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Grenadian Fried Ripe Plantains

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

  • 3 large (3 large) ripe plantains (yellow-black skin)
  • 60 ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil
  • A pinch (a pinch) salt

Method

  1. Peel plantains and slice diagonally into pieces about 1.5 cm (1/2 in) thick.
  2. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
  3. Fry plantain slices 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden brown and caramelised at the edges.
  4. Remove and drain on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt if desired.

Introduction: Sweet fried plantains are a universal Caribbean side, and in Grenada they're often the final touch on a plate of oil down or stewed meat, prized for their caramelised sweetness.

Cultural Background: Sweet fried plantains are a universal Caribbean side, and in Grenada they're often the final touch on a plate of oil down or stewed meat, prized for their caramelised sweetness.

Tips: Use plantains that are very ripe, with fully black or heavily speckled skin, for maximum natural sweetness. Keep the heat at medium — too high burns the sugars before the inside softens.

Variations: Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving for a spiced touch. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes, flipping once, as a lower-oil alternative.

Storage: Best fresh; refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days in an airtight container.

Reheating: Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes per side to restore some caramelisation.

Nutrition: Approx. 180 kcal, 1 g protein, 7 g fat, 30 g carbohydrate per serving.

FAQs:

Q: Why are my plantains not sweet?

A: They were likely underripe; wait until the skin is mostly black for best sweetness.

Q: Can green plantains be used instead?

A: Yes, but they will taste starchy rather than sweet — more like the base for tostones.