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Fried sweet plantains caramelized until golden and tender

Fried Sweet Plantains (Plátanos Maduros)

These fried sweet plantains are perfectly caramelized on the outside and soft and tender inside. Made with just ripe plantains and oil, this classic pan-fried method delivers authentic flavor found across Caribbean, Latin, and African cuisines.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: African, Caribbean, Cuban, East African, Jamaican, Latin American, Mexican
Calories: 165
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Equipment

  • Large skillet: used to evenly fry the plantain slices and allow proper caramelization without overcrowding
  • Sharp knife: for peeling and slicing the plantains cleanly
  • cutting board provides a stable surface for prep
  • Tongs or spatula: for flipping the plantains without breaking them
  • Paper towels: used to drain excess oil after frying

Method
 

  1. Peel the ripe plantains and slice on a slight diagonal into ½-inch thick pieces.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the plantain slices in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, flipping once, until deeply golden and caramelized.
  4. Transfer the fried plantains to a paper towel-lined plate. Season lightly with salt if desired. Serve warm.

Video

Notes

  • Ripeness matters: The best fried sweet plantains are made with very ripe plantains. Green or lightly yellow plantains will not caramelize properly.
  • Oil temperature: Medium heat is ideal. Oil that is too hot will burn the sugars before the plantains soften.
  • Make ahead: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated gently in a skillet over low heat.
  • Serving ideas: Serve alongside Cuban picadillo, Jamaican jerk chicken, Mexican beans and rice, or West African stews.
  • Sweet variation: Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon sugar after frying for a dessert-style option.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings): 165 calories, 7g fat, 27g carbs, 1g protein, 3g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.