How to Make the Best Fried Plantains Ever

Submitted by Chef #928625

"Yes,bacon grease.No,they aren't healthy(bacon grease)But they are the best damn fried plantains I've ever eaten(bacon grease!). The Bf made these one day and I was dubious-1 because he's not the best cook and 2 because of a former fat phobia I was wary of bacon grease...but these are amazing.I've been hooked ever since. The key to a great tasting fried plantain(other than bacon grease ;) is to cook them to a caramelized goodness without burning them too much.Green plantains can be tasty too,but for this recipe you want really,really ripe plantains.They should have more black than yellow ,or be all black.You don't want to cook these too fast either,so if they seem to be burning before they're cooked ,turn the heat down .At least 6 -8 minutes per batch."

 

• Ready In: 35mins
• Ingredients: 3
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 4 very ripe plantains
• 2⁄3 cup bacon grease
• salt (optional) or sugar, to taste (optional)

directions

1. Heat bacon grease over medium -high heat in a heavy skillet.
2. Meanwhile cut ends off of plantains,cut a slit in the skin and peel.Cut into strips lengthwise;you may cut each of these into halves if you like.Cut them thick-it will be hard to cut them thinly anyway if they are very ripe-about 1/4 inch thick is good.Don't worry if your pieces come out a little messy.The taste is more important!
3. The oil is ready when it bubbles as soon as a piece of plantain is slid into it.Add plantain slices,cooking about 1 plantain at a time.When they begin to brown around the edges,turn them and cook until very dark.They should look almost burnt because the sugars in the plantains are caramelized.
4. Remove to a plate lined with paper towels to drain .Sprinkle with salt or sugar if desired and serve hot.