Get inspired with these easy and flavor-packed plantain recipes! Whether you’re baking, frying, or boiling, plantains are the ultimate comfort food with global flair.
Plantains are the starchy cousin of bananas and a total rockstar in kitchens around the world. They’re budget-friendly, super versatile, and can go sweet or savory depending on how ripe they are. In this post, I’ll cover what plantains are, how to use them, and round up some of the most popular plantain dishes—from crispy chips to comforting stews. Whether you’re eating Paleo, vegan, or just hungry, there’s something here for you.
What Are Plantains?
A plantain or “cooking banana” is a starchy fruit that is starchier and lower in sugar than a banana. It’s also not suitable for raw consumption (don’t try it!), unlike a banana, and is meant to be cooked or processed somehow prior to eating. Plantains grow in tropical climates like bananas, and are often referred to as the pasta and potatoes of the Caribbean, and are also popular in Latin American and African cuisines.
Plantains are high in complex carbs, fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. They’re naturally gluten-free and can fit into Paleo, vegan, and Whole30 diets, depending on how you cook them.
Green Plantain vs. Yellow Plantain
Green plantains are firm, starchy, and perfect for savory dishes like tostones or plantain chips. Yellow (ripe) plantains are softer and sweeter—great for things like maduros or baking into breads and desserts.
Where to Buy Plantains
Look for plantains in the produce section near bananas. Latin American, African, and Asian grocery stores usually have them year-round, and even big supermarkets are catching on these days.
Storage Tips
Let green plantains ripen on the counter if you want them sweeter. Once they’re ripe, you can pop them in the fridge to slow things down—or peel and freeze them for later.
Best Plantain Recipes & Dishes
Here’s a mix of classic and creative recipes you can make with plantains.
Baked Plantain Chips
Crispy, salty, and just the right amount of crunch – these baked plantain chips are the snack you didn’t know you needed. It’s an easy, healthy alternative to regular chips and even gluten-free and paleo-friendly. Say goodbye to store-bought! Recipe from Downshiftology.
Baked Tostones
These baked tostones bring the flavor without the grease. Get that crispy, golden outside with a soft, tender middle – all without deep-frying. They’re a healthier twist on the classic. Recipe from Cookie + Kate.
Coconut Sugar Caramelized Plantains
Sweet, caramelized, and perfect for dessert or breakfast, these coconut sugar plantains take your tastebuds on a tropical adventure. The sweet coconut sugar balances the natural sweetness of ripe plantains. Vegan and gluten-free too! Recipe from Minimalist Baker.
Oven Roasted Sweet Plantains
These oven-roasted sweet plantains are a caramelized dream with just a hint of cinnamon. Super easy to make and naturally sweet – these are the side dish that might steal the spotlight. Recipe from Food By Mars.
Easy Plantain Fufu From Scratch
Plantain fufu is an easy-to-make, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with stews or soups. This healthy, homemade version will impress your tastebuds. A dish to keep you coming back for more. Recipe from Jegbese.
Fufu De Platano
If you’re craving an authentic fufu experience, this fufu de platano will hit the spot. It’s soft, starchy, and perfect for scooping up your favorite stew. Recipe from A Sassy Spoon.
Chorizo & Ripe Plantain Hash
This chorizo and ripe plantain hash packs bold flavors in every bite. The savory chorizo combined with sweet plantains makes it a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch dish. Recipe from Laylita’s Recipes.
Caribbean Plantain And Beef Hash
Caribbean spices and tender plantains are the stars in this beef hash. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re on an island. The hearty beef and sweet plantains make a great pair for any meal of the day. Recipe from Heal Me Delicious.
Stuffed Plantains
When plantains become the vessel for all your favorite fillings, you know you’re in for a treat. These stuffed plantains are perfect for a savory and slightly sweet dish. You won’t believe how easy they are to make! Recipe from A Dash of Dolly.
Black Bean Plantain Enchilada Bake
This plantain enchilada bake brings the comfort of a casserole with a healthy twist. The black beans and plantains work together to create a hearty and satisfying dish that’s completely vegan and gluten-free. Recipe from Minimalist Baker.
Mashed Plantains With Fried Eggs
If you’re looking for a classic Caribbean breakfast, this mangú de plátanos has you covered. Soft, mashed plantains with fried eggs – it’s comfort food at its finest. Recipe from Epicurious.
Breakfast Hash With Plantains & Chimichurri
This breakfast hash is packed with flavor, and in just 10 minutes, you’ve got a hearty meal! The chimichurri adds a fresh, zesty kick to the plantains and eggs. Recipe from Simple Roots Wellness.
Grain-Free Plantain Pancakes
Who knew plantains could make such fluffy, grain-free pancakes? These sweet, nutty pancakes are perfect for breakfast or brunch – and they’re vegan and dairy-free! Recipe from Minimalist Baker.
Plantain Pancakes (Nut-Free)
Fluffy, tasty, and so easy to make – these plantain pancakes are a breakfast win. They’re naturally sweet, and paleo, dairy-, nut-, and gluten-free too! Recipe from Chelsea Joy Eats.
