Peruvian fried plantains are a delicious side dish or even a meal on their own, depending on your preference. These starchy delights, often sliced and fried similar to French fries, make for an excellent accompaniment to many Peruvian dishes. Once you start eating them, it’s hard to stop at just a few. They pair wonderfully with proteins or salads and are a popular choice throughout Peru.
Simple to Make, Delicious to Eat
Cooking plantains (known as plátanos in Spanish) is quite easy. Their preparation is a staple in many Latin American households, often ready in just 10 minutes. Whether served as a side or a snack, fried plantains are incredibly versatile and are enjoyed across various cultures. In Peru, they are commonly served alongside meals like lomo a lo pobre or ceviche de pulpo.
Choosing the right ripeness is crucial when preparing plantains. If they are green, they are better suited for making tostones. For fried plantains, you want them ripe but not too soft. The sweetest ones are used to make maduros, which sometimes include added sugar for a sweeter taste, though they can still complement savory dishes.
Healthier Options and Variations
While frying is the traditional method, healthier alternatives can be considered. Swapping out corn oil for olive oil (avoid extra virgin olive oil due to its low smoke point) or coconut oil can offer different flavors. Baked plantains are also a popular street food in Peru, offering a less oily but equally tasty option. Though, there’s no denying that the fried version delivers a crispy, satisfying texture.
How to Enjoy Fried Plantains
These plantains can be enjoyed on their own, but they really shine when paired with savory dishes. For a true Peruvian experience, serve them with arroz tapado, or the Afro-Peruvian dish tacu tacu. Whether you’re indulging in them as a snack or as a side dish, these fried plantains are a must-try.
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe plantains
- 1 cup vegetable oil (corn oil is traditional)
- Absorbent paper or paper towel for draining
Instructions:
- Prepare the Plantains: Choose ripe but firm plantains with black spots on the peel. Cut off both ends of the plantain. Use a knife to make a slit along the skin and peel it off. Repeat for all plantains.
- Cut into Slices: Slice the plantains crosswise into halves, then slice each half lengthwise into 3 or 4 pieces. Aim for slices about 6-8 mm thick for even cooking.
- Fry the Plantains: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil begins to bubble, add the plantain slices. Fry for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked slices to a plate lined with absorbent paper to soak up excess oil. Serve as a side or enjoy with your favorite toppings like grated cheese, beans, or sour cream.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 713
- Fat: 57g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Protein: 2g
This simple yet flavorful dish can be a delightful part of any Peruvian meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside traditional dishes or just snacking on them, fried plantains are a must-try staple of Peruvian food.
FAQs About Peruvian Fried Plantains:
1. What are Peruvian fried plantains?
Peruvian fried plantains are slices of ripe plantains fried until golden and crispy, often served as a side dish or snack. They have a slightly sweet and savory taste and pair well with many Peruvian meals.
2. How do I know when plantains are ripe enough for frying?
Ripe plantains have yellow skin with black spots. They should be firm but soft enough to press gently. The riper they are, the sweeter they become, which is perfect for frying.
3. Can I bake plantains instead of frying them?
Yes, baked plantains are a healthier alternative. Simply slice the plantains, brush them with oil, and bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. What oil is best for frying plantains?
Corn oil is traditionally used for frying plantains, but you can also use vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or coconut oil for a different flavor. Avoid extra virgin olive oil as it doesn’t withstand high heat well.
5. Can plantains be eaten raw?
No, plantains are not meant to be eaten raw. They are starchy and need to be cooked, either by frying, baking, or boiling.
6. What dishes go well with fried plantains?
Fried plantains are versatile and can be served with dishes like lomo a lo pobre, ceviche de pulpo, arroz tapado, or tacu tacu. They also make a great snack on their own.
7. Are fried plantains healthy?
Fried plantains can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. While they are rich in potassium and fiber, frying adds extra calories and fat. Baking them can be a healthier option.
8. Can I use green plantains for frying?
Green plantains are typically used to make tostones (twice-fried plantains). For regular fried plantains, you should use ripe plantains, which have a sweeter taste and softer texture.
9. How do Peruvian fried plantains differ from bananas?
Although plantains and bananas look similar, plantains are starchier and less sweet than bananas. Plantains are usually cooked before eating, while bananas are typically eaten raw. Fried plantains have a savory-sweet balance, making them perfect for main dishes, while bananas are sweeter and used more for desserts.
10. Can I store leftover fried plantains?
Yes, you can store leftover fried plantains in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
11. Are fried plantains vegan-friendly?
Yes, fried plantains are naturally vegan and vegetarian, as they only require plantains and oil. You can serve them with vegan-friendly sides like beans or avocado.
12. What toppings can I add to fried plantains?
You can get creative with your toppings! Some popular options include grated cheese, sour cream, beans, garlic dipping sauce, or even a sprinkle of sea salt. For a sweet twist, you can drizzle them with honey or cinnamon.
13. Can I make fried plantains in an air fryer?
Yes, an air fryer can be used to make a healthier version of fried plantains. Simply brush the slices with oil and cook them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
14. Do plantains have any nutritional benefits?
Yes, plantains are a good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamins A and C. They provide essential nutrients while being relatively low in fat, especially when baked or air-fried.
15. What is the difference between tostones and fried plantains?
Tostones are made from green, unripe plantains that are fried, smashed, and fried again, resulting in a crispy texture. Fried plantains, on the other hand, use ripe plantains and are fried only once, giving them a sweeter and softer texture.
16. Can I make fried plantains with overripe plantains?
Yes, overripe plantains can be used to make maduros, a sweeter variation of fried plantains. The sugars in the overripe fruit caramelize during frying, resulting in a rich, sweet flavor.