Jamaican Fried Plantains

Name: Jamaican Fried Plantains
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 ripe plantains; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Recipes

When I first tried Jamaican Fried Plantains, I was instantly hooked. The crispy exterior and sweet, tender inside create a delightful contrast that I just couldn't resist. I love how simple and quick they are to prepare, making them a perfect side dish or snack. Each bite transports me to the lively streets of Jamaica where plantains seem to be a star attraction. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a batch that brings a taste of the tropics right to my home.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:41:34.453Z

My first encounter with Jamaican Fried Plantains was at a beachside shack during a trip to the Caribbean. I watched as the vendor sliced the plantains with precision, frying them to a perfect golden brown. This inspired me to experiment at home, and I was amazed at how easy it was to recreate that authentic taste. The secret lies in choosing the right plantains; ripe ones bring out the natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory crunch.

Through trial and error, I learned that soaking the plantains in water before frying helps achieve that crispy texture. Don’t rush the cooking process; allowing the plantains to cook gently in the oil ensures they’re soft inside while getting that necessary crunch outside. I always serve them hot, right out of the pan, for the best experience!

Why You'll Love These Fried Plantains
Sweet flavor complemented by a crispy texture
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Versatile enough to serve as a snack or a side dish

Understanding Plantains

Plantains, a staple in Caribbean cooking, differ significantly from bananas, especially in their texture and sugar content. When selecting plantains for frying, choose ones that are ripe with yellow skin and some black spots. They should yield slightly to pressure, indicating ripeness. This level of ripeness ensures a perfect balance of sweetness and starchiness, contributing to the delightful flavor profile of your fried plantains.

Unlike regular bananas, ripe plantains have a higher starch content, which caramelizes beautifully when fried, creating a crispy exterior. If you find yourself with a plantain that is overly mature, you can still use it. Just slice it thinner to ensure that it cooks evenly and achieves a pleasing texture without becoming too mushy.

Frying Tips for Perfect Plantains

When frying plantains, maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the plantains will absorb too much oil, making them greasy rather than crisp. Aim for the oil to reach 350°F (175°C) before adding your plantains. A drop of water can be a useful test; if it sizzles upon contact, the oil is ready.

Be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary, as too many pieces will lower the oil temperature. Each slice should fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown hue. This ensures that they cook evenly and achieve that delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with their sweet interior.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican Fried Plantains are delicious on their own, but they can also be enhanced with various toppings. Consider serving them with a sprinkle of fresh lime juice or alongside dishes like jerk chicken for a zesty contrast. They also pair wonderfully with salsa or spicy dipping sauces, amplifying their sweet flavor with a savory kick.

If you're looking to add an extra dimension, try seasoning the plantains with spices such as cinnamon, cayenne, or smoked paprika while frying. This not only elevates the taste but also offers a unique twist to the traditional recipe, making each bite distinctive and memorable.

Ingredients

For the Fried Plantains

3 ripe plantains
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Plantains

Peel the ripe plantains and slice them diagonally into about 1-inch thick pieces.

Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.

Fry the Plantains

Carefully add the sliced plantains to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown.

Drain and Season

Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with salt to taste.

Serve Warm

Serve the Jamaican Fried Plantains warm as a delicious side or snack.

Pro Tips

Always choose ripe plantains for the best flavor. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of your slices to achieve the perfect crispy texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Fried plantains are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to two days in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This method helps restore some crispiness that can be lost in the fridge.

If you're planning ahead, you can slice the plantains and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours, but frying should be done right before serving for the best texture. Simply prepare your plantains, heat the oil, and they will be ready in no time, ensuring that fresh flavor every time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fried plantains turn out too soft or mushy, it’s often due to either over-ripeness or frying at a too-low temperature. Always check the ripeness by pressing gently—if they feel too soft, they might be too far gone for frying. Make sure your oil is hot, hovering around 350°F (175°C), to maximize crispness.

In case you find your plantains are not browning as expected, consider increasing the heat slightly, but keep a close eye to avoid burning. Golden-brown edges are the goal; this signifies that the sugars are caramelizing properly, giving you that unique taste combination of sweetness and richness that makes Jamaican Fried Plantains irresistible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green plantains for this recipe?

Yes, green plantains can be used but will have a more starchy and less sweet flavor. They require a longer frying time.

→ What oil is best for frying plantains?

Vegetable oil or canola oil works best as they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

→ Can I bake instead of fry the plantains?

Yes, you can bake plantains for a healthier option. Slice them, brush with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

→ How should I store leftover fried plantains?

Store cooked plantains in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.