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Plantains

It’s not a banana
it’s way too small.
Sometimes green not yellow
or almost curved like a ball.

It’s much sweeter then its cousin,
but when baked it’s a gem.
An appetizer or side;
no a dessert either of them.

The Cubans adopted it
yet loved by Bahamians too.
I’ve never been able to eat just one,
but three or four and maybe two.
 
It’s a flexible delight
who has a mate with black beans and rice,
or a Caribbean fave
with flying fish oh so nice.

I’ve had it with eggs.
Yes with breakfast I say.
Whenever you consume it
do so without delay,

because it’s best when hot.
Don’t let it cool.
Unlike the banana
it ain’t good cold so don’t be fooled.

I just love the plantain
with whatever is around.
I wish I were with that local
when it was found.

What a treat
that must have been
to be the first to try one;
must’ve created a din.

So peel this puppy
and grill it with joy.
Just don’t forget to
invite over this boy!

(Named) Doug Heyman
Key West
February 2005