Choose ripe or unripe plantains
Peel the plantains
Slice, dice, or leave whole as desired
Heat oil, water, or a pan depending on the cooking method
Fry plantain slices until golden brown
Boil plantain pieces until tender
Bake plantain slices in the oven until cooked through
Grill plantain halves until soft and lightly charred
Mash boiled plantains if desired
Season with salt, spices, or sugar as preferred
Serve hot