Discover how to make delicious Fried Plantains (Amatunda) with this easy recipe. Sliced plantains are fried until golden brown for a crispy, sweet treat that's perfect as a side dish or a snack. Enjoy the simple flavors and satisfying crunch of this versatile dish!

Ingredients:

- 3 ripe plantains

- 1 cup vegetable oil (or enough to cover the plantains in the pan)

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon sugar or cinnamon for extra sweetness

Instructions:

Prepare the Plantains:

  - Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into 1/4-inch thick pieces. The diagonal cut helps to ensure even frying and a pleasing presentation.

Heat the Oil:

  - In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the plantains halfway.

Fry the Plantains:

  - Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping a small piece of plantain in to see if it sizzles), carefully add the plantain slices in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they cook evenly.

  - Fry the plantains for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Season:

  - Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried plantains to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

  - While still hot, sprinkle with salt, and optionally, a bit of sugar or cinnamon for added flavor.

Serve:

  - Enjoy your crispy fried plantains hot as a snack or as a delightful side dish to accompany your favorite meals. 

Nutritional Values

Ripe Plantains (3 plantains)

  - About 220 calories

  - 0.5 grams of fat

  - 57 grams of carbohydrates

  - 2 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in potassium, dietary fiber, and vitamins A and C. Provides a good source of energy and supports digestive health.

Vegetable Oil (1 cup)

  - About 2,000 calories

  - 224 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0 grams of protein

Benefits: Used for frying, adding crispiness to the plantains. Contains essential fatty acids but should be used in moderation due to high calorie and fat content.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon)

  - About 0 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0 grams of protein

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Optional: Sugar (1/2 teaspoon)

  - About 8 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 2 grams of carbohydrates (all sugars)

  - 0 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds sweetness. Use sparingly to manage added sugar intake.

Optional: Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon)

  - About 3 calories

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.1 grams of protein

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Adds flavor and may help with blood sugar regulation.