Plantain Cake (Plantain Bread)
If you love banana bread, you’re going to adore plantain cake. It’s moist, slightly sweet, and makes the perfect afternoon snack. Recipe from Chef Lola’s Kitchen.
Chocolate Chip Plantain Muffins
These chocolate chip plantain muffins are a treat that’s both sweet and healthy. They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo-friendly and packed with flavor – the perfect bite-sized snack for your sweet tooth. Recipe from Bake It Paleo.
Vegan Plantain Lasagna (Pastelon)
This vegan plantain lasagna is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. Layers of plantains, vegan meat, and melty cheese will have you coming back for seconds. Recipe from Full Of Plants.
Pastelon (With Beef)
Meat lovers, rejoice! This plantain lasagna with ground beef is a savory, sweet, and satisfying dish that hits all the right notes. You’ll be amazed at how well plantains hold up in a lasagna. Recipe from Inspired With A Twist.
Grilled Plantains
Grilled plantains are sweet, smoky, and oh-so-delicious. Perfect for a BBQ side or as a tasty snack, they bring a little Caribbean sunshine to your plate. Recipe from Delicious Little Bites.
Plantain Fritters
These crispy plantain fritters are the ultimate savory snack or side dish. With a little crunch on the outside and a soft center, they’re sure to disappear fast. Recipe from Cooking For Peanuts.
Black Bean Plantain Bowls With Garlic Rice
This vibrant black bean and plantain bowl with crispy garlic rice is a deliciously balanced meal. It’s vegan, protein-packed, and filled with tropical flavors that’ll brighten up your week. Recipe from Plant Based RD Blog.
Black Beans And Plantains
If you’re craving a plant-based meal, this black bean and plantain combo is the ticket. Hearty, flavorful, and so satisfying – it’s a bowl of comfort you won’t soon forget. Recipe from The New Baguette.
Black Bean And Plantain Stew
This black bean and plantain stew is the ultimate cozy meal. It’s loaded with flavor, filling, and a great way to enjoy plantains in a rich, hearty stew. Recipe from Afrovitality Eats.
Plantain And Pinto Stew With Aji Verde
Warm up with this plantain and pinto stew, topped with tangy aji verde. It’s comforting, flavorful, and full of hearty ingredients. Recipe from Pinch of Yum.
Easy Plantain Curry
This easy plantain curry is a flavor-packed, comforting dish that comes together in a snap. It’s vegan, full of spices, and will make your taste buds dance. Recipe from Full Of Plants.
Sweet Potato & Plantain Curry
A comforting, hearty dish that combines sweet potatoes and plantains with a rich curry sauce. It’s warming and makes a perfect weeknight dinner. Recipe from Eleanor’s Dish.
Vegan Tacos With Fried Plantain
These vegan tacos with fried plantain are full of flavor, crunch, and sweetness. Plantains bring a delicious twist to your typical taco – with a dash of tropical goodness. Recipe from Lazy Cat Kitchen.
Spicy Plantain Black Bean Tacos
These spicy plantain black bean tacos are bursting with flavor. A dash of heat, savory black beans, and crispy plantains make for one tasty taco night. Recipe from Minimalist Baker.
Jerk Fish Tacos With Plantain Fried Rice & Pineapple Salsa
Flavor-packed jerk fish tacos with plantain fried rice and pineapple salsa bring the ultimate tropical taste to your plate. It’s fresh, spicy, and perfect for a festive meal. Recipe from Half-Baked Harvest.
3-Ingredient Plantain Tortillas
These 3-ingredient plantain tortillas are a simple, gluten-free alternative to the real thing. Soft, pliable, and perfect for tacos or wraps. Recipe from Minimalist Baker.
Plantain Nachos
These plantain nachos are the ultimate snack – crispy, crunchy, and full of flavor! Perfect for game day or a movie night. Recipe from Life Made Sweeter.
Plantain Nachos (Version 2)
These plantain nachos are a fun twist on the classic! Crisp, golden plantains topped with all your favorite nacho toppings – it’s a party in your mouth. Recipe from The New Baguette.
Sweet And Spicy Plantain Salad
A fresh, vibrant salad featuring sweet plantains with a little kick of heat. This salad is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, making it a unique side dish. Recipe from Pure Wow.
Salad With Plantains & Cilantro Lime Dressing
This plantain salad is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, thanks to the creamy avocado cilantro lime dressing. It’s a light and refreshing dish that’ll leave you feeling good. Recipe from The All Natural Vegan.
Al Pastor Pizza With Plantain Crust
This plantain crust al pastor pizza is a fusion masterpiece. A savory, sweet crust topped with all the bold flavors of al pastor – you’ll be craving this one often. Recipe from Fed and Fit.
Black Bean Plantain Arepa Sandwiches
These black bean plantain arepa sandwiches are the ultimate handheld meal. Packed with flavor and texture, they’re a fantastic plant-based dish. Recipe from Minimalist Baker.
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