Colombian Platanos Maduros Fritos - Fried Ripe Sweet Plantains

The Ultimate Colombian Breakfast

The ultimate Colombian breakfast typically includes a hearty combination of eggs, arepas (a traditional cornmeal flatbread), cheese, and coffee. Colombian coffee is known worldwide for its rich flavor and aroma, and is often enjoyed black or with milk. But to me, the best Colombian breakfast also includes a serving of platanos maduros fritos - pan fried sweet ripe plantains.

While some Colombians may lose their minds over a bandeja paisa (a plate filled with sausage, beans, eggs, arepa, chicharones and platanos), caldo (chicken broth), changua (a soup made with milk, eggs, and scallions), calentado (a mix of leftover rice and beans), and tamales (a savory pastry made with cornmeal, meat, and vegetables), I am 100% a maduros fritos kind of gal.

A traditional Colombian breakfast is the perfect way to start your day off strong, and will surely leave you feeling full and energized for the day ahead - and for me, fried plantains are the perfect sweet note on which to start your morning.

What Are Platanos Maduros?

 Platanos Maduros, also known as sweet plantains, are a type of ripe plantain that are commonly used in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. Plantains are a member of the banana family and are grown throughout the tropics. Unlike their familiar banana cousins, plantains are not typically eaten raw.

When a plantain is fully ripe, the skin will turn black and the fruit will be soft to the touch. For this recipe, you can use golden brown plantains. While the flavor of Platanos Maduros is sweet, it is much richer and slightly savory compared to that of a traditional banana. They are often sliced and fried or baked, and are a popular side dish to many Latin American and Caribbean meals.

Are sweet plantains good for you?

Plantains are a staple food in many parts of the world and can be eaten baked, air fryer or fried. Sweet plantains, in particular, are a favorite in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines. They are delicious in all preparations - but are they good for you?

The answer to that depends on how they are prepared. In its natural state, the plantain is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. However, when sweet plantains are fried, they can become high in saturated and trans fat, as well as high in calories.

So is the answer to abstain from eating this fried delicacy? Absolutely not! Moderation is key when it comes to enjoying fried sweet plantains. They can be a delicious addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, as a special treat.

And if you're looking for a healthier take on plantains, try them cooked in healthier ways, such as by baking plantains or air frying plantains.

How Are Platanos Maduros Cooked Across Latin America?

I may have presented this platanos maduros recipe as a Colombian dish - but Colombians are far from being the only Latin Americans to cook this delicacy! Platanos maduros, or ripe plantains, are a popular and versatile food item in many countries, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean. They can be cooked in a variety of ways, depending on the country and the preferences of the cook. 

In Puerto Rico, for example, platanos maduros are often fried and served with savory dishes like beans and rice, like in Colombia.

In the Dominican Republic, however, they are boiled and mashed, then served with sour cream and cheese. 

Anywhere you go in South America, you are likely to come across a unique preparation for platanos maduros!

What’s the Difference Between Plantains and Bananas?

While they may look similar, there are distinct differences between plantains and bananas. Bananas are often consumed raw and are sweet when ripe, while plantains are typically cooked and have a starchy flavor.

Ripe bananas have a yellow or red skin and are sweet, while plantains are usually eaten and cooked when green, yellow or black. Plantains have a thicker peel than bananas and can be a bit more challenging to prep. However, they are a popular ingredient in many cuisines and are commonly fried or made into chips.

Overall, both plantains and bananas have their unique qualities and can add a delicious touch to any dish.

Why You’ll Love These Fried Plantains

 If you've never tried fried plantains before, you're in for a delicious treat! This fried plantains recipe is:

• crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside
• sweet and soft
• perfect with savory foods like breakfast sausages or eggs
• delicious for breakfast
• great when served alongside main dishes
• makes a great snack on its own
• versatile - you can add sweet or savory flavors depending on your preference

What can I serve sweet baked plantains with?

This is versatile side dish that can elevate almost any meal.

Like a true Colombian, I like to serve fried plantains for breakfast. Colombian Jews also make them for Hanukkah, alongside plantain latkes.

Serve this Colombian plantains recipe with:

• Colombian chicken drumsticks
• Colombian Ajiaco
• Eggs
• Rice (like in this rice and lentils recipe).
• Beans 
• Avocado
• A hearty stew

Why serve fried plantains with cheese?

One popular way to serve fried plantains in Colombia is to top them with cheese. This combination of sweet and salty flavors creates a unique taste experience that many people find irresistible.

The crispy texture of the fried plantains contrasts with the soft and gooey cheese, adding an interesting texture to the dish.

Adding cheese to fried plantains not only enhances the flavor but also provides protein and calcium.

Overall, serving fried plantains with cheese is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is enjoyed by many Colombian households.

Ingredients

• Ripe plantains - as stated, this recipe uses platanos maduros - ripe plantains. Choose plantains that are golden brown in spots and have some give when you press on them. 
• Vegetable oil, for frying - you can use Canola oil, grapeseed oil or vegetable oil.
• Salt, to taste
• Cotija, Queso fresco or mozzarella, for serving (optional) - when served for breakfast in Colombia, fried plantains are usually served plain. But for an extra special treat, my Colombian husband likes to sprinkle them with some grated cheese. We recommend using cotija cheese or feta for a salty contrast, or queso fresco or mozzarella for a more melty, cheese-pulling experience. Let the cheese sit on the hot plantains for a few minutes before digging in to maximize your pleasure. 

Equipment

• Small pan
• Spatula
• cheese grater optional

Peel plantains

Trim the edges of the plantain. To remove the peel, make lengthwise cuts on the skin without harming the fruit. Finally, use your fingers to strip off the peel.

How to cut a sweet plantain for maduros

Slice the plantain into circles that are approximately ½ inch thick.

Fry plantains

Preheat a large pan to medium heat. Add oil.  Transfer slices to a large pan, and cover with enough vegetable oil to cover. Fry until plantain slices are golden-brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove onto a paper-towel-lined plate, sprinkle with salt (or sugar and cinnamon for a sweet treat).

Serve fried plantains

Serve platanos maduros fritos immediately, as part of a breakfast or with the main dish of your choice. Sprinkle with queso fresco or feta for a sweet-salty contrast, or grated queso fresco or mozzarella for a more gooey treat. 

Variations

Sweet fried plantains: Sprinkle these plantains after frying with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat

Tangy fried plantains: Drizzle them with salt and lime juice as a savory snack.