Maduros
Sweet Fried Plantains
Maduros are a beloved Cuban side dish made from ripe plantains fried until they are deeply caramelized, sweet, and tender. They offer a delightful contrast to savory dishes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 Very ripe plantains(Look for plantains with completely black skin. This indicates they are sweet enough for maduros. Avoid green or yellow plantains.)
- 1/2 cup Vegetable oil or other neutral high-heat oil(Such as canola, sunflower, or peanut oil. Enough to generously coat the bottom of the pan.)
- pinch Salt(Optional, for serving. Enhances sweetness.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the plantains: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the ends of the plantains. Make a shallow slit lengthwise down the skin of each plantain. Gently peel away the skin. Slice the peeled plantains on a diagonal (bias) into pieces approximately 1/2 inch thick.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Heat the oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet or frying pan. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and a small piece of plantain sizzles immediately upon contact. The target temperature is around 350°F (175°C).
⏱️ 3-5 minutes - 3
Fry the plantains: Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to fry in batches. Fry for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the plantains are deeply golden brown and caramelized on both sides. They should be tender and slightly puffed.
⏱️ 6-8 minutes - 4
Drain and season: Remove the fried plantains from the skillet using a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with a pinch of salt, if desired, while they are still warm. This enhances their natural sweetness.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The ripeness of the plantains is crucial for sweet maduros. The skin should be almost entirely black and feel soft to the touch.
- ✓Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a consistent frying temperature. Too low, and they'll be greasy; too high, and they'll burn before caramelizing.
- ✓Maduros are best served immediately while warm and caramelized. They are a perfect accompaniment to savory Cuban dishes like Ropa Vieja, Arroz con Pollo, or black beans and rice.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Baked Maduros: For a lighter version, bake slices coated in a little oil and cinnamon at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Toss warm maduros with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before serving.
- Savory Twist: Some variations omit the sugar and serve them with a sprinkle of chili powder or lime zest.