Calories in Plantains, overripe
The blacker the peel, the sweeter the flesh, as enzymatic action turns starch into sugar.
What makes plantains so powerful?
As plantains ripen past their yellow stage into the heavily black-spotted overripe phase, their starches undergo rapid enzymatic hydrolysis, converting complex carbohydrates into simple sugars like sucrose, fructose, and glucose. This chemical transformation shifts their flavor profile from neutral and potato-like to intensely sweet and custardy. Unlike dessert bananas, which are typically eaten raw when fully ripe, overripe plantains still contain enough structural pectin to hold their shape under high heat. In many Latin American and Caribbean cuisines, this specific stage of ripeness—often called maduros—is essential for creating caramelized, sweet fried plantain slices. The darkening of the peel is a direct visual indicator of this internal sugar accumulation, meaning the blacker the skin, the sweeter the flesh, without the interior actually spoiling. This natural sweetening process allows overripe plantains to be used as a base for desserts or sweet side dishes without adding refined sugars.
To prepare overripe plantains, slice them diagonally into half-inch thick pieces and pan-fry in a neutral oil until deeply caramelized. Their high natural sugar content means they brown quickly, so cook over medium heat to prevent burning before the interior softens. Pair them with savory proteins or fiber-rich legumes; the rapid blood sugar spike from their simple carbohydrates is mitigated by the fiber and protein in black beans, creating a more balanced glycemic response.
Calories by Serving Size
Full Nutrition Facts
Per 100g — daily values based on a 2,000 calorie diet
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Plantains, overripe?
Plantains, overripe contains 130 calories per 100g. A standard serving of 1 RACC (140g) provides 182 calories. It is a moderate-calorie food that can fit into most healthy diets.
How much protein does Plantains, overripe have?
Plantains, overripe provides 1.17g of protein per 100g, which is 2% of the 50g daily recommended value. It is not a primary protein source.
How many carbs are in Plantains, overripe?
Plantains, overripe contains 29.2g of carbohydrates per 100g . It also provides 1.79g of dietary fiber.
Is Plantains, overripe good for weight loss?
Plantains, overripe has 130 kcal per 100g, which is relatively moderate. It can fit into a weight-loss diet as long as portion sizes are managed.
How do I track Plantains, overripe calories accurately?
The easiest way to track plantains is with CalRay. Simply snap a photo of your meal and the AI will automatically identify the food and calculate calories and macros based on the estimated portion size — no manual lookup required. You can also search by name and adjust gram weight manually.