👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Peel the ripe plantains and slice them diagonally into approximately 1/4-inch thick pieces. Ensure the plantains are very ripe (yellow with black spots) for maximum sweetness.

   💡 Tip: Using very ripe plantains is key to achieving the sweet, caramelized flavor.
2. 2

   Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.

   💡 Tip: Test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of plantain; it should sizzle immediately.
3. 3

   Carefully place the plantain slices in the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.

   💡 Tip: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy tajadas.
4. 4

   Fry the plantain slices for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and caramelized. Flip them gently with tongs.

   ⏱️ 6-10 minutes per batch

   💡 Tip: Watch closely as they can go from golden to burnt quickly due to their sugar content.
5. 5

   Remove the fried tajadas from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

   💡 Tip: Draining on paper towels helps to keep them crispy.
6. 6

   If desired, lightly sprinkle the warm tajadas with a pinch of salt.

   💡 Tip: Salt enhances the sweetness of the plantains.
7. 7

   Serve the warm tajadas immediately with crumbled or sliced Nicaraguan cheese on the side or on top.

   💡 Tip: The contrast between the warm, sweet tajadas and the cool, salty cheese is delightful.