Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tostones are simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. The combination of the crispy exterior and soft interior makes them a delightful treat. They can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even paired with a main course. This recipe requires only a few ingredients and minimal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something flavorful and fun to eat. Plus, the option to serve them with a savory garlic sauce or tangy salsa adds extra flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 green plantains
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste
- Garlic sauce or salsa for dipping
Directions
- Peel the plantains: Start by cutting off the ends of the plantains. Make a shallow slit along the length of the skin and peel it off, being careful not to tear the plantain flesh. Cut the plantains into 1-inch thick slices.
- First fry: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the plantain slices and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden but not fully cooked. Remove the plantains from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- Smash the plantains: Using the bottom of a glass or a tostone press, gently flatten each fried plantain slice to about half its original thickness.
- Second fry: Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry them again for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and season: Remove the tostones from the oil and place them back on the paper towels to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Serve: Serve the tostones hot with garlic sauce or salsa on the side for dipping.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings of tostones.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Variations
- Spicy tostones: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the salt for a spicy kick.
- Cheese-topped tostones: Once the tostones are fried, top them with shredded cheese and return them to the pan for a few seconds until the cheese melts.
- Sweet tostones: For a sweet version, drizzle the tostones with honey or sprinkle them with cinnamon and sugar after frying.
Storage/Reheating
- Storing: Tostones are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day. They may lose some of their crispiness when stored.
- Reheating: To re-crisp the tostones, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes or reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use ripe plantains for tostones?
No, ripe (yellow) plantains are too sweet and soft for tostones. You need to use green plantains, which are firmer and less sweet, perfect for frying.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of plantain into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready for frying.
Can I make tostones in the oven?
While tostones are typically fried for the best texture, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
What is the best oil for frying tostones?
Use an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, to fry the plantains.
How do I prevent the tostones from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain the tostones on paper towels after both frying steps to remove excess oil. Also, serve them immediately for the crispiest texture.
Can I make tostones ahead of time?
Tostones are best served immediately after frying, but you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat them in a skillet to restore their crispiness.
What can I serve with tostones?
Tostones are great on their own, but they also pair well with guacamole, ceviche, or a variety of dips. You can also serve them alongside meats, such as grilled chicken or steak.
How do I peel plantains easily?
Peeling plantains can be tricky. Using a knife, cut off both ends of the plantain, then make a slit down the length of the skin. Gently pry the skin off. Sometimes, running the plantain under warm water helps loosen the peel.
Can I freeze tostones?
You can freeze the tostones after the first fry (before smashing them). Place the fried slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When ready to serve, just smash and fry them as usual.
How can I make the tostones sweeter?
For a sweeter version of tostones, use ripe plantains or drizzle them with honey or sprinkle sugar on top after frying.
Conclusion
Tostones are a delicious and crispy snack that is simple to make and packed with flavor. The golden, crunchy exterior combined with the tender interior makes them irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit. Serve with a savory dipping sauce, and you’ve got a treat that everyone will love!
Print
Tostones
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tostones (twice-fried plantains) are a crispy and savory Latin American and Caribbean snack made from green plantains. With their golden, crunchy exterior and tender interior, these fried treats are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Served with garlic sauce or salsa, they offer a flavorful and satisfying bite that will please any crowd!
Ingredients
2 green plantains
Oil for frying
Salt to taste
Garlic sauce or salsa for dipping
Instructions
-
Peel the plantains: Cut off both ends of the plantains, then make a shallow slit along the length of the skin to peel it off. Cut the plantains into 1-inch thick slices.
-
First fry: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden, but not fully cooked. Remove and drain on paper towels.
-
Smash the plantains: Using the bottom of a glass or tostone press, flatten each fried slice to about half its original thickness.
-
Second fry: Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry for another 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
-
Season and serve: Sprinkle with salt and serve hot with garlic sauce or salsa for dipping.
Notes
Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the salt for a spicy version.
Cheese Toppings: Top fried tostones with shredded cheese and return to the pan to melt.
Sweet Option: Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Caribbean
