18 Delicious Plantains Recipes for Every Occasion

Are you looking for a delicious and versatile ingredient to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the humble plantain! While they may not be as widely known as their banana cousins, plantains are a staple in many Latin American cuisines and offer a wide range of flavors and textures. From sweet treats like pancakes and brownies to savory dishes like stir-fries and curries, plantains can do it all.

In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious plantain recipes that will have you experimenting with new flavors and cooking techniques in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s get started!

Fried Sweet Plantains

Sweet plantains are a staple in many Latin American cuisines, and when fried to perfection, they become an irresistible snack or side dish. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the plantains while adding a satisfying crunch from the frying process.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 ripe sweet plantains
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Carefully place 2-3 plantain slices into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the skillet.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the fried plantains from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes for all the plantain slices. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Plantain Chips with Spicy Dip

Elevate your snack game with these crispy plantain chips paired with a spicy and creamy dip.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe plantains
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
2. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Fry the plantain slices in batches until they’re golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chips from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, sriracha sauce, and lime juice.
6. Serve the plantain chips with the spicy dip and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of batches)

Plantain and Black Bean Tacos

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of plantains with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, optional

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the black beans and cumin, cooking for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a separate pan, grill the plantain slices over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until caramelized.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing black bean mixture onto a tortilla, topping with grilled plantains, and finishing with shredded cheese (if using).

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Plantain Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Get ready for a sweet and savory twist on traditional pancakes! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of plantains with the richness of maple syrup, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe plantains, peeled and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, salt, and sugar.
2. Add mashed plantains, milk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
5. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Grilled Plantains with Cinnamon Butter

Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory combination of grilled plantains paired with a rich cinnamon butter.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and ground cinnamon until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of plantain slices with the cinnamon butter mixture.
4. Place plantain slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes

Plantain and Shrimp Stir-Fry

This Caribbean-inspired dish combines sweet plantains with succulent shrimp in a savory stir-fry, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side; remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, then sauté onion, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add sliced plantains to the pan and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they start to caramelize.
5. Return cooked shrimp to the pan and stir in red pepper flakes (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Plantain Lasagna with Cheese

This plantain lasagna recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe plantains with the creamy richness of melted cheese, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional lasagna.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 ripe plantains
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the plantains into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Cook the plantain slices until they’re golden brown and tender, about 5 minutes per side.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the beaten egg and a pinch of salt.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of cooked plantains in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with a third of the mozzarella cheese, followed by a third of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Plantain and Chicken Curry

A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the natural sweetness of plantains, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 ripe plantains, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add plantains, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; stir to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the plantains are tender.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Plantain Fritters with Honey Drizzle

Experience the tropical flavor of plantains in a crispy fritter, perfectly balanced by a drizzle of warm honey. This sweet treat is perfect for snacking or as a dessert.

Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey, warmed (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Dip each plantain round into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry the coated plantain slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Warm honey by microwaving it for 10 seconds or placing the jar in a warm water bath.
8. Drizzle warmed honey over the plantain fritters and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Plantain and Avocado Salad

This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of ripe avocados with the subtle sweetness of plantains, perfect for a light and healthy snack or lunch.

Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced plantains and diced avocado.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with salt to taste.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
4. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Stuffed Plantains with Ground Beef

This Caribbean-inspired recipe combines sweet plantains with savory ground beef, creating a flavorful and filling snack or meal. Perfect for any occasion, these stuffed plantains are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4 ripe plantains
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel the plantains and cut a slit down one side of each to create a pocket.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each plantain with the beef mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Place the stuffed plantains on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with oil or butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the plantains are caramelized and the filling is hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Plantain and Coconut Milk Soup

This creamy Plantain and Coconut Milk Soup is a delightful twist on traditional soups, blending the sweetness of ripe plantains with the richness of coconut milk.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 ripe plantains
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel the plantains and chop them into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
3. Add the chopped plantains, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the plantains are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Plantain and Cheese Empanadas

These empanadas combine the sweetness of ripe plantains with the creaminess of melted cheese, wrapped in a crispy pastry. Perfect for a snack or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 2 large ripe plantains
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. Roll out the empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Place a spoonful of shredded cheese in the center of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add 2-3 slices of plantain on top of the cheese.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape, and press the edges to seal.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Plantain and Spinach Quiche

Elevate your brunch game with this innovative quiche recipe that combines the sweetness of plantains with the earthiness of spinach. This unique fusion will become a new favorite!

Ingredients:

– 1 large plantain, sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the plantain slices until caramelized, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
5. Whisk eggs with heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Arrange the cooked plantain mixture in a pie crust.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the plantains.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Plantain and Pineapple Smoothie

Combine the sweetness of pineapple with the earthy flavor of plantain for a refreshing and nutritious smoothie.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe plantains, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup coconut water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine chopped plantains, pineapple chunks, and banana slices.
2. Add coconut water and honey to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until frosty.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Enjoy your Tropical Bliss Smoothie as a healthy snack or post-workout treat!

Plantain and Chorizo Skewers

Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful skewers that combine the sweetness of plantains with the spicy kick of chorizo. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

– 4 ripe plantains, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 8 oz chorizo sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick strips
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 small onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Olive oil for brushing
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread plantain chunks, chorizo strips, red bell pepper pieces, and onion wedges onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until plantains are caramelized and chorizo is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with additional garlic on the side (optional).

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Plantain and Mango Salsa

This sweet and tangy salsa combines the creamy texture of plantains with the juicy sweetness of mangoes, perfect for topping tacos or grilled meats.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe plantains
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
3. Place the plantain slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re caramelized and tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine the roasted plantains, mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, cilantro leaves, and lime juice.
5. Mix well to combine, then season with salt to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including roasting time)

Plantain and Chocolate Brownies

These decadent brownies combine the natural sweetness of plantains with the richness of dark chocolate, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe plantains, mashed
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in mashed plantains, then the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler; stir into batter. Fold in walnuts, if using.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Discover 18 mouth-watering plantain recipes to elevate your cooking game! From sweet treats like Plantain Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Plantain Fritters with Honey Drizzle, to savory dishes such as Grilled Plantains with Cinnamon Butter and Plantain and Shrimp Stir-Fry, there’s something for every occasion. Enjoy international flavors like Caribbean-inspired Plantain Lasagna with Cheese and Mexican-style Plantain Tacos, or try your hand at creative twists like Plantain and Avocado Salad and Plantain and Mango Salsa. Whether you’re a plantain newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes are sure to delight!