Name: Sweet Fried Plantains
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 2 ripe plantains (yellow with black spots); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter; 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional); ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe

Sweet fried plantains are a deliciously caramelized treat popular in Caribbean, African, and Latin American cuisines. Crispy on the outside, tender and sweet inside, they make a perfect side dish or snack that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Preparation: Only requires a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Versatile Dish: Complements both sweet and savory dishes.
Kid-Friendly: A naturally sweet, nutritious treat for all ages.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ripe plantains (yellow with black spots)
Vegetable oil (or preferred frying oil)
Salt (optional)
Brown sugar or cinnamon (optional)

Directions

Prepare Plantains:
Peel plantains and slice diagonally into ½-inch thick slices.
Heat Oil:
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
Fry Plantains:
Place plantain slices into the skillet in a single layer. Fry until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Drain:
Remove plantains from oil and place onto paper towels to drain excess oil.
Season and Serve:
Sprinkle lightly with salt or dust with brown sugar and cinnamon if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Savory Twist: Sprinkle with sea salt and chili flakes.
Baked Plantains: Oven-bake for a healthier alternative.
Spiced Plantains: Add spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or quickly pan-fry again to crisp them up.

FAQs

How ripe should the plantains be?

Plantains should be ripe—yellow with black spots—for optimal sweetness.

Can plantains be eaten raw?

Plantains are best cooked, as raw plantains have a starchy taste.

Are fried plantains healthy?

In moderation, plantains provide dietary fiber and essential vitamins, though frying adds calories.

Can I use bananas instead?

Bananas can be fried similarly but have a softer texture and sweeter flavor.

How can I prevent plantains from sticking to the pan?

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying, and use a non-stick skillet.

Can I use olive oil to fry plantains?

Light olive oil can be used, but neutral oils (vegetable or canola oil) are better.

Why are my plantains soggy?

Your oil might not be hot enough, or they were overcrowded during frying.

Can I freeze fried plantains?

Yes, place cooled plantains in an airtight container and freeze for up to a month.

What can I serve with fried plantains?

Fried plantains pair well with rice dishes, grilled meats, beans, or eaten alone as a snack.

How can I tell when plantains are done frying?

Plantains are done when golden brown and crisp on the outside.

Conclusion

Sweet fried plantains are an easy-to-make treat that’s both delicious and versatile. Their sweet, caramelized flavor pairs well with many dishes, making them a wonderful addition to your recipe collection.