Experience the delightful taste of Traditional Fried Plantains, a beloved dish that adds a touch of tropical sweetness to your meals. As a Jamaican, I grew up enjoying these crispy, golden treats, which have been a staple in my family for generations. Made with ripe plantains, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a snack or savory side dish that's perfect for any occasion. The natural sweetness of the plantains caramelizes beautifully when fried, creating a crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the tender, creamy interior. A sprinkle of salt enhances their flavor, making them hard to resist. Serve these delicious plantains warm, paired with your favorite dips or alongside grilled meats for a truly authentic experience. Whether at a family gathering or as a special treat, these fried plantains are sure to become a cherished favorite!
Traditional Fried Plantains
Ingredients
2 Ripe Plantains (yellow with some black spots for sweetness)
Vegetable Oil (for frying)
Salt (to taste)
Instructions
Peel the plantains by cutting off the ends and making a slit down the side. Carefully remove the peel. Cut the plantains into thick slices, about 1-1.5 inches thick.
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about ½ inch deep) over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the thick slices of plantains and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and slightly softened.
Remove the fried plantain slices from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
While still warm, use a flat surface (like a plate or a cutting board) to press down on each slice to flatten them gently to about ½ inch thick.
Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil in the skillet. Fry them again for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove them from the oil and place them back on the paper towels to drain excess oil.
Sprinkle with salt while they’re still hot. Enjoy your crunchy fried plantains as a snack or side dish!
Tips for Crunchy Plantains:
Choose ripe plantains with some black spots for a balance of sweetness and crunch.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the plantains; this helps them fry quickly and become crispy.
Fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
Baked Plantains
Ingredients
2 Ripe Plantains (yellow with some black spots for sweetness)
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil (or coconut oil)
1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
Optional: Spices (cinnamon, paprika, or chili powder) for added flavor
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Peel the plantains by cutting off the ends and making a slit down the side of each plantain. Gently remove the peel.
Cut the plantains into diagonal slices, about ½ inch thick. You can also cut them into halves or quarters for larger pieces.
In a mixing bowl, toss the plantain slices with olive oil and salt. If you like, add spices such as cinnamon for a sweet twist or paprika/chili powder for a savory kick.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned plantain slices in a single layer on the sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Bake until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as a snack, side dish, or addition to salads!
Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley after baking.
Serve with a dipping sauce (I have some on this website), such as a spicy mayo or a tangy avocado dip, for added enjoyment!
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