Ripe plantains, which range from a deep yellow to a black color, are sweeter and more intense than ripe bananas. So when baking, it’s not necessary to use additional sweeteners. For an extra treat, try adding some nuts or chocolate chips.

This super easy noodle recipe is the perfect example of how a few well-placed garnishes can take a dish to another level. The crushed peanuts add textural diversity, the lime a splash of brightness that pairs really well with the spicier elements of the dish, and the Thai basil an aromatic freshness.

Enchiladas are essentially baked burritos—rolled tortillas filled with savory, tasty fillings, then baked with salsa. The cumin and coriander in this dish pair really well to give the enchiladas a warm, savory flavor and a great aroma.

The classic combination of spices in this hot chocolate brings out a depth of flavor that balances between bitter, earthy, and slightly sweet notes. Perfect for a winter day, especially when you’re snowed in and trying to get cozy by the fireplace!

Roasting tomatoes is a great way to bring out their flavors, including the sweetness, in a way that’s different from raw tomatoes.

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, and it comes together really quickly, even if you make your own baked chips (see tips below).

Compared to other dried beans, lentils cook quickly and easily. They work well in stuffings and loaves. I especially like them with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and oregano. To make a heartier stuffing, I like to use whole grain bread crumbs.

When I’m in the Dominican Republic, this is one of my favorite stews to make. Chapea tastes different in each house-some like it with chayote squash instead of butternut squash (pumpkin); others add broccoli or green plantains and skip the carrots.

This soup brings together several vivid and dynamic flavors. The pineapple will remind you of tropical destinations, and the lime adds that touch of acidity, but there’s also a more mild sweetness to support and balance them out.