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: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Fried Plantains because they bring a taste of the Caribbean to my kitchen. The sweet and savory balance of ripe plantains perfectly fried creates an irresistible snack or side dish. I enjoy experimenting with different ripeness levels, as the flavor transforms from sweet to a more complex, nutty profile. Pairing them with a sprinkle of sea salt elevates each bite, making them a delightful treat for family and friends. Trust me, once you try them, you'll find it hard to stop at just one!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:31:11.122Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Fried Plantains during a vacation on a tropical island, I knew I had to recreate them at home. After some trial and error, I discovered that using overripe plantains truly enhances the sweetness and ensures a creamy texture inside.

I recommend frying them twice for an extra crispy outside. The first fry softens them, while the second fry adds a beautiful golden crust. Don't forget a dash of salt right after frying; it beautifully balances the sweetness and creates a flavor explosion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Easy to prepare, yet feels like a gourmet treat
Perfect for snacking or as a side with any meal

      

Choosing the Perfect Plantains

When making Jamaican Fried Plantains, the ripeness of your plantains is crucial for achieving the right flavor and texture. Look for plantains that have a bright yellow color with some black spots; this indicates they are ripe enough to provide that delicious sweetness, yet not overly soft. If you prefer a nuttier taste, opt for plantains that are more on the black side. They’ll offer a complex flavor profile while still maintaining a delightful texture when fried.

Slice them at a slight diagonal to ensure each piece is about 1-inch thick, which helps them cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior. If the slices are too thin, they can become overly crispy and might burn, while thicker slices may remain undercooked at the center. Aim for a perfect balance to enjoy their tender, creamy middle alongside the crispy edges.

Frying Technique

The frying temperature plays a vital role in getting your plantains just right. Heat the vegetable oil in your frying pan until it shimmers but isn't smoking—this indicates it's at about 350°F (175°C). Too low of a heat will result in greasy plantains, while too high could burn them before they cook through. Carefully test with a small piece first; it should sizzle vigorously as it hits the oil.

Fry the plantain slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Make sure to avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven frying. Work in batches if needed to maintain that perfect crunch!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Fried Plantains

2 ripe plantains
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Salt (to taste)

Instructions

Prep the Plantains

Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into about 1-inch thick slices.

Heat the Oil

In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Fry the Plantains

Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Drain and Season

Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried plantains and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with salt.

Serve

Serve hot as a snack or alongside your favorite main dishes.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, serve with a dollop of spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Fried Plantains are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. As a side dish, they pair wonderfully with savory meats like jerk chicken or grilled fish, adding a delightful sweetness to counterbalance spicy or savory flavors. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce, such as a spicy mayo or garlic aioli, for an elevated snacking experience.

For a lighter meal, consider adding them to a salad with fresh greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette. The warm, crispy plantains will add texture and flavor, making the dish more satisfying. Don't hesitate to get creative by incorporating them into tacos or sandwiches for a unique twist!

Storage Tips

To keep your fried plantains fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They can lose some of their crispy texture in the fridge, but you can easily revive them by placing them in a hot skillet for a few minutes to re-crisp before serving.

If you're looking to make a larger batch ahead of time, consider frying the plantains but then freezing them before the final frying step. Freeze the uncooked slices on a baking sheet until solid and then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. When you’re ready, fry them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as necessary to achieve that perfect golden finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green plantains instead?

Yes, green plantains are less sweet and more starchy, which creates a different texture and flavor. They need to be sliced thinner and may require more frying time.

→ How can I store leftover fried plantains?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pan-fry them quickly to restore some crispness.

→ What other spices can I add to the plantains?

You can sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, or cumin on the fried plantains for additional flavor.

→ Are fried plantains healthy?

While they are higher in calories due to frying, plantains are a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Enjoy in moderation as a part of a balanced diet.