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Homemade Turkey Pasteln (Sweet Plantain Lasagna) photo

Turkey Pasteln (Sweet Plantain Lasagna)

This Turkey Pasteln is a delightful twist on lasagna, combining sweet plantains and savory ground turkey for a unique and comforting dish!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Latin
Keyword: Comfort Food, Gluten-Free, Healthy
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 1.25 lbs Ground Turkey 93% lean
  • 0.5 cup Onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 Tomato chopped
  • 0.5 cup Green Bell Pepper finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp Cilantro fresh
  • 4 oz Tomato Sauce
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Fresh ground pepper to taste
  • 1.5 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 0.25 tsp Oregano
  • 2 Bay Leaves
  • 2 tbsp Capers or green olives
  • 4 Plantains ripe, peeled and sliced
  • 1 large Egg beaten
  • 3 Egg Whites beaten
  • 2 tbsp Fat-Free Milk
  • 1.5 cups Reduced-Fat Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese

For Baking:

  • Cooking Spray for greasing

Instructions

Preparation Steps:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, mist with cooking spray. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent.
  • Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the chopped tomato, green bell pepper, cilantro, tomato sauce, and capers. Season with kosher salt, fresh ground pepper, ground cumin, oregano, and bay leaves. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
  • While the turkey mixture is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and slice the ripe plantains into thin strips.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the beaten egg, egg whites, and fat-free milk. Whisk together until well combined.
  • In your greased 9x13 baking dish, layer half of the plantain strips on the bottom. Spread half of the turkey mixture over the plantains, followed by half of the egg mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining plantains, turkey mixture, and egg mixture. Finally, top with the shredded cheese.
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Once baked, remove the Turkey Pasteln (Sweet Plantain Lasagna) from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • 9x13 Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Spatula

Notes

  • For a heartier dish, add cooked butternut squash or sweet potatoes to the filling in winter.
  • In spring, try substituting asparagus or zucchini for a lighter version.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.