Fried plantains are a delightful treat that brings out the natural sweetness of ripe plantains. This simple dish is a staple in many cuisines, from the Caribbean to West Africa and Latin America.
The crispy edges and soft, caramelized centers make them irresistible. Below is my personal favorite way to prepare fried plantains, along with tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time.
1. Best Fried Plantains Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ripe plantains
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or coconut oil, for frying)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Peel the plantains: Cut off both ends of the plantain. Slice through the skin lengthwise and peel it away from the flesh.
Slice the plantains: Slice the peeled plantains diagonally into ½-inch thick slices. The diagonal cut creates more surface area for caramelization when frying.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about ¼ cup of vegetable oil (or coconut oil) over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. To test if it’s ready, carefully place a small piece of plantain into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
Step 3: Fry the Plantains
Fry the plantain slices: Carefully place the plantain slices into the hot oil in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will reduce the crispiness. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the plantains are golden brown and caramelized.
Flip and finish cooking: Flip the plantain slices using tongs or a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. The plantains should be soft in the center and slightly crispy around the edges.
Step 4: Remove and Drain
Drain the plantains: Once the plantains are golden brown and caramelized, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Season with salt (optional): Lightly sprinkle a pinch of salt over the fried plantains while they’re still hot. This step is optional but helps to balance the sweetness.
Step 5: Serve
Fried plantains are best served warm, either as a side dish or a snack. They pair wonderfully with Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, or rice and peas.
2. Tips for Perfect Fried Plantains
Use the Right Ripeness
The best plantains for frying are those that are ripe but not overly soft. A plantain with mostly yellow skin, with some black spots, will give you the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
Ensure the Oil is Hot Enough
The oil should be hot enough to fry the plantains but not smoking. If the oil is too cold, the plantains will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Fry the plantains in small batches. If you overcrowd the pan, the plantains will stick together and won’t fry evenly. Give each slice some space to cook to its full crispy potential.
Control the Texture
If you want them extra crispy, thinner slices work best. Thicker slices will give you a slightly softer interior with a crispy exterior.
3. How to Enjoy Fried Plantains
Fried plantains are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a number of ways. Here are a few ideas for pairing or serving them:
As a Side Dish
Fried plantains are a fantastic side dish to complement rice, beans, meats, or stews. The sweetness of the plantains pairs perfectly with savory or spicy main dishes.
With Dips
Enjoy fried plantains with a dip like guacamole, salsa, or a yogurt-based dip. The creamy or tangy flavors of the dip balance out the crispy sweetness of the plantains.
For Breakfast
In some cultures, fried plantains are a breakfast staple, served alongside eggs, avocado, and a protein like sausage or bacon. The sweet-savory combination makes for a satisfying and filling breakfast.
As a Snack or Appetizer
Fried plantains can be eaten on their own as a snack or appetizer. They’re perfect for dipping or just munching on as a crunchy, flavorful treat.
As a Dessert
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try adding a drizzle of honey, cinnamon, or brown sugar to your fried plantains for a delicious dessert. It’s like a tropical version of caramelized bananas.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing: Store leftover fried plantains in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the plantains in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Fried plantains are a simple yet delicious side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and Caribbean flavor to any meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a plate of perfectly caramelized, golden-brown plantains that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
