Amarillos (FRIED SWEET PLANTAINS) Recipe

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Amarillos, for those who may not know, are ripe plantains that are beautifully fried to make a rich, caramelized and comforting dish. Hailing from the Caribbean and Latin America, this tasty treat has been a staple in my family for generations, brightening up our meals and gatherings with a golden touch.

And now, the recipe that has been passed down in my family and cherished by so many will soon become a beloved addition to your home too.

How to make Amarillos

Amarillos is the culinary delight that adds a tropical twist to your plate! Also known as plantains, these are not your everyday bananas. They’re larger, starchier, and bring a unique flavor to the table.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil or canola oil
• Salt to taste
• Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or brown sugar for an added flavor kick

Instructions

1. Peel the Plantains: First things first, peel your plantains. They can be a bit tricky due to their thick skin. Cut off both ends, make a slit along the side, and peel the skin off.
2. Slice the Plantains: Slice the peeled plantains diagonally into 1/2-inch slices. This shape gives more surface area for caramelization.
3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the Plantains: When the oil is hot, add the sliced plantains in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan; you may have to work in batches.
5. Golden Brown Perfection: Fry the plantains for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.
6. Drain and Season: Remove the fried plantains from the skillet and drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle with a little salt while they’re still hot. If you’re using cinnamon or brown sugar, now is the perfect time to sprinkle them on.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Amarillos can be served as a side dish or even as a dessert. Enjoy them while they are still warm!

Helpful Tips

1. Regulating the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat as you fry. If it’s too hot, the outside of the plantains will burn while the inside remains uncooked. If it’s too low, they will soak up too much oil and become greasy. The ideal scenario is a steady medium-high heat.
2. Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors. You can sprinkle a little brown sugar or cinnamon on the plantains for a sweeter version. For a savory twist, sprinkle them with a bit of crumbled cheese.

What to serve with?

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: The sweet and slightly caramelized flavor of fried plantains complements the savory taste of grilled chicken or fish.
• Stews and Curries: Fried plantains can be served alongside hearty stews or flavorful curries, adding a sweet contrast to the rich and spicy flavors.
• A classic combination: Pair Fried plantains with a side of rice and beans. The sweetness of the amarillos balances well with the savory rice and protein-packed beans.
• Braised or Roasted Meats: Whether it’s beef, pork, or lamb, Fried plantains can be a tasty side dish to roasted or braised meats.
• Cheese Platter: Serve amarillos with a variety of cheeses for a delightful appetizer or snack.
• Dips: Consider pairing them with savory dips like guacamole, black bean dip, or a tangy salsa.
• Eggs and Amarillos: Cooked plantains can make a sweet addition to your breakfast, especially when served with eggs, bacon, or sausage.
• Burger Toppings: Use sliced or mashed Fried plantains as a unique and tasty topping for burgers.
• Wraps: Include Fried plantains in wraps or sandwiches for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Fruit Salads: Incorporate amarillos into fruit salads for a tropical twist.
• Mixed Greens: Add sliced plantains to mixed green salads for a sweet and savory combination.
• Sweet Plantain Desserts: While Fried plantains are typically associated with savory dishes, ripe plantains can be used in desserts. Try making plantain fritters, plantain cakes, or even grilled plantains with a drizzle of honey for a sweet treat.

FAQ

Final Thoughts

It’s not a bad idea to make the batter ahead of time, so that you’ll be ready in no time once you’re craving some crunchy amarillos. If you’re gluten-free, that recipe makes a great alternative to traditional fried plantains.