How to Make Nigerian Plantain Frittata

For Nigerians living abroad, food isn’t just sustenance it’s identity, nostalgia, and a connection to culture. One dish that embodies this sentiment perfectly is the Plantain Frittata. A rich blend of sweet ripe plantains, spiced eggs, and vibrant vegetables, this meal combines local flavors with global technique, making it the perfect weekend brunch or hearty dinner for diasporans craving something familiar yet refined.

The plantain frittata is a Nigerian adaptation of the Italian egg-based dish, traditionally baked with vegetables, cheese, and meats. In the Nigerian version, fried ripe plantains replace potatoes, and the spices tell a distinctly West African story: thyme, curry powder, and scotch bonnet peppers create a flavorful base.

Whether you're hosting friends abroad or feeding your family, this dish is a showstopper that balances ease of preparation with visual and culinary appeal.

Ingredients:

Plantain Base:

• 2 ripe plantains (firm, not overly soft)

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• Egg Mixture:

• 6 large eggs

• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)

• 1 seasoning cube (Maggi or Knorr)

• 1/4 tsp curry powder

• 1/4 tsp thyme

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Fillings:

• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped

• 1/2 onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 scotch bonnet (atarodo), finely chopped

• 1/2 cup cooked protein: sausage, minced beef, or shredded chicken (optional)

  
  

Directions:

1. Fry the Plantains:

Peel and diagonally slice plantains. Shallow fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

2. Sauté the Fillings:

In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil. Sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers. Add your preferred protein and cook for 2–3 minutes. Season lightly.

3. Prepare the Eggs:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (if using), seasoning cube, thyme, curry, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Frittata:

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). In a greased baking dish, pour in half the egg mixture. Add the sautéed vegetables and meat. Layer with fried plantains. Top with remaining egg mixture and arrange a few more plantain slices and peppers for garnish.

5. Bake:

Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.

Let the frittata rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting. It pairs beautifully with a side salad, avocado slices, or fresh juice. It's also great cold—perfect for meal prep or packed lunches.

Plantain Frittata has grown in popularity among Nigerians abroad because it combines accessible ingredients with a familiar flavor palette. Ripe plantains are available in most ethnic or Afro-Caribbean stores, and the dish itself is forgiving and customizable. It also bridges cultures: it’s Nigerian at heart but continental in execution something every diasporan can relate to.

Whether you're in London, Toronto, Houston, or Berlin, this dish brings a bit of home to your kitchen. And with its visual appeal and rich flavor, it's a reminder that Nigerian cuisine can be both traditional and globally sophisticated.