Maduros (fried sweet plantains)
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Maduros are ripe, sweet plantains sliced and fried until caramelized and tender on the inside with a slightly crispy edge. They are a beloved side dish or snack made from very ripe (black-skinned) plantains, often fried in oil and sometimes lightly salted. This dish is a staple across Latin America and the Caribbean, with variations found in countries like Cuba, Puerto Rico, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Maduros are primarily a source of carbohydrates, with natural sugars from the ripe fruit providing quick energy. A typical serving (about 1/2 cup or 85g) contains roughly 150-180 calories, with minimal protein and most calories coming from carbs and a small amount of fat from the frying oil. They also provide potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
💡 What's interesting
Unlike savory green plantains (tostones), maduros highlight the fruit's natural sweetness as it ripens, making them a unique bridge between a side dish and a dessert. Nutritionally, the caramelization process creates antioxidants and the ripe plantains offer resistant starch, which can benefit gut health.