Jamaican Fried Plantains

Name: Jamaican Fried Plantains
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe plantains; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Traditional World Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Jamaican Fried Plantains! The combination of sweet, ripe plantains and just the right amount of frying creates a delightful treat that’s perfect as a side or snack. The crispy edges and soft centers are an irresistible contrast. Each bite transports me to the sunny Caribbean, evoking memories of family gatherings and festive occasions. This dish is incredibly simple yet so satisfying, and I often find myself making it on weekends to enjoy with loved ones or simply by myself while binge-watching my favorite shows.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-12T08:17:34.736Z

When I first tried Jamaican Fried Plantains, I was amazed by their simplicity yet divine flavor. Aiming for the perfect fry, I discovered that the best plantains are those that are fully ripe, with their skin turning slightly black. This gives them the sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior. I usually pair them with a spicy dip or serve them alongside savory dishes to balance the flavors.

One technique that really makes a difference is slicing the plantains at an angle. This maximizes the crispy surface area and enhances their delightful texture. By adjusting the frying time slightly according to the ripeness of the plantains, I've mastered this delicious snack to perfection, and I'm excited for you to try it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and crispy texture that's hard to resist
Versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of meals
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

The Perfect Ripeness of Plantains

The secret to achieving the best flavor and texture in Jamaican Fried Plantains lies in choosing plantains at the right stage of ripeness. Look for plantains that have a deep yellow skin with a few brown spots; these indicate peak sweetness. If your plantains are too green, they will be firm and less sweet, while overly ripe black plantains will be too soft and may break apart during frying. Aim for the middle ground for that perfect sweet and tender bite.

When preparing your plantains, ensure that you slice them diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. This not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also allows for an optimal frying surface area. The larger pieces will cook evenly, developing those delicious crispy edges while maintaining a soft center. If you prefer slightly thicker or thinner slices, just keep in mind that it may alter the cooking time—thicker slices require a bit longer to reach that golden perfection.

Frying Techniques for Crispy Perfection

When frying the plantains, it's crucial to use enough vegetable oil to submerge half of the slices for even cooking. A medium-high heat, around 350°F (175°C), is ideal; too low and they will absorb oil, losing that crispiness, too high and they can burn quickly. Monitor the oil temperature using a thermometer, or, as a tip, drop a small piece of plantain into the oil to see if it sizzles immediately; that’s your cue to start frying.

Make sure not to overcrowd the frying pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy plantains instead of the crispy contrast you desire. Fry the slices in batches, allowing some space in between for proper circulation. It takes about 2 to 3 minutes per side for the plantains to become beautifully golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to carefully flip them, ensuring even cooking and to avoid splashing hot oil.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Jamaican Fried Plantains can serve as a delightful side dish or a tasty snack, pairing beautifully with savory meals like jerk chicken or rice and peas. For a refreshing twist, consider serving them with a zesty dipping sauce, such as a mango salsa or a spicy mayo. These combinations not only enhance the overall flavor but also emphasize the sweet and crispy character of the plantains, creating a well-rounded dish.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a heated frying pan for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness, rather than using the microwave, which may render them soft. You can also freeze uncooked slices before frying; simply thaw them in the fridge before cooking to maintain their texture and flavor. It's a great way to have them ready for a quick snack anytime!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Fried Plantains

2 ripe plantains
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt to taste

Steps

Prepare the Plantains

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

Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.

Fry the Plantains

Carefully add the sliced plantains to the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.

Drain and Season

Once golden, remove the plantains from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with salt while hot.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some garlic powder or cayenne pepper on the plantains after frying, or pair them with a lime or avocado dip.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

While traditional Jamaican Fried Plantains use ripe plantains, you can experiment with green plantains for a different texture and flavor profile. Green plantains are starchier and firmer, and they require a longer frying time, usually about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This preparation will yield a savory snack that’s less sweet but still delicious, often used in traditional Latin dishes like tostones.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider air frying the plantains. Slice them as usual, toss them in a small amount of oil, and cook in an air fryer set at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Though they won't be as crispy as fried, air-fried plantains can still be satisfying and lower in calories.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue you might encounter is overly oily plantains. This can happen if the oil temperature is too low or if the plantains are overcrowded. If you find this to be the case, try adjusting your cooking technique by using a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature closely or frying in smaller batches to keep the oil temperature steady.

If your plantain slices fall apart while frying, it may be due to overly ripe plantains or slicing them too thinly. To prevent this, ensure your plantains are at the optimal ripeness (a mix of yellow and brown on the skin) and stick to the recommended 1-inch thickness for slices. This will help maintain their structure during cooking.

Make-Ahead and Enjoying Later

If you're planning to serve Jamaican Fried Plantains at a gathering, you can prepare them ahead of time by frying them lightly and keeping them warm in a low oven (around 200°F/93°C) until serving. This way, you can manage your cooking time effectively while still serving them warm and crispy.

For those who love to meal prep, consider making a batch for the week. You can prepare the plantains in advance, frying them just until they're golden but not fully crisp. Cool them, then store in the fridge and finish frying when you’re ready to enjoy. It’s a great way to have this delightful dish at your fingertips any day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green plantains?

Yes, green plantains can be used, but they will be more starchy and less sweet than ripe ones. You may need to adjust frying time.

→ What oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices as they have high smoke points for frying.

→ How do I know when plantains are ripe?

Ripe plantains will have mostly black skin with some yellow and will feel slightly soft to the touch.

→ Can I reheat fried plantains?

Yes, you can reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore some of their original crispiness.