Fried Sweet Plantains
Fried sweet plantains are a beloved dish across the Caribbean, Latin America, and Africa. With their caramelized edges and soft, sweet centers, they make the perfect side dish or snack. Whether served alongside savory stews, rice dishes, or enjoyed on their own, fried plantains are an easy and delicious treat that you can make at home in just a few steps.
What Are Plantains?
Plantains are a starchy fruit related to bananas but are typically larger and require cooking before eating. They can be used at various stages of ripeness, with green plantains being firm and starchy, is perfect for plantain fries or tostones while ripe plantains are soft and sweet, which is perfect for frying.
Recipes using Plantains
- Plantain Chips
- Aranitas(shredded and fried green plantains)
- Garlic Plantain
- Metemgee
Ingredients for Fried Sweet Plantains
- ripe plantains: yellow with black spots for the best sweetness
- vegetable oil or any neutral frying oil
- A pinch of salt (optional)
How to Make Fried Sweet Plantains
- Prepare the Plantains – Peel the plantains by cutting off both ends, then making a shallow slit along the skin to remove it easily. Slice the plantains diagonally or into rounds, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat the Oil – In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry the Plantains – Carefully place the slices in the pan in a single layer. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and caramelized.
- Drain and Season – Remove the plantains from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve warm as a side dish, snack, or complement to dishes like rice and beans, stews, or grilled meats.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe plantains – The darker the skin, the sweeter the plantain. Yellow plantains with black spots yield the best flavor.
- Control the heat – Medium heat prevents burning while allowing the plantains to caramelize perfectly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches for even cooking and crisp edges.
What to Serve with it
Fried plantains pair well with Caribbean favorites like jerk chicken, Jamaican oxtail stew, rice and peas, or a simple garlic dipping sauce. They also make a great addition to breakfast with eggs and avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I fry green plantains? A: Yes, but they will be firmer and less sweet. These are often used for tostones or plantain fries which require double frying.
Q: How do I store leftover fried plantains? A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for the best texture.
Q: Can I air-fry plantains instead? A: Yes! Lightly coat the slices with oil and air-fry at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Get the Recipe Fried Sweet Plantains
Ingredients
- 2 yellow plantain with black spots
- vegetable oil for frying
- pinch of salt(optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Plantains: Peel the plantains by cutting off both ends, then making a shallow slit along the skin to remove it easily. Slice the plantains diagonally or into rounds, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry the Plantains: Carefully place the slices in the pan in a single layer. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and caramelized.
- Drain and Season: Remove the plantains from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt if desired.