
Golden Fried Plantain Tacos with Creamy Lime Slaw and Smoky Peanut Sauce
Get ready to elevate taco night! These Golden Fried Plantain Tacos are a sweet, smoky, and tangy explosion of flavor. With crispy plantains, zesty lime slaw, and a bold peanut sauce, it’s a fiesta for your taste buds. Trust me, this combo is pure magic—I can’t wait for you to try it!
4.3 out of 5 (3 ratings)

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
Fusion (Latin American and Asian inspired)
Ingredients
- •2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- •2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- •1/4 teaspoon salt
- •8 small corn tortillas
- •1 cup shredded green cabbage
- •1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- •1/4 cup carrot, grated
- •3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- •2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- •1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- •1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- •1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or natural)
- •1 tablespoon soy sauce
- •1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
- •1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- •1 teaspoon maple syrup
- •2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce if necessary)
- •1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- 1
Peel and slice the ripe plantains into 1/2 inch thick pieces.
- 2
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the plantain slices and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and caramelized. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt while cooking. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- 3
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and grated carrot. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- 4
Prepare the smoky peanut sauce by whisking together 1/3 cup peanut butter, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon maple syrup in a small bowl. Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of warm water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- 5
Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until pliable.
- 6
Assemble the tacos by placing a few fried plantain slices on each tortilla. Top with a generous amount of creamy lime slaw and drizzle with the smoky peanut sauce.
- 7
Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your golden fried plantain tacos with a side of black beans and rice or a refreshing drink!
Nutrition Information
Calories
450 calories
Protein
8g
Carbs
59g
Fat
21g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use unripe plantains instead of ripe ones?
A: It's best to use ripe plantains for this recipe because they are naturally sweet and caramelize beautifully when fried. Unripe plantains are starchy and less sweet, which will result in a different texture and flavor profile. If you prefer a less sweet taco filling, you can use unripe plantains, but consider adding a pinch of sugar to enhance the caramelization.
Q: Can I substitute the peanut butter in the smoky peanut sauce?
A: Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini if you have allergies or dietary restrictions. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on the substitute. If using tahini, you may need to adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or honey.
Q: Can I make any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, the creamy lime slaw and smoky peanut sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The plantains, however, are best fried just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. You can also warm the tortillas right before assembling the tacos for the best results.
Q: How can I prevent the plantains from sticking to the skillet?
A: Ensure the skillet and oil are fully heated before adding the plantain slices. If the plantains are sticking, wait a little longer before flipping them, as they naturally release from the pan once caramelized. Using a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron pan can also help prevent sticking.
Q: What are some variations or additions to this recipe?
A: You can customize this recipe by adding sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole for creaminess, or pickled red onions for a tangy kick. For extra protein, consider adding black beans, grilled shrimp, or shredded chicken. You can also experiment with flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas if preferred.
Q: How should I store leftovers, and can they be reheated?
A: Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The fried plantains can be reheated in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to regain some crispiness. The slaw should be consumed within 1-2 days as it may lose its crunch over time. The smoky peanut sauce can be stored for up to a week and may need to be stirred or thinned with a little water before use.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by substituting the mayonnaise in the slaw with a vegan mayo or plain plant-based yogurt. Use agave syrup instead of honey in the slaw dressing, and ensure the tortillas and other ingredients are free from animal products. The smoky peanut sauce is already vegan as written.
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