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; Vegetable oil (for frying); Salt (to taste)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Growing up, fried plantains were a staple in my kitchen. I remember the sweet aroma wafting through the air as my mother prepared them for breakfast or a tasty side dish. There's something incredibly comforting about their golden, crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior. I love how easy they are to make, yet they bring such delightful flavor to any meal. Whether enjoyed plain or with a sprinkle of sea salt, these fried plantains are truly a versatile treat that I can never resist.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:28:05.668Z

One of my favorite things about making Jamaican fried plantains is how simple yet satisfying they are. I usually select ripe plantains, with their skin having black spots, as they yield the sweetest flavor. Slicing them diagonally not only adds a nice presentation but also helps them cook evenly. I start with a hot skillet to ensure they get that perfect crispy edge.

Along with the golden-brown transformation of the plantains, frying them brings out their natural sweetness. I remember experimenting with different oils, and I've found that coconut oil adds a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with the plantains. This dish has become a family favorite, whether served for breakfast or as a side.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Golden-brown exterior with a perfectly soft inside
Naturally sweet flavor pairs well with savory dishes
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for any time of day

      

Perfecting Your Fry

Frying plantains is an art that requires just the right temperature for perfect results. Ideally, heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cold, the plantains will absorb excess oil and become greasy rather than crispy. Conversely, if it's too hot, they may burn before cooking through. A good test is to place a small piece of plantain in the oil; it should bubble gently. Adjust the heat as necessary while frying to maintain a consistent temperature.

As you fry the plantains, pay attention to their color and texture. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown exterior that signals crispness. Resist the urge to flip them too early. Allow them to fry undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on one side before turning. This time lets the sugars caramelize, contributing to their delightful flavor. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to ensure they cook evenly.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover fried plantains, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, be mindful that the longer they sit, the softer they will get. To retain some of their original texture when reheating, I suggest using an air fryer or a hot skillet. Simply reheat them over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally to crisp them up again.

For longer storage, consider freezing your fried plantains. Flash freeze them by laying them flat on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They can be kept this way for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, there's no need to thaw; just fry them straight from the freezer for around 3-4 minutes until golden brown and heated through. This method preserves both flavor and texture quite well.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make delicious Jamaican fried plantains:

Ingredients

2 ripe plantains
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Salt (to taste)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from enjoying this delicious treat!

Instructions

Cooking Jamaican fried plantains is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Peel and Slice the Plantains

Begin by peeling the plantains. Use a knife to cut off both ends and then slice the skin lengthwise to remove it. Once peeled, cut the plantains at a diagonal into about 1-inch thick slices.

Heat the Oil

In a frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop in a slice of plantain; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.

Fry the Plantains

Carefully add the sliced plantains to the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden yellow and crispy, then flip and fry the other side for another 2 minutes.

Drain and Serve

Once cooked, remove the plantains with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Season with a little salt if desired and serve warm.

Enjoy your fried plantains as a side dish, snack, or even for breakfast!

Pro Tips

Try experimenting with the ripeness of the plantains. The yellow ones provide a sweeter flavor, while green ones offer a more savory taste. You can also try adding a hint of cinnamon for a fun twist!

Serving Suggestions

Fried plantains are incredibly versatile and can complement a wide range of dishes. Serve them alongside a hearty stew or grilled meats for a satisfying meal. Their sweetness balances spicy and savory flavors wonderfully, so consider pairing them with jerk chicken or black bean dishes. You can also serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like tzatziki or a spicy aioli for a fusion twist.

For a delightful breakfast, top your fried plantains with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of honey. This creates a wonderful contrast between sweet and savory, highlight their natural flavors. Alternatively, pair them with eggs to enhance your morning routine. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to experiment based on your mood or meal planning needs.

Variations to Try

While the classic fried plantain is delightful, there are many ways to put your spin on this recipe. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or even cayenne pepper to your salt before sprinkling it on the finished plantains for an unexpected flavor boost. Some people enjoy a sweet and savory mix—try adding a drizzle of maple syrup or melted coconut sugar just as they come off the heat for a unique take.

You can also explore using green plantains if you prefer a more starchy taste and firmer texture. The cooking time may slightly increase as they require more frying to achieve a similar crispness and flavor profile. Just make sure to slice them thicker, about 1.5 inches, to allow for proper cooking through without burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green plantains for frying?

Yes, green plantains can be fried, but they will be less sweet and more starchy, offering a different taste.

→ What oil is best for frying plantains?

Vegetable oil or coconut oil are great options, as they have high smoke points and add wonderful flavor.

→ How do I store leftover fried plantains?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to bring back crispiness.

→ Can I bake plantains instead of frying them?

Yes! Though the texture will be different, you can slice and bake the plantains at 400°F (200°C) until crispy.