Fried Sweet Plantains, also known as plátanos maduros fritos, are a beloved dish in many Latin American and Caribbean cuisines. The plantains are allowed to ripen until their skins turn black, bringing out their natural sweetness, before being sliced and fried to golden perfection. Their crispy edges and soft, caramelized interior make them the perfect side dish for savory meals, or a sweet snack on their own. With just a hint of oil and salt, fried sweet plantains are simple to make, yet bursting with flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe plantains (the riper, the better—mostly black with some yellow spots)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the plantains: Peel the plantains by slicing off the ends and cutting a slit down the length of the skin. Remove the peel and slice the plantains diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, about 1/4 inch deep.
- Fry the plantains: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the plantain slices to the pan in a single layer. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and caramelized.
- Drain and season: Remove the fried plantains from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt if desired.
- Serve: Serve the fried sweet plantains immediately, either as a side dish with rice and beans, grilled meats, or simply as a sweet treat on their own.
Fried Sweet Plantains are a deliciously sweet and satisfying dish, perfect for adding a touch of caramelized goodness to any meal.
