Fried Green Plantains Recipe
Make Fried Green Plantains Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Plantains
For Frying
Finishing & Serving
Method
Plantains
Prepare plantains
Rinse the plantains. Cut off both ends with a sharp knife. Make a lengthwise shallow slit through the peel from end to end and pry the peel away in sections, or if the peel is stubborn, slice the plantain lengthwise into halves and remove peel from each half. Rinse again and pat dry with paper towels.
Slice plantains
Cut each peeled plantain on the diagonal into 1/4- to 1/3-inch thick slices. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly. Place slices in a bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt; toss gently to coat. Let sit 5 minutes to draw out a bit of moisture.
For Frying
Heat oil
Pour 2 cups of vegetable oil into a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan (enough to come about 1/4-1/2 inch up the sides) and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering and a small piece of plantain sizzles immediately when added (about 350°F / 175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test with a small scrap of plantain: it should sizzle steadily but not burn.
Fry plantain slices
Working in a single layer, add plantain slices to the hot oil without overcrowding (you may need 2–3 batches). Fry until golden and crisp at the edges, about 2–3 minutes per side, flipping once with tongs or a slotted spoon. Adjust heat as needed so the plantains brown but do not burn; lower to medium if browning too quickly. As you fry each batch, transfer the cooked slices to a paper towel–lined tray to drain.
Season while hot
Immediately after transferring each batch to the paper towels, lightly sprinkle with coarse sea salt (about 1/4 teaspoon per batch) and a pinch of black pepper so the seasoning adheres while the plantains are still hot.
Finishing & Serving
Serve
Arrange the fried plantains on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if using and serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top. Serve hot as a side, snack, or appetizer.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness.