Preparation

Plantains are the starchy cousins of bananas, and in their green state, they behave more like potatoes than fruit. Caribbean cooks have known this forever, turning them into everything from chips to the pounded magnificence that is mofongo.

This mug version gives you the creamy, garlicky essence of mofongo without requiring you to pound anything at 11 PM while your neighbors are trying to sleep.

Preparation

1. Put diced plantain in your mug and add water just to cover.
2. Microwave for 4-5 minutes until the plantain pieces are very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the water carefully (save a tablespoon or two in case you need it later).
4. Add coconut milk, butter, garlic powder, and salt to the hot plantains.
5. Mash everything together vigorously with a fork until you achieve a chunky-smooth consistency (it won't be completely smooth, and that's perfect).
6. If the mixture is too thick, add back a splash of the reserved cooking water.
7. Microwave for 30 seconds to heat through and meld flavors.
8. Finish with hot sauce and lime juice. Top with bacon or a fried egg if you're feeling ambitious.

Plantain shopping tip: For this recipe, you want plantains that are green to yellow. Black, super-ripe plantains are too sweet and won't give you the proper starchy base.