Ripe plantain · Sides

Maduros

Name: Maduros
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large very ripe plantains, yellow with many black patches; 2–3 tablespoons neutral oil; A small pinch of salt, optional

Caramelized sweet plantains

Ripe plantains turn soft and sweet in the pan, with deeply golden edges. A simple companion to rice, beans, and savory mains.

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AI-generated illustration of Maduros — AI-generated serving illustration. About our imagery

Prep5 min

Cook10 min

Total15 min

Serves4

Let’s make it.

Choose ripe fruit
The peel should be heavily mottled and the plantain should yield gently to pressure. Peel and cut diagonally into slices about ½ inch thick.
Warm the pan
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Caramelize
Add a single layer of slices. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until deep golden and tender; lower the heat if they brown before softening.
Serve
Transfer gently to a plate, season lightly if desired, and serve warm.

A little kitchen wisdom

Ripeness provides the sweetness; added sugar is unnecessary.
Give each slice space so you can turn it without breaking it.
Yellow fruit with little spotting will be firmer and less sweet.

Need a hand getting started? Read how to peel a plantain and our cooking guide.

Times are estimates; use the doneness cues in the method. Follow safe internal temperatures for meat, seafood, and egg dishes. Read our recipe approach.

Maduros

Let’s make it.

Choose ripe fruit

Warm the pan

Caramelize

Serve

A little kitchen wisdom

Keep a good thing going.

Plátanos al caldero

Baked plantains

Yaroa de plátano maduro