Fried plantains are a popular side dish in many Caribbean countries, including Aruba. Plantains are a member of the banana family, but they are not as sweet and are typically used in savory dishes. When cooked, they have a starchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. Fried plantains are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this versatile ingredient.

Fried plantains are a staple in Aruban cuisine, often served as a side dish with meals such as stews, rice and beans, or grilled meats. They are also commonly eaten as a snack or appetizer, and can be found at many street vendors and restaurants throughout the island.The texture of fried plantains is unique - they are crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside. When cooked properly, they have a slightly sweet flavor that complements many savory dishes. The frying process caramelizes the natural sugars in the plantains, giving them a delicious golden brown color and a crunchy exterior.

One important aspect of making fried plantains is choosing the right plantains. Ripe plantains are best for frying because they are sweeter and have a softer texture. If the plantains are too green, they will be difficult to peel and will not have as much flavor. If they are too ripe, they will be too sweet and may fall apart during the frying process.

When frying plantains, it is important to use enough oil to fully submerge the slices. This ensures that they cook evenly and become crispy. It is also important not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the temperature of the oil to drop and result in soggy, greasy plantains.

In Aruba, fried plantains are often seasoned with salt, but they can also be flavored with other spices and seasonings such as garlic, cumin, or chili powder. They can also be served with a dipping sauce, such as aioli or a spicy mayo, to add even more flavor.

Overall, fried plantains are a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to make and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

To make fried plantains Aruba-style, you will need:

1- 2-3 ripe plantains

2- 1/4 cup vegetable oil

3- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step method:

1- Start by choosing ripe plantains. Look for plantains that are mostly black with a little bit of yellow or green. If the plantains are too green, they will be difficult to peel and will not have as much flavor. If they are too ripe, they will be too sweet and will not hold their shape well when cooked.

2- Peel the plantains. To do this, cut off the ends and score the skin lengthwise with a knife. Carefully peel the skin away from the flesh.

3- Slice the plantains into rounds, about 1/2 inch thick.

4- Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

5- Once the oil is hot, add the plantains to the pan. Do not overcrowd the pan - you may need to fry the plantains in batches.

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

7- Remove the plantains from the pan with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

8- Season the plantains with salt to taste.

Note:

Plantains can be fried until they are crispy and caramelized, or they can be cooked until they are soft and tender. It is up to personal preference.

Nutrition Facts:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients listed:

2-3 ripe plantains:

• Calories: Approximately 310-465 calories (per 2-3 ripe plantains)
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 80-120 grams (per 2-3 ripe plantains)
• Protein: Approximately 3-5 grams (per 2-3 ripe plantains)
• Fat: Approximately 0.5-2 grams (per 2-3 ripe plantains)
• Sodium: Varies, but naturally low in sodium
• Fiber: Approximately 6-12 grams (per 2-3 ripe plantains)

benefits:

• Rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel health.
• High in vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and skin health.
• Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
• Provides a good source of energy due to its carbohydrate content.

1/4 cup vegetable oil:

• Calories: Approximately 480 calories (per 1/4 cup vegetable oil)
• Carbohydrates: Negligible
• Protein: Negligible
• Fat: Approximately 54 grams (per 1/4 cup vegetable oil)
• Sodium: Negligible
• Fiber: Negligible

benefits:

• Contains heart-healthy fats that can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• May help improve cholesterol levels when used in place of saturated fats.
• Contains vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant and supports skin health.
• Provides essential fatty acids that are important for brain function and cell membrane structure.

It's important to note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors like the size of the plantains and the type of vegetable oil used. The nutritional content can also change if you use a different amount of oil for frying. Additionally, frying plantains can significantly increase the fat and calorie content compared to other cooking methods like baking or grilling.