How to Make Fried Plantains

Fri Bannann (Fried Plantains) are a Haitian specialty. They are eaten all over the country, by every different class of Haitians. They are not uniquely Haitian, but they are enjoyed by most every Haitian. I was recently taught how to make them by one of the cooks who works at the mission.

How to make "Fri Bannann" or Fried Plantains

Ingredients: 
Plantains, oil, salt mixed in with water.

1. Peel the plantains, clean them off, and make sure there are no flakes or strings hanging off of them.

2. Pour enough oil into the pan so it is about 1/4 to a half inch deep and bring it to a boil.

3. Cut the plantains into chucks, about four or five pieces per banana (you can make it bigger of smaller depending on how big you want the fried plantains to be).

4. Drop the chucks into the oil and let them brown.

5. When the plantain chunks are a light brown color take them out (use tongs, they're really hot).

6. Put the chunks on a cutting board and smash them. You can smash them however you want, but I would recommend smashing them with another cutting board or large flat piece of wood. You don't want chunks of plantain to go everywhere.

7. Dip the plantain pieces into the salt water for a few seconds and then put them back into the frying pan.

8. Let them fry until they are a nice golden brown, remove and let them cool for a few minutes. if you like really crunchy ones then let them fry for a long time, if you just want a light crispy plantain, put it in for less time.

9. Enjoy!

I usually try to write something spiritual for Sundays but I couldn't muster anything today. I hope you all had a lovely Palm Sunday!