Fried Plantains

Fried plantains are a delightful and versatile dish that can elevate any meal or serve as a fabulous snack. Their sweet, caramelized exterior combined with a creamy interior makes them a favorite in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish, topping them with savory accompaniments, or indulging in them as a snack, fried plantains are sure to please. This simple recipe will guide you through the process of making perfect fried plantains that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Top Reasons to Make Fried Plantains

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, fried plantains are incredibly easy to whip up.
• Versatile: They can be enjoyed as a side dish, snack, or even a dessert depending on how you prepare them.
• Flavorful: The natural sweetness of ripe plantains combined with a sprinkle of sea salt creates a delicious contrast that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Nutritious: Plantains are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy choice for any meal.
• Great for Sharing: Fried plantains are perfect for gatherings, bringing friends and family together to enjoy a delicious dish.

The Essentials

To make the best fried plantains, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 large ripe plantains: Look for plantains that are yellow with black spots for the best sweetness and flavor.
• 1/2 cup avocado oil: This oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it perfect for frying.
• Sea salt: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavor of the fried plantains.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Sharp knife: For slicing the plantains into even pieces.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for cutting the plantains.
• Skillet or frying pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even frying.
• Slotted spoon: To remove the fried plantains from the oil.
• Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Fried Plantains: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Plantains

Start by peeling the plantains. Cut off both ends of each plantain, then make a lengthwise slit in the skin. Carefully remove the skin, ensuring you don’t damage the fruit.

Step 2: Slice the Plantains

Slice the peeled plantains into 1-inch thick pieces. Make sure the slices are uniform to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, pour in 1/2 cup of avocado oil and heat it over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking. A simple test is to drop a small piece of plantain into the oil; it should sizzle upon contact.

Step 4: Fry the Plantains

Carefully add the sliced plantains to the hot oil in a single layer. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; you can fry in batches if needed.

Step 5: Drain and Season

Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the plantains to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. While they are still hot, sprinkle them with a pinch of sea salt.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Fried plantains are best enjoyed warm. Serve them as a side dish, snack, or incorporate them into your favorite meals.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• Spicy Plantains: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder before frying for a spicy kick.
• Sweet Cinnamon Plantains: After frying, toss them with a bit of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
• Plantain Chips: Slice the plantains thinner and fry until crispy to create delicious plantain chips.
• Savory Plantain Dish: Top fried plantains with black beans, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a hearty meal.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While frying plantains is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Burning: If the oil is too hot, the plantains can burn quickly. Adjust the heat as necessary.
• Soggy Plantains: If the oil is not hot enough, the plantains will absorb too much oil. Make sure the oil is sizzling before adding the plantains.
• Uneven Cooking: Ensure that the plantain slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking.

Save It for Later

If you have leftover fried plantains, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes to regain their crispiness. However, fried plantains are best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate taste experience.

Quick Q&A

Can I use green plantains for this recipe?

Yes, you can use green plantains, but they will be less sweet and have a firmer texture. They are typically used for savory dishes and will require longer cooking times.

What can I serve with fried plantains?

Fried plantains pair wonderfully with various dishes such as rice and beans, grilled meats, or even as a topping on salads. They can also be enjoyed with dipping sauces like guacamole or spicy salsa.

How do I know when the plantains are ripe?

Ripe plantains will have a yellow skin with dark spots. The more spots, the sweeter the plantain will be. Avoid plantains that are entirely green or overly soft.

Can I freeze fried plantains?

While it’s possible to freeze fried plantains, they may lose some of their texture and crispiness upon reheating. It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but if you do freeze them, ensure they are well sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Sally’s Banana Bread
• Creamy Garlic Pasta from Pinch of Yum
• Vegan Banana Ice Cream from Minimalist Baker
• Chocolate Chip Cookies from Sally’s Baking Addiction

In Closing

Fried plantains are a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Their sweet flavor, crispy texture, and versatility make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you are enjoying them as part of a main dish or as a standalone snack, fried plantains offer an impressive and delicious way to embrace this tropical fruit.

So, gather your ingredients, heat that oil, and get ready to indulge in the exquisite taste of fried plantains!