Coconut Crab Dip With Plantain Chips

This recipe is a great snack to have when watching the Super Bowl Game this weekend. I know you have gone beyond the same old beer and pretzels and look how surprised and happy your friends will be when you bring this out.

Plantain Chips

• 1 tsp. fine sea salt
• 1/4 tsp. chili powder
• Crisco Oil for frying
• 4 green plantains (about 1 1/2 lbs.)

In a small bowl combine the salt and chili powder and set aside. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large deep pot over medium heat until 375 degrees shows on a deep fry thermometer. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and set aside.

Peel the plantains and with a vegetable peeler, slice lengthwise. Fry the slices about 4 or 5 at a time, turning frequently until they become golden. (about 35-40 seconds). Transfer to the baking sheet and repeat until all are cooked.

If making ahead, store in an airtight container at room temperature for no more than 2 days.

Crab Dip

• 1/2 cup shredded coconut, divided
• 3/4 cup hot water
• 1 green onion, trimmed and chopped fine
• 1 Thai chili, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 tbsp. lime juice (fresh)
• 3 tins Ocean’s Crabmeat (Costco has 5 in a pkg.)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves
• 3 tbsp. chopped mango for garnish
• lime wedges
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Scatter the coconut over a baking sheet and toast, stirring often until lightly browned and fragrant (3-4 minutes). Set aside.

In a blender add remaining 1/2 cup coconut and the hot water. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes. Blend on high for 2 minutes until mixture is a smooth thick puree. Add the onion and chili and blend another minute.

In a medium size bowl stir together the mayonnaise, cream cheese and lime juice until smooth. Add the coconut mixture and stir until well combined. Fold in the crabmeat and cilantro. Taste then season with salt and pepper.

To serve transfer dip to a bowl and garnish with the toasted coconut, mango and lime wedges. Serve with the plantain chips (standing up in a glass for show).

If drinking wine, a Sav. Blanc would be perfect. Ice cold Corona with lime would be excellent as well.