platanos

Plantains are a very unique and versatile type of banana. They can be eaten at any stage of their ripening process, from very green and hard to soft and yellow. They look very much like regular bananas, but they are about two times bigger and have to be cooked before they are eaten. They are also an accuired Ecuadorian taste, being alot less sweeter and more starchy than other types of bananas. They are very handy in cooking, because they keep their shape, unlike other bananas, which get mushy. They can also made into thin slices, fried in lard, and rolled in salt or sugar as a favorite Ecuadorian treat.
 * Platanos or Plantains**