hearty black bean soup. Rich and flavorful, this soup is infused with cumin, oregano, and a touch of smoked paprika. It's the perfect way to add a comforting and nutritious element to your jibarito experience.

Grilled Pineapple: Add a touch of sweetness with grilled pineapple. The caramelized edges and juicy interior of the pineapple provide a delightful contrast to the savory notes of your jibarito. A sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey elevate this side to a tropical delight.

Coconut Rice: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with coconut rice. The subtle sweetness of coconut milk infuses the fluffy rice, creating a fragrant and creamy side dish that pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of your jibarito.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Jibaritos

Cuban Medianoche Sandwich: Dive into the flavors of Cuba with this delightful sandwich. Imagine succulent pork marinated in a citrusy mojo sauce, paired with sweet ham, melted Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and a smear of mustard, all nestled between soft, sweet bread. It's a midnight snack that will transport you straight to Havana!

Puerto Rican Mofongo: Experience the rich, savory taste of Puerto Rico with this traditional dish. Mashed plantains are combined with crispy pork cracklings and garlic, then shaped into a mound and served with a flavorful broth or sauce. Perfect as a main course or a hearty side, this dish is a celebration of island flavors.

Dominican Chimichurri Burger: Savor the vibrant taste of the Dominican Republic with this street food favorite. A juicy beef patty is seasoned with a blend of spices, then topped with fresh cabbage, tomatoes, and a special pink sauce, all sandwiched between a soft bun. It's a burger with a tropical twist that will leave you craving more.

Colombian Arepas: Indulge in the comforting flavors of Colombia with these versatile corn cakes. Made from cornmeal, these golden arepas can be filled with a variety of ingredients like cheese, chicken, or avocado. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they are a delicious and satisfying treat.

Venezuelan Pabellon Criollo: Delight in the national dish of Venezuela, a hearty and flavorful meal. This dish features shredded beef slow-cooked with tomatoes, onions, and peppers, served alongside black beans, white rice, and sweet fried plantains. It's a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and satisfying.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Jibaritos

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out large mushroom caps and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped spinach. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic bruschetta. Begin with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil. Pile on a fresh mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, seasoned with a touch of balsamic vinegar. This vibrant and refreshing appetizer is sure to impress with its simplicity and robust flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate at its core. This dessert is a perfect balance of a slightly crispy exterior and a gooey, warm center. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add a refreshing contrast to the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Tiramisu: Experience the classic Italian delight of tiramisu, a layered dessert that combines espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a luscious mascarpone cheese mixture. The subtle bitterness of the coffee perfectly complements the creamy sweetness of the mascarpone. Dust the top with a generous layer of cocoa powder and add a few chocolate shavings for an extra touch of sophistication. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Why trust this Jibarito Recipe:

This recipe for a jibarito is a must-try for anyone craving a unique and flavorful sandwich. The combination of crispy plantains, savory skirt steak, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes. The use of simple, everyday ingredients ensures that you can easily recreate this dish at home. Trust this recipe for its straightforward instructions and the promise of a delicious, satisfying meal.

Share your thoughts on the Jibarito recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this Puerto Rican sandwich even more delicious!

FAQ:

How do I know when the plantains are ready to be removed from the oil?

You'll know the plantains are ready when they float to the surface of the oil. This usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes for the first fry. For the second fry, cook them until they turn golden brown, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of skirt steak?

Absolutely! You can substitute the skirt steak with other meats like chicken, pork, or even a meat alternative if you're vegetarian. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if I don't have a deep fryer?

No worries! You can use a large, deep skillet instead. Just make sure to heat the oil to 350 degrees F and be cautious while frying to avoid any splatters.

Can I make the plantains ahead of time?

It's best to serve the plantains fresh for the best texture. However, you can prepare them up to the first fry and then finish the second fry just before serving to save some time.

What can I use instead of American cheese?

You can use any cheese you prefer! Swiss, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar would work well. Just pick a cheese that melts nicely and complements the flavors of the sandwich.