Puerto Rican Fried Plantains (Tostones)
Puerto Rican Fried Plantains, known as "tostones," are a beloved and flavorful snack or side dish. This recipe involves slicing green plantains, frying them until lightly golden, flattening them, and frying them again to achieve their signature crispy texture. A sprinkle of salt enhances their savory taste. Tostones are commonly served with a dipping sauce like garlic dipping sauce (mojo de ajo) and are a delightful representation of Puerto Rican cuisine. Enjoy these crispy and savory treats as a snack or alongside your favorite Puerto Rican dishes. ¡Buen provecho!
Ingredients
- 2 green plantains plátanos verdes
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Garlic dipping sauce mojo de ajo or your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Plantains:
- Start by peeling the green plantains. Cut off both ends and make a lengthwise slit in the skin from end to end. Use your fingers to remove the skin.
Cut the Plantains:
- Cut the peeled plantains into 1 to 1.5-inch thick slices. You'll get round discs.
Preheat the Oil:
- In a deep frying pan or skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the plantain slices. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 350-375°F (175-190°C).
Fry the Plantains:
- Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they become lightly golden and the edges start to crisp up.
Flatten the Plantains:
- Remove the fried plantain slices from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool for a minute.
- To flatten the plantains, use the bottom of a glass or a tostonera (a tool designed for this purpose). Place a fried plantain slice between two pieces of parchment paper or plastic wrap and press down to flatten it to about half its original thickness.
Fry Again:
- Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry them for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side until they become crispy and golden brown. This second frying step gives them their characteristic texture.
Drain and Season:
- Remove the tostones from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate again to remove excess oil. While they are still hot, sprinkle them with salt to taste.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the tostones immediately while they're hot and crispy. They are often served as a side dish or snack, accompanied by a dipping sauce like garlic dipping sauce (mojo de ajo) or your preferred sauce.
Notes
Tostones are a delicious and addictive Puerto Rican treat. The combination of crispy outside and tender inside, along with the savory flavors of the salt and optional dipping sauce, make them a favorite snack for many. Enjoy your homemade Puerto Rican Fried Plantains!