Description
Deliciously sweet and tender fried sweet plantains coated with cinnamon sugar and fried to a golden brown in butter. This easy recipe makes for a perfect side dish or snack with a lovely caramelized exterior and soft interior.
Ingredients
Sweet Plantains
- 2-3 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For Frying
- 3 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Prepare cinnamon sugar mix: In a flat plate with raised sides, combine the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly to create an even coating for the plantains.
- Coat plantains: Peel the plantains completely and cut each into 3 chunks. Roll these chunks over the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are well coated on all sides to infuse sweetness and spice.
- Slice plantains: Slice the cinnamon sugar coated plantains into rounds about 1/2 inch thick, ensuring that all slices are similar in size for even cooking.
- Melt butter: Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-low heat. Add the 3 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt completely, coating the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking and add rich flavor.
- Fry plantains: Place the plantain slices into the melted butter in a single layer. Fry each side for approximately 4-5 minutes, turning carefully to achieve an even golden brown crust. Maintain medium-low heat to avoid burning while ensuring the plantains are cooked through and tender.
- Drain and serve: Remove the fried plantains from the skillet and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate or wooden board to absorb excess butter. Optionally, sprinkle more cinnamon on top for an extra touch of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use ripe plantains (yellow with black spots) for sweetness and softness; green plantains will be starchy and less sweet.
- Ensure even slicing for uniform cooking.
- Cook on medium-low heat to prevent burning the sugar coating while allowing plantains to caramelize properly.
- Butter enhances flavor but can be substituted with oil for a different taste or dietary preference.
- Serve as a side dish with savory meals or as a sweet snack on its own.
