Mala Rabia (Spicy Plantain Dish)
A traditional Dominican dessert made with guavas, plantains, and sweet potatoes in a cinnamon-infused syrup. A comforting and naturally sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 3 large guavas
- 1 very ripe plantain, diced
- 1 cup diced sweet potato (batata)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- About 4 cups water
- ½ cup sugar
- Optional: ¼ cup condensed milk
Instructions
- Wash the guavas, cut them in half, scoop out the seeds, and slice them into wedges.
- Boil the guava seeds and cinnamon sticks in water for about ten minutes, then strain the liquid and discard the solids.
- Return the strained liquid to the pot, add the sugar, diced plantain, and diced sweet potato, and simmer until the plantain and sweet potato are tender.
- Add the guava wedges and cook for a few more minutes until the liquid reduces to a light syrup.
- Remove from heat and let cool. For a creamier version, stir in condensed milk once it cools. Chill before serving.
Expert Tips
- Use very ripe plantains for natural sweetness
- Don't overcook the guava wedges to maintain their texture
- The dessert tastes even better when chilled overnight
- Adjust sugar to taste depending on the sweetness of your fruits
- Serve chilled for the best flavor experience