Jamaica | Appetizers | Desserts | Plantains | Deep Frying

Plantain Fritters

(Jamaican fried plantains)

Yield: 4-6 servings


INGREDIENTS PREP AMOUNT
Plantains, ripe 3 each
Baking powder 2 tsp
Salt or sugar (see variation notes) 1 tsp or 2 tsp
 
Oil for deep frying

METHOD

  1. Steam or boil the plantains in their skins for about 15 minutes till soft. Peel, place in large bowl and mash well. Allow to cool somewhat.
  2. Stir baking powder and salt or sugar (see variations) into the mashed plantains. Form into 1 1/2" balls with wet hands and flatten slightly.
  3. Heat about 1" of oil a large pot or in a deep fryer to about 365-375°F. Fry fritters till browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve.

VARIATIONS

  • Use sugar for sweet fritters and serve as a dessert or snack sprinkled with powdered sugar. Sweet fritters will brown more quickly than savory due to the higher sugar content.
  • Use salt for savory fritters as a side dish and serve with chutney.
  • Add minced chili pepper, minced garlic, or minced onion to savory fritters if you like.
  • A little flour or a beaten egg is sometimes mixed in.

NOTES

  • Plantain fritters are popular in many tropical cuisines. They are found throughout the Caribbean and are also popular in the Phillipines.
  • Be sure to use plantains whose skin is turning black. If they are not ripe enough, the plantains will be too starchy.