Fried Sweet Plantains (15 Minutes!)

There is nothing like Fried Sweet Plantains to go along with your main entrees or enjoyed as a snack. You'll love this in-depth post to guide you through making the best fried sweet plantains, also known as Maduros. Traditionally served as a side dish throughout the Caribbean and Latin regions; fried sweet plantains have crispy edges with a tender, sweet middle! Sooo delicious...& recipe how-to video provided!

📝 Ingredients

• 3 large (extra ripe!) plantains- peeled & then sliced on a bias
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil- see notes)
• 1/2 teaspoon Creole Cajun Seasoning– homemade or store-bought, (or seasoned salt, adobo, old bay)
• 1/2 teaspoon packed brown sugar

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Prep the plantains: . Slice the plantains on a bias, at an angle, about 1/2-inch thick (as illustrated in images). Set the sliced plantains aside on a plate/platter or small baking sheet.
2. 2Fry the plantains: . Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the plantain slices into the skillet- working in batches, careful not to overcrowd. Fry the plantains until golden brown and slightly crisp, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Use a slotted utensil (I like to use a fish spatula) to gently flip the plantains while frying; careful not to handle them too aggressively as they’re super tender.
3. 3If you notice your plantains are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low. I find 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve perfectly crispy yet nice, tender-in-the-middle plantains. However, you can fry your plantains until they reach your desired level of doneness- just look for them to be caramelized on the outside with a buttery center.
4. 4Serve: . Set the fried sweet plantains onto a paper towel-lined plate to sop up any excess oil. Season the plantains, if desired. I like to sprinkle them with a mix of Creole Cajun seasoning and brown sugar- the perfect savory/sweet combo. Serve plantains immediately as a snack or alongside your favorite main entrees. Enjoy!