Haitian-Style Boiled Plantains with Garlic and Onion Recipe
Introduction
Enjoy a simple yet flavorful Haitian-style dish featuring boiled plantains infused with a savory garlic and onion sauté. This comforting side is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients
- 3 medium green plantains
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel the plantains by cutting off both ends and making shallow slits in the skin. Gently remove the peel.
- Step 2: Slice the plantains into thick rounds about 1 inch thick.
- Step 3: In a large pot, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add the sliced plantains and cook for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
- Step 4: While the plantains boil, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Step 5: Drain the cooked plantains and gently combine them with the garlic and onion mixture in the skillet.
- Step 6: Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley for a bright touch.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic and onion sauté.
- Use ripe (yellow) plantains instead of green for a sweeter version of the dish.
- Substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a subtle tropical aroma.
Storage
Store leftover boiled plantains in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use yellow or ripe plantains instead of green ones?
Yes, ripe plantains will give the dish a sweeter taste and softer texture. Adjust cooking time as needed since ripe plantains cook faster.
What can I serve this dish with?
This Haitian-style boiled plantain pairs well with grilled meats, stews, or as part of a vegetarian meal alongside beans and vegetables.
PrintHaitian-Style Boiled Plantains with Garlic and Onion Recipe
Enjoy a comforting Haitian-style boiled plantains dish enhanced with a flavorful garlic and onion sauté. This simple yet delicious recipe highlights tender boiled plantains paired with aromatic garlic and onions sautéed in olive oil for a perfect side or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing (Stovetop)
- Cuisine: Haitian
Ingredients
Plantains
- 3 medium green plantains
Garlic and Onion Mixture
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Peel Plantains: Cut off both ends of each plantain and make shallow slits along the skin. Gently peel away the skin to reveal the flesh.
- Slice Plantains: Cut the peeled plantains into thick round slices about 1 inch thick, ensuring even cooking.
- Boil Plantains: Bring a large pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add the sliced plantains and simmer for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender and easily pierced.
- Sauté Garlic and Onion: While the plantains boil, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine: Drain the cooked plantains well. Gently toss them with the garlic and onion sauté in the skillet to coat them evenly with flavors.
- Serve: Serve the garlic and onion infused boiled plantains warm. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an added touch of freshness and color.
Notes
- Choose green plantains for a firmer texture; ripe plantains will be sweeter but softer.
- Adjust salt to taste or add a pinch of black pepper for a slight kick.
- You can add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Serve as a side dish to protein-based meals like grilled fish or chicken.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
Keywords: Haitian boiled plantains, garlic plantains, onion sauté, side dish, Caribbean recipe, simple plantain recipe

