18 Delicious Plantain Recipes for Every Occasion

Ready to spice up your cooking routine with something wonderfully versatile? Plantains are the star of the show in these 18 Delicious Plantain Recipes for Every Occasion, offering a perfect blend of sweet and savory that’ll delight your taste buds. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a festive gathering, we’ve got a plantain dish that’ll make every meal memorable. Let’s dive in!

Fried Sweet Plantains

Fried sweet plantains are a delightful treat that brings a touch of tropical sweetness to your table, perfect for those who love a caramelized, tender bite.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains (yellow with black spots)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

1. Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Add the plantain slices in a single layer and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon brown sugar.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and caramelized.
5. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

The magic of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness, with a crispy exterior giving way to a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center.

Tip: For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle with a little honey or sprinkle with cinnamon right after frying.

Plantain Chips

Craving something crunchy with a hint of sweetness? These homemade plantain chips are your answer, offering a perfect balance of crispness and natural flavor that store-bought versions just can’t match.

Ingredients

• 2 green plantains
• 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Peel the plantains and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick, using a mandoline or sharp knife for even slices.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, fry the plantain slices for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate.
4. While still warm, sprinkle the chips with salt and smoked paprika, tossing gently to coat evenly.

The magic of these chips lies in their dual texture—crispy on the outside with a slight chewiness inside, thanks to the green plantains. They’re a snack that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

Baked Plantain Fries

Craving something crispy with a sweet twist? These baked plantain fries are your answer, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fries without skimping on flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel the plantains and cut them into fry-shaped strips, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. In a large bowl, toss the plantain strips with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika until evenly coated.
4. Spread the plantain fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch for maximum crispiness.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy on the edges.

The magic of these fries lies in their contrast: crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with a smoky-sweet flavor that’s irresistibly moreish.

Tip: For an extra kick, sprinkle with chili powder before baking or serve with a spicy mayo dip.

Plantain Pancakes

Start your morning with a tropical twist by whipping up these fluffy Plantain Pancakes, a delightful way to bring a piece of the Caribbean to your breakfast table.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe plantain, mashed (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
2. In another bowl, mix the mashed plantain, 1 cup milk, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Let the batter sit for 5 minutes.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with your favorite syrup or fresh fruit.

These pancakes stand out with their naturally sweet flavor and moist texture, thanks to the ripe plantain, making them a hit for both kids and adults alike.

Tip: For extra fluffy pancakes, separate the egg and beat the white until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the batter last.

Plantain Bread

Who knew plantains could make such a moist and flavorful bread? This Plantain Bread is a delightful twist on the classic, offering a subtly sweet and rich taste that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, mashed (about 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed plantains, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

The natural sweetness of ripe plantains gives this bread a unique flavor and moist texture that stands out from traditional banana bread.

Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the cooled bread with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

Grilled Plantains with Honey

Grilled plantains with honey are a sweet, caramelized treat that’s perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy indoor grill session. Here’s how to make them irresistibly golden and sticky-sweet.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, honey, ground cinnamon, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of the plantain slices with the honey-butter mixture.
4. Grill the plantains for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they have deep grill marks and are caramelized around the edges.
5. Remove from the grill and drizzle with any remaining honey-butter mixture before serving.

The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the smoky grill marks and the sweet, spiced honey glaze—a combo that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Tip: For an extra indulgent twist, serve these grilled plantains with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Plantain and Black Bean Tacos

These Plantain and Black Bean Tacos are a delightful twist on taco night, combining sweet, caramelized plantains with hearty black beans for a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add plantains and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are heated through and spices are fragrant.
3. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
4. To assemble tacos, spread a layer of black beans on each tortilla, top with caramelized plantains, and garnish with cilantro, queso fresco, and a squeeze of lime juice.

The contrast between the sweet plantains and smoky black beans creates a taco that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for when you’re craving something a little different on taco night!

Tip: For an extra kick, add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder to your tacos before serving.

Stuffed Plantains with Cheese

These Stuffed Plantains with Cheese are a delightful twist on a classic, offering a perfect blend of sweet and savory that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Peel the plantains and cut them in half lengthwise, then scoop out a small portion from the center to create a well.
3. In a bowl, mix together the mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika until well combined.
4. Stuff each plantain half with the cheese mixture, then brush the outside with melted butter.
5. Place the stuffed plantains in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the plantains are tender and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

The contrast between the creamy, spicy cheese and the sweet, soft plantains creates a mouthwatering dish that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the stuffed plantains before baking.

