Fried Plantain Slices

Fried Plantain Slices Recipe from Haiti | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Fried plantain slices are a popular and delicious dish enjoyed in many cultures around the world. This simple yet flavorful recipe involves frying ripe plantains until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, while sweet and tender on the inside.

History

Plantains are a staple food in many tropical regions, including Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Fried plantains have been enjoyed for centuries, with each culture adding its own unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Peel the plantain and cut off both ends.
Thinly slice the plantain into rounds measuring 0.25 - 0.5 inches.
In a large, heavy skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat, ensuring close monitoring.
Once the oil sizzles upon adding a slice of plantain, add several plantain slices and brown them for approximately 2 minutes on each side.
Transfer the browned slices to towels to drain the excess oil.
On a cutting board, use a rolling pin to flatten each slice into a flat round shape.
Reintroduce the flattened rounds into the oil and brown them for an additional minute on each side.
Drain the rounds once again on the towels, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or sugar for a sweet twist.
Serve the fried plantain slices with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
Top the fried plantain slices with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use ripe plantains for the best flavor and texture.

- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the plantain slices to ensure they fry evenly.

- Flatten the plantain slices with a rolling pin for a crispy texture.

- Season the fried plantains with salt and pepper for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Fried plantain slices can be served as a side dish or snack. They pair well with rice and beans, grilled meats, or a simple salad.

Cooking Techniques

Frying is the traditional method of cooking plantains, but you can also bake or grill them for a healthier alternative.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have plantains, you can use bananas as a substitute. Keep in mind that bananas are sweeter and softer than plantains, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the plantain slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the fried plantain slices on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Fried plantain slices pair well with a variety of dishes, including jerk chicken, black beans and rice, or grilled fish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fried plantain slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven until crispy and heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of fried plantain slices contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Plantains are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. One serving of fried plantain slices contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Fried plantain slices are cooked in vegetable oil, which adds some fat to the dish. One serving of fried plantain slices contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Plantains are not a significant source of protein. One serving of fried plantain slices contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Plantains are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. One serving of fried plantain slices provides a good amount of these nutrients.

Alergens

Fried plantain slices are free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Fried plantain slices are a delicious and nutritious dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. They are a great addition to any meal.

Summary

Fried plantain slices are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or snack. With their crispy exterior and sweet, tender interior, they are sure to be a hit at your next meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, in the bustling streets of a small village in Nigeria, where I first learned how to make fried plantain slices. The sun was shining brightly overhead, casting a warm glow over the colorful market stalls and bustling crowds. As I wandered through the narrow alleyways, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling plantains wafted through the air, beckoning me to follow.

I followed my nose to a small food stall tucked away in a corner of the market. There, a kind old woman with weathered hands and a warm smile was busy frying up batch after batch of golden plantains. Intrigued, I approached her and asked if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. With a twinkle in her eye, she nodded and motioned for me to come closer.

As she expertly peeled and sliced the ripe plantains, she began to recount the story of how she learned to make this dish from her own grandmother many years ago. She told me that plantains were a staple in Nigerian cuisine, enjoyed as a side dish or snack, and that each family had their own special way of preparing them.

She generously shared her recipe with me, explaining that the key to perfect fried plantain slices was to use ripe plantains with a slight yellow hue and to slice them thinly for even cooking. She seasoned the slices with a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of chili powder before frying them in hot oil until they were crisp and golden brown.

As she handed me a piping hot plate of fried plantain slices, I eagerly took a bite and was greeted with a burst of flavor - sweet, savory, and slightly spicy all at once. It was love at first bite, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect the art of making fried plantain slices, experimenting with different seasonings and cooking techniques to create my own signature dish. I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition from one generation to the next.

Now, whenever I make fried plantain slices, I am transported back to that bustling market in Nigeria, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of my youth. The memories of that fateful day and the kind old woman who shared her recipe with me will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of golden fried plantain slices, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to pass down traditions from one generation to the next. I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the many others that have shaped me into the cook and the person that I am today. And I will always cherish the memory of discovering the magic of fried plantain slices for the first time.