How to Make Haitian Twice-Fried Green Plantains (Bannann Pesse)

Today on Dinner Ideas for the Haitian Cook, we’re making Twice-Fried Green Plantains, known in Haiti as Bannann Pesse. These golden slices are crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and the perfect side dish for any Haitian meal.

You’ll find this recipe and many more traditional Haitian dishes in our cookbook Dinner Ideas for the Haitian Cook.

👉 Please like, comment, share, and subscribe.
➡️ Share this recipe with a friend who loves plantains!

Ingredients

• 2–4 green plantains

• 1 cup vegetable or corn oil

• 1 tostonera (plantain smasher) or two small saucers

• 1 tbsp vinegar

• 1 tbsp salt

• ½ tsp granulated garlic

• 1 cup hot water

Step-by-Step Stove-Top Directions

1. Prepare the Plantains
Peel the green plantains and cut them into 1-inch slices. Green plantains are firm and starchy, making them ideal for frying.

2. First Fry
Heat the vegetable or corn oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the plantain slices until they turn a light golden color. Remove and drain on a paper towel.

3. Flatten
Place each fried slice in a tostonera (or between two small saucers) and press gently until flat.

4. Flavor Dip
In a bowl, mix hot water with vinegar, salt, and granulated garlic. Dip the flattened plantains in this mixture to infuse flavor.

5. Second Fry
Return the plantains to the hot oil. Fry until crispy and deep golden brown. Remove, drain, and serve hot.

Air Fryer Option

Prefer a lighter version? Try this air fryer method.

1. After the first hot-water dip, pat the plantains dry and spray them with olive oil.

2. Air fry at 400°F for 15 minutes or until tender.

3. Flatten, dip again in the seasoned hot water, spray lightly with olive oil, and air fry for an additional 2 minutes for that perfect crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Bannann Pesse pairs beautifully with pikliz (spicy Haitian pickled vegetables), fried fish, or grilled meats. Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish at your next family gathering.

Get the Cookbook

📕 Dinner Ideas for the Haitian Cook – Paperback

Find more authentic Haitian recipes in our cookbook. 

Connect with Dinner Ideas Collective

• X (Twitter): https://x.com/DinnerIdeasColl

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DinnerIdeasCollective/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinnerideascollective/

• Threads: https://www.threads.com/@dinnerideascollective

• Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/dinnerideascollective

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dinnerideascollective

• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DinnerIdeasCollective/

• Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/4n6iInX

Connect with us on Social Media: