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: Traditional Favorites

I absolutely love making Jamaican Fried Plantains! They are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, and they remind me of my travels to the Caribbean. The golden-brown exterior and soft, tender interior make them irresistible. I often serve them as a side dish or snack, and the aroma that fills my kitchen when they are frying is simply delightful. You can easily personalize them with spices to suit your taste. If you haven't tried them yet, you're in for a real treat!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:27:35.066Z

When I first tried Jamaican Fried Plantains at a local Jamaican restaurant, I was hooked. The combination of sweetness from the ripe plantains and the crunch from frying elevated my taste buds to a new level. Since then, I’ve been perfecting my own version at home, experimenting with ripeness and spices.

I’ve discovered that using overripe plantains yields the best results, as they caramelize beautifully. A dash of salt just after frying enhances their natural sweetness, making them a delightful treat that disappears quickly at gatherings. Give it a try!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to snack
Versatile and pairs well with many dishes

      

Choosing the Right Plantains

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Jamaican Fried Plantains, selecting ripe plantains is key. Look for plantains that are mostly yellow with a few black spots; this indicates they are sweet enough for frying. Overripe plantains can be used as well, but keep in mind they will produce a softer texture and a more intense sweetness. For those who prefer a balance between savory and sweet, plantains that are just turning yellow are optimal.

If you're unable to find ripe plantains, you can allow them to ripen at room temperature for a few days. Avoid refrigerating them, as this will halt the ripening process. Conversely, green plantains can also be used, but they will yield a much firmer and starchier result. If you opt for green plantains, I recommend soaking the slices in brine for a few minutes before frying to enhance their flavor.

Perfecting Your Frying Technique

Frying plantains to golden perfection requires careful attention to oil temperature. Using a thermometer to maintain the oil at about 350°F (175°C) can help you achieve that desired crispiness without burning the exterior. If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by adding a small piece of plantain; it should sizzle gently upon contact. If it bubbles vigorously or smokes, the oil is too hot.

Consider frying the plantains in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and cause uneven cooking. Allowing enough space will ensure each piece gets that delightful golden-brown crust. After frying, I like to let them drain on paper towels, which helps retain their crispiness by removing excess oil. Plus, sprinkling salt immediately after frying enhances their flavor!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Fried Plantains

Ingredients

2 ripe plantains
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt to taste

Make sure the plantains are ripe but not overly soft for best frying results!

Instructions

Steps to Make Jamaican Fried Plantains

Prepare the Plantains

Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.

Heat the Oil

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

Fry the Plantains

Once the oil is hot, carefully add the plantain slices in batches. Fry until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Drain and Serve

Remove the fried plantains and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with salt while still hot!

Serve warm as a delicious side or snack!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper before frying for a spicy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Fried Plantains are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. For a traditional experience, serve them alongside jerk chicken or rice and peas. Their sweetness complements spicy dishes beautifully, adding an element of balance. Alternatively, you can enjoy them as a snack with a spicy dipping sauce or even a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of flavor.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider presenting these fried plantains as part of a tapas-style platter. They pair wonderfully with avocado salad, grilled shrimp, or even charcuterie. Guests can enjoy a bit of everything while savoring the sweet, savory combo of the fried plantains.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Though Jamaican Fried Plantains are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers to enjoy later. Place any cooled plantains in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until they become warm and slightly crispy again, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

If you're looking to make a larger batch, consider freezing the fried plantains. After frying and cooling, flash freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. Reheating from frozen requires a few minutes longer in the skillet, but they will retain their delicious flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green plantains for this recipe?

Yes, you can use green plantains, but they will be less sweet and have a firmer texture.

→ What are the best ripeness levels for plantains?

Yellow plantains are sweet, while black ones are the ripest and the sweetest. Choose based on your preference!

→ How do I store leftover fried plantains?

Store fried plantains in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven to retain crispiness.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it includes only plantains and oil.