Fried plantains are a popular snack or side dish in many Latin American, Caribbean, and African countries. Plantains look like bananas, but they are larger and starchier, which makes them perfect for frying.
The outer skin of the plantain is green when it is unripe, yellow when it is ripe, and black when it is very ripe. The more ripe the plantain, the sweeter it will be. Fried plantains are easy to make and are delicious served with salt, cheese, or even honey.
Why This Recipe Works
This fried plantains recipe is easy to follow and perfect for beginners. The dish is made from ripe plantains that have a natural sweetness, which pairs well with the savory flavors from frying. Additionally, plantains are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, making this dish not only delicious but nutritious as well.
Another reason to make this recipe is its adaptability. Fried plantains can be served with a variety of sauces and toppings, allowing you to customize the dish to your taste preferences. Plus, you can easily adjust the recipe to make it vegan or gluten-free if needed.
Ingredients
Ripe plantains - sweet and starchy, perfect for frying; substitute with green bananas for a less sweet option
Vegetable oil - for frying; you can use coconut oil or palm oil for a different flavor
Salt - enhances the natural flavors of the plantains; use sea salt or kosher salt for a gourmet touch
Lime (optional) - adds a zesty freshness to the dish; substitute with lemon if desired
Fresh cilantro (optional) - provides a pop of color and freshness; substitute with parsley for a milder flavor
Tips
- Choose ripe plantains with yellow skin and black spots for the best flavor and texture.
- Fry the plantains in small batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning the plantains.
- Drain the fried plantains on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Experiment with different toppings and sauces for a unique twist on this classic dish.
How to Serve
Fried plantains are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, depending on your preferences and the occasion. They're perfect for sharing with friends and family, and their naturally sweet and savory flavors make them a crowd-pleaser.
- Serve as a side dish with rice and beans for a traditional Caribbean or Latin American meal.
- Offer as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, such as garlic aioli or a spicy pepper sauce.
- Incorporate into a taco or wrap with your favorite protein, veggies, and condiments.
Similar Recipes
Fried Plantains
Ingredients
- 3 ripe plantains
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
- Lime wedges optional
- Fresh cilantro optional
Instructions
- Peel the plantains and cut them into ½-inch thick slices.
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the plantain slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the plantains from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain.
- Sprinkle the fried plantains with salt to taste, and serve with lime wedges and fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- Choose ripe plantains with yellow skin and black spots for the best flavor and texture.
- Fry the plantains in small batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning the plantains.
- Drain the fried plantains on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Experiment with different toppings and sauces for a unique twist on this classi