Indulge in the authentic flavors of El Salvador with our mouthwatering Plátanos Fritos! Sliced ripe plantains are delicately fried to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to a tender, sweet interior. Each bite is a harmonious blend of caramelized sweetness and savory satisfaction, making it a beloved staple of Salvadoran cuisine. Enjoyed as a side dish, snack, or even dessert, these fried plantains are a true culinary delight that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of El Salvador.

Ingredients:

• Ripe plantains (1 or 2 per person)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Salt (optional, for seasoning)

Instructions:

1- Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into diagonal slices, about 1/2 inch thick.

2- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Make sure there's enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan and allow the plantains to fry evenly.

3- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the plantain slices to the pan in a single layer. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to fry the plantains in batches.

4- Fry the plantains for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and caramelized. Use tongs to flip them halfway through cooking.

5- Once the plantains are cooked to your desired level of crispiness and caramelization, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

6- Optionally, sprinkle the fried plantains with a pinch of salt while they are still hot for a savory contrast to their natural sweetness.

7- Serve the El Salvador Plátanos Fritos as a side dish alongside your favorite savory dishes, or enjoy them as a delicious dessert with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

8- Enjoy your authentic Salvadoran fried plantains!

Nutritional Values:

Ripe Plantains (1 medium-sized plantain):

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 31g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Vitamin C: 20% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin A: 20% DV
• Potassium: 450mg (13% DV)
• Iron: 4% DV

benefits

• High in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy.
• Good source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
• Rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
• Contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and promotes skin health.
• Provides vitamin A, essential for vision and immune function.
• Contains iron, supporting the production of red blood cells and preventing anemia.

Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
• No carbohydrates, fiber, sugars, or protein

benefits

• Provides essential fatty acids necessary for cell function and hormone production.
• Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
• Adds calories to the dish, providing energy.
• Helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, D, E, and K.
• Adds flavor and texture to fried foods.
• Can contribute to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

These values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as the size of the plantains used and the amount of oil absorbed during frying. Additionally, the nutritional values may change if you add any seasoning or toppings to the plátanos fritos.