Best 2 Sweet And Savory Fried Plantains Recipes

Are you craving a tantalizing dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors? Look no further than the delectable sweet and savory fried plantains! Originating from tropical regions, plantains are starchy fruits that, when fried, transform into a crispy and flavorful treat. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory notes of herbs and spices, making them an irresistible snack or side dish. Whether you prefer a simple preparation or a more elaborate recipe, this article will guide you through the culinary journey of creating the perfect sweet and savory fried plantains that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

SWEET AND SAVORY FRIED PLANTAINS

Sweet and Savory Fried Plantains image

Fried plantains are a traditional treat in many parts of the world. Try them once and you'll be hooked. Yellow (ripe) work best. Serve this as a sweet and savory side dish to a meal, as a dessert, or as a snack. They are also delicious atop a dark, leafy, and green spinach or kale salad with goat cheese.

Provided by Donna Munaco

Categories Desserts

Time 10m

Yield 3

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

1 large yellow plantain, peeled
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon canola oil
½ teaspoon reduced-fat margarine (such as Smart Balance®)
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon agave nectar
⅓ teaspoon light brown sugar
1 pinch ground cinnamon, or more to taste

Steps:

Cut plantain into three sections. Quarter each section so you have twelve pieces. Season plantain pieces with garlic powder.
Heat oil and margarine together in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook plantains in hot oil until lightly browned, 2 to 3 minutes per side; season with black pepper and continue to cook until slightly darker in color, 2 to 3 minutes more. Remove skillet from heat and drizzle agave syrup over the plantain pieces. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over the plantains.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 165.9 calories, Carbohydrate 31.9 g, Fat 5.3 g, Fiber 2.4 g, Protein 1.2 g, SaturatedFat 0.5 g, Sodium 11.1 mg, Sugar 16 g

SWEET FRIED PLANTAINS

Sweet Fried Plantains image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories dessert

Time 24m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

Vegetable oil, for shallow frying
2 firm-ripe plantains (about 1 pound)
Kosher salt
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Rum Whipped Cream, recipe follows, or ice cream
3/4 cups heavy cream, chilled
1 tablespoon dark rum

Steps:

Heat about 1-inch of oil in heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer inserted in the oil registers 340 degrees F. Line a large plate with paper towels.
Peel the plantains and discard the skins. Slice into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Fry the plantains in oil, turning occasionally, until a golden brown color, about 2 to 4 minutes. The longer the plantains fry the sweeter they are. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle the plantains with a little salt.
Put the sugar and cinnamon in a brown bag, drop the warm plantains into the bag, and shake to coat evenly. Serve with rum whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.
Whip the cream just until soft peaks form. Add the rum and whip again, taking care not to over whip your cream. Serve now or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips:

Selecting the Right Plantains: Choose ripe plantains with a uniform yellow or black color. Avoid plantains with any signs of bruising or blemishes.
Preparing the Plantains: To prevent the plantains from sticking to the pan, ensure they are completely dry before frying. Use a sharp knife to make clean, even cuts when slicing the plantains.
Controlling the Heat: Maintain medium to medium-high heat throughout the frying process. High heat can cause the plantains to burn on the outside while remaining uncooked on the inside. Adjust the heat as needed to achieve a golden brown color.
Draining Excess Oil: After frying, transfer the plantains to a plate or paper towel-lined tray to absorb any excess oil. This step helps to prevent the plantains from becoming soggy.
Seasoning and Serving: Experiment with different seasonings to enhance the flavor of the plantains. Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder are common choices. For a sweet variation, sprinkle cinnamon sugar or honey on the plantains.

Conclusion:

With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, fried plantains are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or even a main course. Whether you prefer sweet or savory flavors, there's a recipe in this article to satisfy your cravings. Remember to select ripe plantains, control the heat carefully, and experiment with different seasonings to create delicious fried plantains that will impress your family and friends.