Tostones
Twice-fried green plantain slices, smashed flat between fryings until crisp outside and tender within, then sprinkled with salt. They are the island's most common savory side and snack.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 15 min
- Total
- 30 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 220 kcal
Equipment
- •Tostonera or flat-bottomed cup
- •Deep fryer or heavy skillet
Nutrition
Per serving, approximate
- Calories
- 220 kcal
- fat
- 9
- carbs
- 34
- protein
- 2
- calories
- 220
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil to 325°F in a deep pot or skillet.
- 2
Fry the plantain rounds for 3-4 minutes per side until softened and pale gold.
- 3
Remove and drain them. Flatten each piece using a tostonera (a plantain press) or the bottom of a flat cup.
- 4
Stir the salt and garlic, if using, into water until dissolved. Dip the smashed plantains briefly into the mixture.
- 5
Raise the oil temperature to 350°F. Fry the flattened plantains again for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- 6
Drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle with additional salt.
- 7
Serve hot right away with a dipping sauce.
Chef's tips
Dip smashed plantain rounds briefly in salted water before the second fry for extra crispness and flavor.
Storage
Best eaten immediately; do not store well as they lose crispness.
Reheating
Re-fry briefly or crisp in a hot oven; microwaving makes them soggy.
Common mistakes to avoid
- •Using ripe plantains, which caramelize instead of getting crisp
- •Smashing the pieces too thin, causing them to fall apart
Serving suggestions
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