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: Simple Planning

I simply cannot get enough of Jamaican Fried Plantains! These sweet, golden slices bring a delightful crunch and a hint of caramelization that transports me straight to the Caribbean with every bite. Whether as a side dish or a snack, they pair perfectly with almost anything. I love the depth of flavor that frying brings out, especially when you select plantains at just the right stage of ripeness. They are easy to prepare, and I'm excited to share this recipe with you so you can experience the joy of this vibrant dish at home!

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:42:36.208Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Fried Plantains at a local restaurant, I was immediately hooked. The combination of sweet and savory flavors along with that perfect crispy exterior made it hard to stop at just one. After numerous attempts at recreating that dish at home, I discovered an ideal frying temperature that ensures the plantains become beautifully golden without burning.

One trick I’ve learned is to allow the plantains to ripen until they are mostly black for the sweetest result. Cutting them at an angle not only gives a unique shape, but it also creates a greater surface area for frying, leading to an even crispier texture.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory flavor that captivates your taste buds
Easy to prepare with just a few ingredients
Perfectly crispy outside, soft and sweet inside

      

Choosing the Right Plantains

The key to achieving the perfect flavor and texture in your Jamaican Fried Plantains lies in selecting the right plantains. Ripe plantains should have a deep yellow color with brown spots, indicating that they are sweet and ready for frying. Avoid green plantains, as they will be too starchy and not have the desired sweetness. If you can't find ripe plantains, you can let unripe ones sit at room temperature for several days to ripen naturally.

When slicing the plantains, aim for a diagonal cut about 1-inch thick. This shape increases surface area, enhancing the caramelization during frying, leading to crispy edges and a soft, sweet center. If you prefer, you can also cut them into rounds, but the diagonal slices tend to fry more evenly and develop a more satisfying texture.

Frying Tips for Perfectly Crispy Plantains

To achieve that tantalizing golden-brown crust, it’s essential to fry the plantains at the right oil temperature. Heat your vegetable oil until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of plantain; if it sizzles vigorously, it's ready. Fry the plantains in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than frying, compromising the crunchiness you want.

While frying, keep an eye on them; the plantains typically take 2-3 minutes per side to turn golden brown. If you notice any uneven cooking or browning, adjust the heat accordingly. I recommend using a slotted spoon for turning, making it easier to gauge the color and ensure each slice is perfectly cooked without burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your Jamaican Fried Plantains:

Ingredients

2 ripe plantains
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect fried plantains:

Slice the Plantains

Peel the plantains and cut them diagonally into approximately 1-inch thick slices.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.

Fry the Plantains

Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they are golden brown, roughly 2-3 minutes on each side.

Drain and Season

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

Serve

Enjoy your fried plantains warm, either as a snack or as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite meals.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use ripe plantains that are mostly black. Adjust the frying temperature to achieve the desired level of crispiness without burning.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Fried Plantains can be enjoyed in various ways. They pair beautifully with a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats and fish to rice and beans. For a traditional touch, serve them alongside jerk chicken or curry goat. You can also dress them up with a sprinkle of lime juice for added zest, or serve with a tangy dipping sauce like garlic aioli or a spicy salsa.

If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating them into salads for a delightful contrast of crunch and sweetness. They can also be mashed and served as a unique side dish. Their versatility makes them suitable not only for main meals but also as a fun snack during gatherings or parties.

Storing and Reheating Fried Plantains

If you have leftovers, store the fried plantains in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, they do lose their crispness as they sit. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore some of their crunch. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy and unappealing.

If you want to prepare plantains in advance, consider frying them in advance but leaving them slightly undercooked. This way, when you're ready to serve, you can do a quick fry for 1-2 minutes, allowing them to crisp up beautifully while heating through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green plantains?

Yes! Green plantains will yield a firmer texture and more savory flavor, perfect for a different style of fried plantains.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover fried plantains can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

→ What can I serve with fried plantains?

They pair wonderfully with dishes like jerk chicken, rice and beans, or can be enjoyed on their own as a tasty snack!

→ Is there a healthier way to prepare them?

Yes! You can bake or air-fry plantain slices for a healthier option, though they may not have the same texture as fried ones.