Fried Ripe Sweet Plantains
Golden, caramelized slices of ripe plantain fried until crisp at the edges and tender inside. Known as maduros across Latin America and the Caribbean, these sweet fried plantains are simple, naturally delicious, and perfect as a side or snack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe plantains (skins mostly black or heavily speckled)
- 1/4 cup neutral oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or coconut oil)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Select very ripe plantains—skins should be mostly black or dark yellow with black spots.
- Peel the plantains by cutting off both ends, scoring the skin lengthwise, and removing the peel.
- Slice plantains diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces for even cooking and caramelization.
- Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Test with a small piece of plantain—it should sizzle gently.
- Add plantain slices in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden brown and caramelized.
- Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring the centers cook through.
- Transfer fried plantains to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt (optional) and serve warm as a side, snack, or topping.
Notes
- Choose plantains with mostly black skins for the sweetest flavor.
- Cook on medium heat—too high will burn the sugars before the inside softens.
- For a lighter version, bake or air fry instead of deep frying.
- A sprinkle of salt balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven or skillet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/fried-ripe-sweet-plantains/
