Pan-Fried Sweet Plantains: A Delicious Side Dish for Any Meal
These pan-fried sweet plantains are not just any side dish; they are the perfect starchy addition to your favorite protein bowl! Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and with a delightful sweetness, these plantains will make your taste buds dance. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast or as a side dish for dinner, they are sure to become a new favorite.
What are plantains?
Plantains are a staple in Latin American cooking and closely resemble bananas in appearance. However, their taste is quite different. Unlike bananas, plantains are starchier and have a thicker skin. While bananas can be eaten raw, plantains need to be cooked before enjoying. They pair well with savory dishes and can be enjoyed at different stages of ripeness. From green to yellow to brown, each stage offers a unique flavor profile. Green plantains are perfect for making chips or tostones, while ripe plantains are best for frying or even using in desserts.
How to Cook Plantains (Pan Frying)
Pan-frying plantains may sound intimidating, but fear not! It’s a simple and rewarding process. Here’s how to achieve perfectly golden and delicious pan-fried plantains:
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Peel + slice the plantains. Peel the plantains and slice them into ¼-inch-thick discs.
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Heat the oil. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the plantains. Place the plantains in a single layer in the pan and cook for 4 minutes. If all the plantains don’t fit in the pan, work in batches.
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Flip the plantains. Flip the plantains with tongs or a spatula and continue cooking for 4 more minutes until both sides are golden brown.
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Transfer + season. Transfer the cooked plantains to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt.
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Serve warm + enjoy!
What to Serve with Pan-Fried Sweet Plantains
Pan-fried sweet plantains are incredibly versatile. They make a delightful addition to your breakfast plate alongside fried eggs, crispy bacon, and a spoonful of lemony kale. If you prefer an egg-free option, consider pairing them with a DIY breakfast plate or a bison breakfast bowl. For dinner, they shine as a starchy side dish. Combine them with crispy carnitas, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a drizzle of homemade ranch for a truly mouthwatering meal. In fact, plantains can be enjoyed with any meal that traditionally includes roasted cubed potatoes.
How to Store
If you manage to resist eating all the plantains in one sitting (no easy task!), you can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. To reheat them, heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the plantains and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they are warmed through.
We hope these crispy, caramelized pan-fried sweet plantains bring a delightful twist to your typical starchy side dishes. Give them a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!
