Jamaican Fried Plantain Bowls

Name: Jamaican Fried Plantain Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe plantains; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt to taste; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup corn; 1/2 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love creating Jamaican Fried Plantain Bowls! The sweetness of perfectly fried plantains combined with a savory filling makes for a delightful meal. It has become a family favorite, especially during gatherings. Each bite bursts with flavor, and I love how easy it is to customize with different toppings. Whether you prefer spicy beans or a fresh salsa, it’s versatile enough for everyone. Sangria pairs wonderfully, making this dish perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:28:13.208Z

I remember the first time I tried Jamaican Fried Plantain Bowls at a local Caribbean restaurant. The combination of sweet plantains with spicy, flavorful fillings left a lasting impression. I was determined to recreate that experience at home. After several attempts, I found that the key to achieving the perfect fry is to let the plantains ripen until they're golden and soft. The results were delightful!

Over time, I experimented with different toppings like black beans, avocado, and pico de gallo. Each addition brightened the dish, making it more exciting. I also learned that garnishing with fresh cilantro enhances the overall freshness of the flavors. Trust me, once you try these vibrant bowls, they’ll become a regular in your kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory balance that tantalizes your taste buds
Crispy exterior of the plantains paired with soft, flavorful filling
Versatile meal option that can be tailored to any palate

      

Choosing the Right Plantains

Selecting the right plantains is key to achieving that perfect sweetness and texture. Look for ripe plantains that are yellow with some black spots; they should feel slightly soft to the touch. This ripeness ensures they caramelize beautifully when fried. Avoid green plantains, as they will be too starchy and won’t provide the sweet flavor you desire for these bowls.

It's also worth noting that the size of your plantains can affect cooking time. If using larger plantains, your slices may need a little longer to fry, so keep an eye on them and adjust accordingly to avoid burning. Remember, you want them to be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.

Tips for the Perfect Filling

When making the filling, the choice of beans can enhance the dish's flavor and texture. While black beans are traditional, feel free to substitute them with pinto or kidney beans for a different taste profile. Ensure you rinse and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess liquid which can make the filling soggy. I like to incorporate some lime juice into the filling for an added zesty kick.

Sautéing the bell pepper for a couple of minutes before adding the beans can elevate the flavors even more, introducing a slight sweetness. Adjust the spices to your preference—add more cumin for depth or even a pinch of cayenne if you're after some heat. The filling should be warm but not overly wet to allow for an ideal layering on the fried plantains.

Ingredients

For the Fried Plantains

2 ripe plantains
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt to taste

For the Filling

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup corn
1/2 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Plantains

Peel the plantains and cut them diagonally into thick slices. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

Fry the Plantains

Fry the plantain slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with salt.

Make the Filling

In a skillet, combine black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium flame for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Assemble the Bowls

In a bowl, layer the fried plantains and top with the black bean filling. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra sweetness, use overripe plantains. You can also add lime juice for a zesty kick!

Serving Suggestions

These Jamaican Fried Plantain Bowls are effortlessly customizable, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings. Consider setting up a toppings bar featuring items like avocado slices, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or a spicy mango salsa. This allows guests to personalize their bowls according to their taste preferences and dietary needs, creating a fun, interactive meal.

If you're planning to serve this dish as part of a larger spread, consider pairing it with a light salad or some grilled vegetables on the side. This lightness can balance the richness of the fried plantains and filling, making for a more rounded dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the filling ahead of time to streamline your cooking process. Simply store the cooled filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully over time.

For the plantains, I recommend frying them fresh for the best texture. However, if you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving fried plantains, as this will make them soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green plantains?

Yes, green plantains can be used, but they will be less sweet and more starchy.

→ What is a good alternative for the filling?

You can use ground meat, tofu, or even a mixture of sautéed vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the fried plantains and filling separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! The ingredients here are already vegan, making it a perfect plant-based meal.