USUALLY AT this time of the year, we’d be looking forward to a Bank Holiday that would bring with it Notting Hill Carnival on the streets of west London.

Unfortunately, due to the pandemic the carnival won’t be going ahead in its traditional manner. So, I have created carnival-inspired recipes for you to try at home for the month of August – let’s keep that carnival spirit going!

To kick it all off, here’s the first one: plantain chips and dips! Lots of us like a cheeky beverage and something to nibble and this is suitable for the party-snack vibes.

Each of these elements are really easy to make and can be enjoyed all year round. They can also be good accompaniments to other dishes.

Also, if you don’t have any plantain these dips are brilliant with crisps, tortilla chips and bread.

Plantain Chips

Ingredients

• 2 green plantains
• Salt
• Vegetable oil

Method

1. On a chopping board remove the plantain skin and cut into thin slices.
2. In a frying pan add a generous serving of vegetable oil so that the plantain is completely covered when cooking.
3. Fry on a medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes (or until golden brown) stirring the plantains occasionally.
4. Once taken off the heat leave on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil (before transferring to serving dish) and season with a pinch of salt.

Black Bean Dip

Ingredients

• 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 clove of fresh garlic
• 1/2tsp cumin
• 3tbsp water
• 3tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1 small red onion, roughly chopped
• 1/2tsp dried coriander
• 1/4tsp cayenne pepper
• 1tbsp fresh lime juice

Method

1. In a blender, mix the onion, garlic and water until combined.
2. Add all remaining ingredients and blend into a smooth paste.
3. Serve in a bowl with some plantain chips.

Broad Bean Dip

Ingredients

• 1 can (300g) of broad beans, drained and rinsed
• 3tbsp natural yogurt
• 1 sprig (6 small leaves) of mint
• 1tsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Method

1. In a blender, add the broad beans, yogurt, mint, oil, salt and pepper and blend into a smooth paste.
2. Transfer to a bowl and enjoy.

Harissa Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

• 1tsp harissa paste
• 3tbsp natural yogurt
• Squeeze of lime juice
• Salt

Method

1. In a bowl, mix the harissa, yogurt, lime and a season with salt.

For more recipes visit www.isaporidelmondo.wordpress.com or follow Carla on Instagram @isaporidelmondo