How long to cook plantain: 3–4 min per side pan-fried, 3–4 min deep-fried at 180°C, 8–10 min in an air fryer at 200°C and 15–20 min in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan). Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
Use ripe plantain, with yellow and black skin, for sweet fried plantain. Peel and slice on the diagonal, about 1 cm thick.
How to tell it’s done
Deep golden and soft.
Questions
How long to pan-fry plantain?
3–4 min per side over a medium heat. Shallow-fry in oil.
How long to deep-fry plantain?
3–4 min in oil at 180°C (350°F). In batches.
How long to cook plantain in an air fryer?
8–10 min at 200°C (400°F). Tossed in a teaspoon of oil; turn halfway.
How long to cook plantain in the oven?
15–20 min at 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6. On an oiled tray; turn halfway.
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.