If you grew up in Latin America, the Caribbean, or parts of Africa, plátano verde (green plantain) is more than just food — it’s comfort, tradition, and creativity on a plate. Unlike ripe plantains, green plantains are starchy, savoury, and incredibly versatile. They can be fried, boiled, mashed, baked, or turned into crispy snacks that rival potatoes in flavour and texture.
In this guide, you’ll learn what plátano verde is, how to prepare it properly, and several easy and authentic platano verde recipes you can make at home.
What Is Plátano Verde?
Plátano verde is simply an unripe plantain. While ripe plantains are sweet and soft, green plantains are firm, neutral in taste, and behave more like potatoes when cooked.
Green plantains are widely used in:
- Caribbean cuisine (Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Cuba)
- Central and South America
- West and Central Africa
They are naturally gluten-free, rich in dietary fibre, and a great source of complex carbohydrates.
How to Choose the Best Green Plantains
When shopping for plátano verde, look for:
- Fully green skin with no yellow spots
- Firm texture with no soft areas
- Thick plantains for better slicing and frying
Avoid plantains that are already turning yellow if you want a savoury result.
How to Peel a Green Plantain (Important Step)
Green plantains are tougher than bananas, so peeling them correctly makes cooking much easier.
- Cut off both ends of the plantain.
- Score the skin lengthwise using a sharp knife.
- Use your fingers or the knife to lift and remove the peel.
- Rinse the plantain to remove any sticky sap.
Basic Platano Verde Recipe (Fried Green Plantains)
This is the foundation of many popular dishes like tostones and patacones.
Ingredients
- 2 green plantains
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Peel the green plantains and slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the plantain slices for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Season with salt and serve immediately.
At this stage, the plantains are lightly cooked and can be eaten as is — or taken further for other recipes.
Tostones (Twice-Fried Platano Verde)
Tostones are crispy, golden, and perfect as a side dish or snack.
Extra Ingredients
- Garlic (optional)
- Salt
- Water
Instructions
- After the first fry, remove plantains from oil.
- Flatten each slice using the bottom of a glass or a tostonera.
- Mix water, salt, and crushed garlic (optional).
- Dip flattened plantains briefly into the mixture.
- Fry again until crispy and deep golden.
- Drain and season with extra salt if needed.
Serve with garlic sauce, guacamole, or spicy mayo.
Boiled Platano Verde (Simple and Comforting)
Boiled green plantains are popular across Africa and the Caribbean.
Ingredients
- 2 green plantains
- Water
- Salt
Instructions
- Peel and cut plantains into large chunks.
- Place in a pot with salted water.
- Boil for 20–25 minutes until tender.
- Drain and serve with stews, beans, or fried eggs.
This method keeps things simple and highlights the natural flavour.
Mashed Green Plantains (Mofongo-Style)
Inspired by Puerto Rican cuisine, this dish is rich, filling, and packed with flavour.
Ingredients
- Boiled or fried green plantains
- Garlic
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt
- Optional: bacon bits or fried onions
Instructions
- Mash hot plantains with garlic and oil or butter.
- Season with salt.
- Mix in bacon or onions if desired.
- Shape into balls or serve as a mash.
Perfect with grilled meat, fish, or vegetables.
Baked Platano Verde (Healthier Option)
If you want less oil, baking is a great alternative.
Instructions
- Slice peeled plantains into wedges.
- Toss with olive oil and salt.
- Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway.
- Serve crispy on the outside and tender inside.
What to Serve With Platano Verde
Green plantains pair beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Beans and rice
- Tomato-based stews
- Spicy sauces
- Fried eggs
They work as a side dish, main meal, or snack.
Tips for Perfect Platano Verde Every Time
- Always start with fully green plantains
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan
- Salt immediately after frying for best flavour
- Serve hot for maximum crispiness
Final Thoughts
A good platano verde recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver incredible flavour. Whether you fry, boil, mash, or bake them, green plantains are endlessly adaptable and deeply satisfying.
If you’re looking to expand your cooking beyond potatoes and rice, plátano verde deserves a permanent place in your kitchen.
