Fried Sweet Plantains
Fried Sweet Plantains are a delicious addition to any African or Latin meal, serving as a delightful side dish or a tasty snack on their own. They are crispy, soft, and pair perfectly with rice and beans, stews, or even as a substitute for tostadas!
Making these sweet fried plantains is a breeze – you don’t need any fancy ingredients or cooking techniques. It’s so easy, you could whip them up with your eyes shut!
Plantains vs Bananas
Plantains and bananas are part of the same family, but they have their own unique characteristics. Plantains have higher starch content and lower sugar content compared to bananas.
While both green bananas and plantains have a subtle taste, they are commonly used as starchy vegetables in savory dishes. Plantains, also known as cooking bananas, are typically utilized more as a vegetable than regular bananas.
Bananas are usually enjoyed fresh once they ripen, boasting a sweeter taste compared to plantains. Their skins are thinner, and you can tell they’re ready to eat when they sport a lovely yellow hue.
Plantains, on the other hand, have tougher skins and a longer shelf life. Surprisingly, a black plantain is not overripe. Unlike a black banana, a black plantain is actually perfectly ripe. Additionally, plantains contain higher levels of vitamins C, A, and potassium than bananas.
How to Fry Sweet Plantains ?
Don’t stress out! Keep it simple with these delicious fried plantains. They’re the perfect side dish or snack to enjoy with your favorite savory meal. Have fun!
- Slit : Start by trimming the ends of the plantain with a sharp knife to make peeling easier. Then, make a shallow cut along the length of the plantain. (Photo 1)
- Cut Diagonally : Next, slice the plantains diagonally into medium-sized pieces and set them aside. (Photos 2-3) You can also opt for smaller cuts if you prefer. (Photo 4)
- Heat Oil : Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop in a slice of plantain; it should bubble immediately. If it doesn’t, let it heat for another minute or two. If the oil is too hot, take it off the heat for about 2 minutes before continuing.
- Fry : Fry the plantains in batches until they turn a lovely golden brown, flipping them once. Each side should take about 2-3 minutes. Keep cooking, turning them occasionally, until they are soft and a deep golden brown, which should take around 5-7 minutes. (Photos 5-7)
- Transfer : Once done, use a slotted spoon to carefully lift the fried plantains and place them on a plate or tray lined with paper towels.
- Season : Sprinkle with salt (and cinnamon sugar if you like) and enjoy while they’re hot!
What Goes Well With Fried Sweet Plantains
Pretty much everything! Rice is a staple, and many meat dishes pair wonderfully with sweet fried plantains. My top choice is jollof rice served with either chicken stew or Asun, which is a deliciously spicy roasted goat.
- Prep Time5 min
- Cook Time7 min
- Total Time12 min
- Serving Size4
- Energy31,000 cal
Ingredients
- 2-3 rip plantains
- Vegetable oil as needed
- Salt to taste
Instructions
With a sharp knife, trim the ends of the plantains. This will help in peeling the skin off easily. Make a shallow cut along the length of the plantain.
Tips & Notes:
How to Peel Plantains
- Let them sit at room temperature – If they’re in the fridge, take them out and allow them to reach room temperature. Alternatively, you can soak them in warm water for a few minutes to soften the peels.
- Cut off both ends to make peeling easier.
- Do you need it whole? Use a knife to slice the plantain skin deep along its entire length. Be careful to only cut the peel, not the flesh!
- Don’t need it whole? Cut the plantain in half crosswise, then slice the peel with the grain. Be sure to avoid cutting into the flesh of the plantain, just the peel!
- Remove the peel – Use a knife to gently separate the peel from the flesh. If the plantain is almost ripe, this will be easier. You might even be able to peel it with your fingers. If it’s still green, you’ll need to carefully cut the peel off.
- If you’d rather use a deep-fryer, go ahead and do so!
- Serving Size4
- Amount per serving
- Calories31,000
- % Daily Value*Standard DV
- Total Fat3 g72 g4.17%
- Saturated Fat1 g20 g5%
- Trans Fat0.02 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat2 g
- Monounsaturated Fat1 g
- Sodium291 mg2300 mg12.65%
- Total Carbohydrate0.2 g275 g0.07%
- Dietary Fiber0.01 g28 g0.04%
- Total Sugars0.1 g
- Protein0.01 g50 g0.02%
- Calcium0.2 mg1300 mg0.02%
- Potassium2 mg4700 mg0.04%
- Vitamin A6 mcg900 mcg0.67%
- Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)0.1 mg90 mg0.11%
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