I miss my mom deeply. There are days when the ache of her absence feels especially heavy, but I have found unexpected comfort in the kitchen. Preparing the Dominican meals she lovingly taught me has become a sacred act of remembrance. Each recipe carries her voice, her patience, and her joy.
Mangú, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. As I mash the plantains and let the steam rise, I feel closer to her—as if her hands are guiding mine once again. In these moments, cooking becomes more than nourishment; it becomes connection, gratitude, and love. I thank God for the gift of her life and for the traditions she passed on, which continue to sustain me in body and spirit.
Mangú (Dominican Mashed Plantains)
The entire meal is traditionally called, “Tres Golpes.”
Although this recipe is specific, we never really measure anything….
Ingredients:
- 4 green plantains
- Water (enough to boil)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- ½ cup warm water (reserved from boiling)
Optional Toppings (Traditional)
- Sautéed red onions (vinegar, lemon, salt)
- Fried eggs
- Fried Dominican salami (beef summer sausage for me)
- Fried cheese (Dominican cheese is hard to find on the west coast). I usually skip this part.
Instructions:
Step 1: Peel the green plantains and cut them into thirds.
Step 2: Place them in a pot with water and salt. Boil until very tender, about 20–25 minutes.
Step 3: Reserve about ½ cup of the hot cooking water, then drain the plantains.
Step 4: Mash the plantains while hot, adding butter or olive oil and a little of the reserved water until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Serve warm, topped with sautéed onions and your favorite accompaniments.
Mangú is traditionally served for breakfast, but for many of us, it is comfort food at any time of day—a reminder that love, like faith, is passed down and lives on through the simplest acts.
Giovanni Santos is a composer, music educator, and conductor dedicated to meaningful musical collaborations, inspiring students, and creating music that connects culture, community, and heart.