Caramelized Fried Sweet Plantains
Enjoy the irresistible taste of Caramelized Fried Sweet Plantains, a beloved Cuban delicacy that doubles as a delightful snack or a perfect side dish. These golden slices are created from ripe plantains, which are naturally sweet and offer a unique texture that beautifully complements various meats or fish. With just a few ingredients, you can bring a taste of the tropics into your home kitchen. Ideal for a lunch spread or casual snack, these plantains are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Serve them warm and experience their melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/4 cup (melted)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (added to the butter)
ripe plantains
3 (peeled and cut diagonally into 1 inch slices)
lemon
1/2 (juiced)
salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling the ripe plantains and slicing them diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. Set aside.
2
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the olive oil to the skillet for added richness.
3
Carefully place the sliced plantains in the skillet in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches), ensuring not to overcrowd them.
4
Fry the plantains for about 4 minutes on one side until they become golden brown, then flip them over and fry the other side for an additional 4 minutes, occasionally moving them with a spatula to prevent sticking.
5
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the plantains from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
6
Transfer the drained plantains onto a warm serving platter, then drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle generously with salt to enhance their sweetness.
7
Serve immediately while they are warm, and enjoy your delicious Caramelized Fried Sweet Plantains!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Caramelized Fried Sweet Plantains?
They are a beloved Cuban delicacy made from ripe plantains that are fried until golden brown and naturally sweet.
What is the origin of this plantain recipe?
This recipe is a traditional part of Cuban cuisine.
What kind of plantains should I use?
You should use ripe plantains, which are naturally sweet and offer the best texture for frying.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 5 ingredients: butter, olive oil, ripe plantains, lemon, and salt.
How should the plantains be sliced?
They should be peeled and sliced diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces.
What fats are used for frying the plantains?
The recipe uses a combination of 1/4 cup of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
How long do I fry the plantains on each side?
Fry the plantains for approximately 4 minutes per side.
What heat setting should be used for the skillet?
The butter and oil should be heated over medium heat.
How do I know when the plantains are done?
They are ready when both sides have become a rich golden brown color.
How do I prevent the plantains from sticking to the pan?
Occasionally move them with a spatula while they are frying.
Should I cook all the plantains at once?
You should place them in a single layer and may need to fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
What is the purpose of the paper towels in this recipe?
They are used to line a plate to absorb excess oil from the plantains after frying.
What seasoning is added after frying?
The plantains are drizzled with fresh lemon juice and sprinkled generously with salt.
Why add lemon juice to sweet plantains?
The lemon juice enhances the natural sweetness and balances the richness of the dish.
Can I serve these cold?
It is recommended to serve them immediately while they are still warm for the best experience.
Are these served as a main dish?
They are typically served as a delightful snack or a perfect side dish.
What foods do these plantains pair well with?
They beautifully complement various meat or fish dishes.
What is the texture of Caramelized Fried Sweet Plantains?
They offer a unique, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is soft and caramelized.
How many plantains does this recipe call for?
The recipe uses 3 ripe plantains.
How much butter is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of melted butter.
Is olive oil necessary for this recipe?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of olive oil is added to the butter for extra richness.
What is the best way to remove them from the skillet?
Use a slotted spoon to carefully lift the plantains out of the oil.
Are plantains the same as bananas?
While related, plantains are starchier and usually need to be cooked; ripe ones become very sweet.
How much lemon juice should I use?
The juice from 1/2 of a lemon is used for drizzling.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch?
Yes, it is ideal for a lunch spread or as a casual tropical snack.
How thick should I cut the plantain slices?
The slices should be cut to about 1 inch in thickness.
Why is salt used in this recipe?
Salt is used to enhance the natural sweetness of the caramelized plantains.
Do I need any special equipment?
A large skillet and a slotted spoon are the primary tools needed.
Is this a vegetarian dish?
Yes, this recipe contains only plant-based ingredients and dairy butter.
How would you describe this dish to someone who hasn't tried it?
It is a tropical comfort food that is sweet, salty, and golden brown with a soft interior.