30-Minute Quick Baked Plantain Fries
Lightly spiced and perfectly crisp, these baked plantain fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries. With minimal oil and maximum flavor, they are rich in fiber, plant-based nutrients, and good fats, making them a delicious, guilt-free snack or side dish.
Equipment
- 1 Large Bowl
- 1 Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 2 green or raw plantains peeled and cut into sticks
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or 2 tablespoons vegetable stock for fat-free version
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to Perfection: Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature while you prep the plantains. A hot oven is essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior without overcooking the inside. If your oven has a convection setting, you can use it to promote even browning.
- Prepare Plantains Carefully: Take 2 green or unripe plantains and place them on a clean cutting board. Cut off both ends using a sharp paring knife. Slice each plantain into three equal sections. Make a shallow lengthwise cut along each section, just deep enough to pierce the skin but not the flesh. Peel off the skin gently using your fingers. Once peeled, cut the plantains into uniform sticks, roughly the size of classic French fries, to ensure even baking.
- Season the Plantain Sticks: Transfer the plantain sticks to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon turmeric, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt over the fries. Add 1 tablespoon avocado oil for golden, flavorful fries. For a lighter version, replace the oil with 2 tablespoons vegetable stock — this still keeps the fries moist and tasty, though slightly less golden. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the plantains gently but thoroughly until every stick is evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Spread the seasoned plantain sticks in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. Overcrowding the pan will cause the fries to steam rather than bake, preventing that perfect crispiness.
- Bake for Crispy Texture: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the plantain fries for 20 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time with a spatula. This step ensures that all sides become evenly crisp and golden brown. Keep an eye on the fries in the final 5 minutes to prevent burning, as oven temperatures may vary.
- Serve Hot and Delicious: Once baked, remove the fries from the oven carefully. Transfer them to a serving plate and allow them to cool for 1-2 minutes to firm up slightly.For added flavor, you can sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves or serve them alongside a vegan cheese sauce, ketchup, or your favorite dip. These fries are best enjoyed hot and crispy for maximum flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use green or slightly unripe plantains for the best texture; overly ripe plantains become too soft and sweet.
- Cut fries uniformly to ensure even cooking and golden crispiness.
- Toss fries gently with oil or vegetable stock to avoid breaking them.
- For extra crispiness, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
- Experiment with seasonings: smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, or cumin all pair wonderfully.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best texture; reheated fries can become slightly softer.
