Traditional Plátanos Fritos (Fried Sweet Plantains) Recipe

Ingredients

4 ripe plantains
1 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt
Optional: 2 tablespoons sugar for a sweet version

Steps and instructions

Peel the plantains. To do this, cut off both ends of each plantain. Make a shallow cut in the skin along the length of the plantain. Don't cut too deep into the flesh. Peel off the skin.
Cut the plantains into 1/2 inch thick slices.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil. Fry them until they are golden brown on one side, about 2-3 minutes.
Flip the plantain slices over and fry them on the other side until they are golden brown and crispy, another 2-3 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the plantains from the oil. Drain them on paper towels.
Sprinkle the plantains with salt while they are still hot. If you're making the sweet version, sprinkle them with sugar instead of salt.
Serve the plantains while they are still warm.

Tools for making

Cutting board - Used for safely cutting and preparing the plantains.
Knife - Needed to peel the plantains and slice them into desired thickness.
Large skillet - Used for frying the plantains in hot oil.
Slotted spoon - Essential for removing the fried plantains from the oil.
Paper towels - Used for draining the excess oil from the fried plantains.

Recipe variations

Adding cinnamon and nutmeg to the salt/sugar for a spiced version
Dipping the fried plantains in chocolate sauce or caramel sauce
Serving the fried plantains with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Sprinkling the fried plantains with powdered sugar
Drizzling honey or maple syrup on top of the fried plantains
Combining the fried plantains with savory toppings like shredded cheese or guacamole
Using coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for frying
Adding a squeeze of lime juice on top of the fried plantains
Coating the plantain slices with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese before frying

Recipe overview

Savor a taste of Latin America with this simple yet delicious Plátanos Fritos recipe. Plátanos Fritos, or fried plantains, are a popular side dish in many Latin American countries. They're sweet, salty, and satisfyingly crispy. This recipe walks you through how to choose ripe plantains, how to cut and fry them, and how to season them for maximum flavor. Whether you're looking for a new side dish to try or you're exploring Latin American cuisine, you'll love the simplicity and taste of these Plátanos Fritos. Enjoy them as a snack, a side dish, or even as a dessert. Get ready to enjoy one of the most irresistible and easy-to-make dishes from Latin America.

Common questions

Can I use unripe plantains? Yes, you can use unripe plantains for a firmer texture and less sweetness.
Is it necessary to use vegetable oil? Vegetable oil is recommended for frying as it has a high smoke point, but you can use other oils if desired.
How do I know when the plantains are ripe? Ripe plantains will have yellow skin with some black or brown spots. They should feel slightly soft to the touch.
Can I make this recipe without frying? Frying the plantains gives them a crispy texture, but you can also bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative.
Can I add spices or seasonings? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices to enhance the flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time? While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can make them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes.
Can I freeze leftover fried plantains? Yes, you can freeze the cooked plantains in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Skillet - A large skillet is needed for frying the plantains.
Slotted spoon - This utensil is useful for removing the fried plantains from the hot oil.
Paper towels - These are needed for draining the excess oil from the fried plantains.

Origin stories

Plátanos fritos, or fried plantains, are a staple in many Latin American and Caribbean countries. These sweet and savory treats made their way into the diet of these regions through African influence. Plantains were brought to the Caribbean and Latin America through the Columbian Exchange, a period of cultural and biological exchanges between the New and Old Worlds, that included the transfer of plants like plantains from Africa. Today, these delicious golden slices can be found accompanying almost any dish, from rice and beans to grilled meats, adding a touch of sweetness to balance out flavors. Despite its simplicity, the versatility of plátanos fritos showcases the resourcefulness and creativity of Latin American and Caribbean cuisine.

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.