Delicious Homemade Platanutres: A Dominican Snack Delight

Ingredients

  • 4 Green Plantains
  • 4 cups of Vegetable Oil
  • 1 tablespoon of Salt
  • 1 tablespoon of Garlic Powder (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Peel the plantains and slice them into thin rounds.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the plantain slices to the hot oil, making sure they are not crowded. Fry them until they turn golden on each side. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. Remove the fried plantains from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  5. While the plantains are still hot, sprinkle with salt and, if desired, garlic powder.
  6. Allow them to cool before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Sweet Plantain: Use ripe plantains instead of green plantains for a sweeter flavor.
  • Spicy Plantain: Sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper on the fried plantains for a spicy kick.
  • Seasoned Plantain: Experiment with different seasonings such as paprika, cumin, or onion powder.
  • Cheesy Plantain: Sprinkle grated cheese over the fried plantains and melt it under the broiler for a cheesy twist.
  • Dipping Sauces: Serve the fried plantains with various dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or aioli.
  • Plantain Chips: Instead of frying the plantains in rounds, slice them into thin strips and fry them for crispy plantain chips.
  • Baked Plantains: For a healthier alternative, bake the plantain slices in the oven until crispy.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the crisp and savory flavors of Platanutres, a popular snack from the Caribbean. Made from thin slices of green plantains, these chips are deep-fried to golden perfection and sprinkled with salt, and optionally, garlic powder for an extra kick. This recipe is straightforward and quick, transforming humble plantains into a delicious snack that will leave you wanting more. Expect a crunchy texture and a unique taste that's a delightful combination of salty and slightly sweet – the perfect treat for any time of the day.

Common questions

  1. How do I know when the plantains are ripe enough to use for this recipe? Choose plantains that are yellow with black spots on the skin. They should be firm to the touch, similar to a ripe banana.
  2. Can I use ripe (sweet) plantains instead of green plantains? No, for this recipe it is important to use green (unripe) plantains as they have a starchy texture that is essential for achieving the desired crispiness.
  3. Do I have to use vegetable oil for frying? Vegetable oil is recommended for frying plantains due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. However, you can use other oils with high smoke points, such as canola or sunflower oil, if desired.
  4. Can I add other seasonings to the fried plantains? While the recipe calls for salt and optional garlic powder, you can experiment with other seasonings like chili powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
  5. How long do the fried plantains stay crispy? Fried plantains are best enjoyed immediately after frying while they are still hot and crispy. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheating them in the oven for a few minutes can help restore some of their crispiness.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Platanutres, also known as plantain chips, are a popular snack in many Latin American countries, but they have a special place in the culinary tradition of Puerto Rico. Historically, plantains have been a staple crop across the Caribbean and Central America due to their adaptability to the tropical climate. As a result, they were creatively incorporated into numerous local dishes. Platanutres are known for their simple yet satisfying flavor profile, combining the starchy base of plantains with the sharp tang of salt and, often, a hint of garlic. This humble snack carries with it the warmth of the Caribbean sun and the rhythm of Puerto Rican life, a testament to the island's inventive and resourceful spirit.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.