How to Make Caramelized Plantains

Plantains are smaller than bananas but have a similar texture.

Plantains are similar to bananas but are not eaten raw and are more like vegetables than fruit. They are commonly used in Caribbean, African and Latin American cooking. Caramelized plantains can be served as a side dish to any meal or as dessert topped with vanilla ice cream. If the plantains are even a bit green, allow them to ripen until the skin is brownish and fairly soft — the plantains will have a sweeter taste but will still be firm when cooked.

Things You'll Need

• 4 plantains, ripened
• 3 tbsp. butter
• Sugar
• Cinnamon
• Water or rum

Instructions

1. Peel and slice the plantains in long, thin strips. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tbsp. butter. Once the butter melts, place the plantain slices in the skillet and cook until browned, about five minutes. Lightly sprinkle the plantains with cinnamon and sugar.

2. Turn the plantain slices over and cook another five to 10 minutes. Add the remaining 1 tbsp. butter and sprinkle again with cinnamon and sugar.

3. Simmer until the skillet is almost dry, then add a splash of water or rum. Cover and continue to cook until the liquid evaporates.

Tips & Warnings

• Plantains can sometimes be found in regular supermarket, but you may have to buy them at a specialty store.

References

• Food Network: Smashed Caramelized Plantains
• Greb 'Em Snacks: What is a Plantain?

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish