Maduros (Fried Sweet Plantains) Recipe
Introduction
Maduros are sweet fried plantains that offer a perfect balance of caramelized flavor and soft texture. This simple dish is a beloved side in many Latin American cuisines and makes a delicious snack or accompaniment to your meals.
Ingredients
- 2 sweet plantains, very ripe
- 1 cup neutral oil, for frying
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel and slice the plantains by cutting off the ends and making a shallow slit along their length. Carefully remove the peel in one piece. Slice the plantains on a bias into 1/2 inch thick pieces.
- Step 2: Pour about 1 cup of oil into a large cast iron or nonstick frying pan, enough to cover about 1/4 inch depth. Heat over medium heat until hot.
- Step 3: Add the sliced plantains in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy at the edges. Use a fork to flip gently.
- Step 4: Remove the fried plantains to a paper-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot for best texture.
Tips & Variations
- Choose very ripe plantains with mostly black skin for the sweetest flavor and softest texture.
- If you prefer less oil, try shallow frying with less oil and turning frequently to avoid burning.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt or cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.
Storage
Store leftover maduros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispy edges.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use green plantains instead of ripe ones?
Green plantains are starchier and less sweet, so they won’t caramelize like maduros. For a similar dish, consider making tostones instead, which are twice-fried green plantain slices.
What type of oil is best for frying plantains?
Neutral oils with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil work best to fry plantains evenly without overpowering their natural sweetness.
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Maduros (Fried Sweet Plantains) Recipe
- Total Time: 16-18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2-3 1x
Description
Maduros are sweet fried plantains that are golden, caramelized, and slightly crispy on the edges. This simple recipe highlights very ripe sweet plantains fried to perfection in neutral oil, making a delicious side dish or snack that pairs well with a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 sweet plantains, very ripe
- 1 cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil), for frying
Instructions
- Peel and slice the plantains: Cut off the ends of each plantain and make a shallow slit along the length of the peel without cutting into the flesh. Use your hands to carefully remove the peel in one piece and discard it. Slice the plantains diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Heat the oil: Pour about 1 cup of neutral oil into a large cast iron or nonstick frying pan, enough to cover the plantain slices halfway (about 1/4 inch deep). Heat the oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry the plantains: Place the sliced plantains carefully in a single layer in the hot oil. If all pieces do not fit, fry in batches. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy edges form. Use a fork to gently flip the plantains to avoid damaging them.
- Drain and serve: Transfer the fried plantains to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Remove them from the paper towels before they cool to prevent sticking. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers: Place any leftover plantains in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat them briefly in the microwave or in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy edges.
Notes
- Use very ripe plantains for maximum sweetness and caramelization.
- Be sure not to overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even cooking.
- Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
- Monitor the heat carefully to avoid burning the plantains.
- Serving maduros hot ensures the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American
Keywords: maduros, fried sweet plantains, side dish, Latin American cuisine, plantain recipe, fried plantains
