Jamaican Fried Plantains

Name: Jamaican Fried Plantains
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe plantains; Oil for frying (coconut oil or vegetable oil); Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love Jamaican fried plantains! They’re sweet, crispy, and perfect as a side dish or snack. Whenever I prepare them, I enjoy the delightful contrast of the caramelized exterior against the tender inside. This recipe comes together quickly, making it an easy addition to any meal. The vibrant yellow of ripe plantains also brings a burst of color to my plate, and the aroma wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:28:06.398Z

Trying out fried plantains has been a delightful journey for me. The first time I made them, I was surprised by how simple yet satisfying they were. The combination of ripeness is crucial—using plantains that are perfectly yellow gives them just the right sweetness. I discovered that frying them in coconut oil adds a subtle flavor that really enhances the experience.

One of my favorite tips is to allow the plantains to rest briefly after frying. This allows the natural sugars to caramelize further, creating a fantastic crunch. I enjoy these plantains alongside jerk chicken or just on their own with a sprinkle of salt. They’re incredibly versatile!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly crispy exterior with a sweet, tender inside
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Delightful contrast in flavors that complement any dish
Great for snacking, parties, or as a side dish

      

Choosing the Right Plantains

Selecting the perfect ripe plantains is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your fried plantains. Look for plantains that are mostly yellow with a few dark spots, which indicates sweetness. Avoid plantains that are too green, as they will be starchy and less sweet, resulting in a less satisfying dish. Additionally, overly dark or blackened plantains may be too soft for frying but are excellent for baking or mashing if you want to experiment with other recipes.

When slicing the plantains, a sharp knife is your best friend to ensure clean cuts, which helps with even frying. If you find that the plantains are a bit too firm when cutting, try letting them sit at room temperature for a day or two. This will allow them to ripen further, yielding a softer texture that’s ideal for frying.

Frying Techniques for Perfectly Crispy Plantains

The frying temperature is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. Heat the oil to medium; too low, and the plantains will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy instead of crispy. A hot oil test can be done by dropping a small piece of plantain into the oil; if it sizzles right away, you're good to go. Frying in batches will prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.

For the best results, flip the plantains once they’re golden brown on one side. Keep an eye on them; cooking time can vary based on thickness and heat level. Cooking too long can lead to overly crunchy edges, while undercooking might leave a rubbery texture. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping carefully to maintain their shape.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make delicious Jamaican fried plantains:

Ingredients

2 ripe plantains
Oil for frying (coconut oil or vegetable oil)
Salt to taste

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to fry up some tasty plantains!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Jamaican fried plantains:

Prepare the Plantains

Peel the ripe plantains by cutting off the ends and slicing down the skin with a knife. Remove the skin and cut the plantains diagonally into slices about 1 inch thick.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan generously.

Fry the Plantains

Once the oil is hot, carefully add the plantain slices in a single layer. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Drain and Serve

Remove the fried plantains from the skillet and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle with salt and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican fried plantains as a snack or a side dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try sprinkling a bit of paprika or cayenne on your fried plantains for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican fried plantains can be served alongside a variety of dishes. They pair wonderfully with savory foods like jerk chicken or rice and beans, offering a sweet contrast that elevates the overall meal. Alternatively, they make a fantastic snack on their own or served with a spicy dipping sauce for a fun appetizer at gatherings.

For a brunch twist, serve fried plantains with eggs or as part of a breakfast burrito. Their sweetness complements both savory and spicy flavors, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Try toasting the plantains before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be mindful that reheating can diminish the crispiness. To revive their texture, consider reheating them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, allowing them to regain their delightful crunch.

For longer storage, you can freeze uncooked plantain slices. Simply slice and lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to cook, no need to thaw; they can go straight into the hot oil, though adjust frying time slightly as they will take a bit longer to cook through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green plantains instead?

Green plantains are starchy and not as sweet, but they can be fried too! Just bear in mind that they’ll need longer to cook.

→ How do I know when the plantains are ripe?

Ripe plantains should be mostly yellow with a few brown spots, indicating they are sweet and ready to be fried.

→ What type of oil is best for frying?

Coconut oil is ideal for frying plantains as it adds a subtle flavor, but vegetable oil works well too.

→ Can I store leftover fried plantains?

Yes, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet to regain some crispness.