How to Make Perfect Nigerian Fried Plantain (Dodo)
Dodo is a beloved side dish in Nigeria, made from ripe plantains fried to golden perfection. It’s sweet, caramelised, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. Dodo pairs well with jollof rice, fried rice, beans (ewa), or can even be enjoyed as a snack on its own. Let’s dive into this simple recipe!
Ingredients for Fried Plantain (Dodo)
- 4-5 ripe plantains (the riper, the sweeter)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Plantain (Dodo)
Step 1: Choose the Right Plantains
- Ripe but Firm: Select plantains that are fully ripe with yellow skin and black spots. They should be soft to the touch but not overly mushy. Ripe plantains will give you that natural sweetness.
Step 2: Peel and Slice the Plantains
- Peel the Plantains: Cut off both ends of the plantain and make a shallow slit down the length of the skin. Peel the skin off gently.
-
Slice as Desired:
- You can slice the plantains into rounds, diagonal slices, or cubes, depending on your preference. The slices should be about 1/2-inch thick for even frying.
Step 3: Season the Plantains
- Add Salt: Place the sliced plantains in a bowl and sprinkle a little salt over them. Toss gently to ensure even distribution. You can skip the salt if you prefer a purely sweet taste.
Step 4: Fry the Plantains
- Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, add enough vegetable oil to submerge the plantains halfway. Heat the oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. To check if it’s ready, drop a small piece of plantain into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry in Batches: Gently add the plantain slices into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if needed.
- Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry each side of the plantains for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip with a slotted spoon or fork to ensure even cooking.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve Hot: Dodo is best enjoyed warm and fresh! Pair it with jollof rice, fried rice, beans, eggs, or your favourite stew.
- As a Snack: You can also enjoy fried plantains as a tasty snack on their own.
Tips for the Best Fried Plantain (Dodo)
- Use Ripe Plantains: The riper the plantain, the sweeter and more caramelised your dodo will be.
- Control the Heat: Fry on medium heat to ensure the plantains cook through and become crispy without burning.
- Try Variations: Add a sprinkle of chilli powder for a spicy kick or a touch of cinnamon for an interesting twist!
Conclusion
Making delicious fried plantain (dodo) is incredibly easy and satisfying. With a sweet and crispy texture, it’s no wonder dodo is a favourite across Nigeria! Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a snack, it’s sure to please everyone.