A brief history of plantains and how to enjoy the sweet and savory sides of this versatile fruit

Google is not your friend when searching for "authentic" plantain recipes and reliable information. But your retired Spanish-teacher mom and Colombian exchange sister definitely rank at the top of the helpful list. As well as a host of recently and not-so-recently published cookbooks showcasing cuisines where plantains are a staple: the Caribbean, Latin America and West Africa.

According to a timeline at Encyclopedia.com (arkansasonline.com/531plantainhistory), plantains originated in Southeast Asia -- primarily Papua New Guinea and Malaysia -- and made their way first to Madagascar around the sixth century, then to the Canary Islands around the 14th century.

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