Plantain Curry

Dive into the comforting warmth of this Plantain Curry, a dish that beautifully balances sweetness with a hint of spice, perfect for those cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute until the spices are toasted and aromatic.
3. Add the plantains to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15 minutes, or until the plantains are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the plantains’ ability to soak up the rich, spiced coconut sauce, offering a delightful contrast of textures in every bite.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the curry powder in a dry pan for a minute before adding it to the dish.

Plantain Soup

Warm up with this comforting Plantain Soup, a creamy and slightly sweet dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the sliced plantains, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until plantains are very soft.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
5. Stir in 1/2 cup coconut milk and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

The natural sweetness of ripe plantains pairs beautifully with the savory spices, creating a soup that’s both nourishing and indulgent.

Tip: For a chunkier texture, reserve some cooked plantain slices before blending and stir them back in at the end.

Plantain and Chicken Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Plantain and Chicken Stew, a comforting dish that blends sweet and savory flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in plantains, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
4. Return chicken to the pot. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and plantains are tender.
5. Stir in cilantro before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the caramelized plantains, which add a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the smoky spices.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try browning the plantains in a separate pan before adding them to the stew.

Sweet Plantain Pie

Sweet Plantain Pie is a delightful twist on traditional pie, combining the natural sweetness of ripe plantains with a buttery crust for a dessert that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the flour and butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until a dough forms. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Arrange the sliced plantains over the dough. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Cover with another layer of rolled-out dough or create a lattice top. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the plantains are tender.

The caramelized plantains paired with the spiced, flaky crust create a dessert that’s both comforting and exotic. Perfect for those who love to explore global flavors in their baking.

Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle with honey before serving.

Plantain Muffins

These Plantain Muffins are a delightful twist on the classic, offering a moist texture and a subtly sweet flavor that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, mashed (about 1 cup)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the mashed plantains, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/4 cup milk, and 1 large egg until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

The natural sweetness of ripe plantains reduces the need for excess sugar, making these muffins a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the muffins before baking.

Plantain and Shrimp Skewers

These Plantain and Shrimp Skewers are a tropical twist on the classic barbecue favorite, combining sweet, caramelized plantains with juicy, seasoned shrimp for a dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
2. In a large bowl, toss the plantain chunks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until lightly coated.
3. In another bowl, combine the shrimp with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Mix well to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.
4. Thread the plantain chunks and shrimp onto the skewers, alternating between them.
5. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the plantains have nice grill marks.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired.

The contrast between the sweet, soft plantains and the spicy, tender shrimp creates a flavor explosion that’s both unexpected and utterly delightful.

Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Plantain Lasagna

Who says lasagna has to be traditional? This Plantain Lasagna swaps noodles for sweet, caramelized plantains, offering a delightful twist on the classic comfort food.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced lengthwise
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. In a baking dish, layer half of the plantain slices at the bottom. Spread half of the cooked beef over the plantains, followed by half of the marinara sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

The natural sweetness of the plantains pairs beautifully with the savory beef and cheeses, creating a lasagna that’s unexpectedly harmonious. The layers meld together in the oven, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the lasagna for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Plantain and Avocado Salad

This Plantain and Avocado Salad is a vibrant, tropical twist on your usual greens, combining sweet, caramelized plantains with creamy avocado for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 large avocado, diced
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cumin

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the plantains and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, avocado, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and cumin to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Top the salad with the caramelized plantains and serve immediately.

The contrast between the sweet plantains and the creamy avocado makes this salad a standout, perfect for those who love a mix of textures and flavors in their meals.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top before serving.

Spicy Plantain Stir Fry

Spice up your weeknight dinner with this vibrant Spicy Plantain Stir Fry, a dish that brings a delightful kick and sweetness to your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the plantain rounds and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the sliced red onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
3. Add 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Return the plantains to the skillet. Stir everything together gently and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine the flavors. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

The caramelized edges of the plantains paired with the spicy, aromatic veggies create a stir fry that’s irresistibly flavorful with just the right amount of heat.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle with a little lime juice before serving.

Plantain Smoothie Bowl

Start your morning with a tropical twist by blending up this creamy Plantain Smoothie Bowl, packed with natural sweetness and a hint of spice.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe plantain, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1/4 cup granola
• 1 tbsp shredded coconut

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the sliced plantain, frozen mango, almond milk, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Blend on high until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
2. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and sprinkle the top with chia seeds, granola, and shredded coconut.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, tropical flavors paired with the satisfying crunch of granola.

The combination of warm spices with the natural sweetness of plantain and mango creates a breakfast bowl that feels like a dessert but fuels you like a meal.

Tip: For an extra thick smoothie bowl, freeze the plantain slices for at least 2 hours before blending.

Conclusion

From sweet to savory, these 18 plantain recipes offer something for every taste and occasion. We hope this roundup inspires you to explore the versatility of plantains in your kitchen. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest to spread the plantain love. Happy cooking!