Choose ripe or unripe plantains, depending on the dish
Wash the plantain
Cut off both ends
Make a shallow slit along the peel
Remove the peel
Slice, dice, or leave whole as needed
Heat oil, water, or preheat an oven, grill, or pan
Cook the plantain by frying, boiling, baking, roasting, or grilling
Turn or stir as needed until tender and cooked through
Remove from heat
Serve immediately