Get ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with these incredibly simple and delicious Golden Crispy Fried Sweet Plantains, also known as Maduros! Imagine sweet, ripe plantains, sliced and fried to a perfect golden-brown, boasting a wonderfully caramelized exterior and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior. This beloved snack or side dish is celebrated for its irresistible sweet and savory balance, making it a delightful treat for any time of day, whether as a complement to a hearty meal or a standalone indulgence.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15-20 mins (includes frying time)
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Fried Sweet Plantains:
- 3-4 large Ripe Plantains, (yellow with black spots, firm to the touch)
- 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil, (or any neutral high-heat oil like canola or corn oil, for frying)
- Salt, (a pinch, for sprinkling after frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Plantains: Peel the plantains. Slice them diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. (Diagonal cuts provide more surface area for caramelization.)
- Heat the Oil: Pour the oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to a depth of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Heat over medium heat until the oil is hot but not smoking – about 325-350°F (160-175°C). (A piece of plantain should sizzle gently when added.)
- Fry the Plantains: Carefully place the plantain slices in a single layer in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. (You may need to fry in batches.) Fry for about 2-4 minutes per side, or until they are deeply golden brown and caramelized. The exact time will depend on the ripeness of your plantains and the oil temperature.
- Drain: Remove the fried plantains from the skillet using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Season: While still warm, sprinkle lightly with a pinch of salt if you enjoy a sweet and salty contrast.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm. Enjoy these delightful treats as they are, or alongside your favorite dishes.
Recipe Notes:
- Choosing Your Plantains: For sweet fried plantains (Maduros), select very ripe plantains. They should be mostly yellow with significant black spotting, and feel firm-ish but yield slightly to pressure, similar to a ripe banana. Greener plantains will be starchier and less sweet, resulting in tostones (which are twice-fried and smashed).
- Oil Temperature is Key: If the oil is too hot, the plantains will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Maintain a medium heat and adjust as needed.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying in batches ensures the oil temperature doesn’t drop too much, resulting in evenly cooked and crispy plantains.
- Sweetness Variation: The natural sweetness comes from the ripeness of the plantains. No extra sugar is typically needed for Maduros.
- Serving Suggestions: Maduros are fantastic on their own, or served alongside rice and beans, roasted pork, grilled chicken, or even with a dollop of crema or a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
- Storage and Reheating: Fried plantains are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until warmed through and re-crisped. (Microwaving can make them soggy.)
There you have it – an incredibly simple, delicious, and satisfying tropical treat that’s perfect for any occasion! These Golden Crispy Fried Sweet Plantains will quickly become a favorite for their delightful sweetness and easy preparation. We hope you enjoy this taste of paradise! Happy frying!
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings, using 1/2 cup oil with some absorption)
Calories: 280-350; Total Fat: 14-18g (Saturated Fat: 1.5-2.5g); Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 5-150mg (depending on added salt); Total Carbohydrates: 40-48g (Dietary Fiber: 3-4g, Total Sugars: 20-28g); Protein: 1-2g.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, oil absorption, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.
