Appetizers & Starters > International Appetizers > Latin American Starters > Tostones

Classic Tostones with Garlic Aioli

Discover the secrets to making perfectly crispy and golden tostones, a beloved Latin American appetizer. This recipe includes a flavorful garlic aioli for dipping.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 2 Green Plantains
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil
  • 3 Garlic Cloves
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Pepper

Preparing the Plantains

Begin by peeling the green plantains. Cut off both ends and make shallow slits lengthwise down the skin. Carefully peel away the skin using your fingers or a knife. Once peeled, slice each plantain into 1-inch thick rounds.

First Fry

Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle gently when a piece of plantain is added. Fry the plantain slices in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly golden. Remove the plantains with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Smashing the Tostones

Place the lightly fried plantain slices on a cutting board. Using a tostonera (plantain press), the bottom of a glass, or two plates, gently smash each slice until it is about ½ inch thick. Be careful not to smash them too thin, or they will become too crispy and difficult to handle.

Second Fry

Return the smashed plantain slices to the hot oil and fry them again for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are deep golden brown and crispy. Remove the tostones with a slotted spoon and place them on a clean plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Season immediately with salt to taste.

Making the Garlic Aioli

While the tostones are frying, prepare the garlic aioli. In a small bowl, mince the garlic cloves. Add the minced garlic to the mayonnaise, along with the lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined. Adjust seasonings to your liking. For a spicier aioli, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving

Serve the hot, crispy tostones immediately with the garlic aioli for dipping. Enjoy!

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FAQ

  • What kind of plantains should I use?

    Use green plantains that are firm and unripe. They should be hard to the touch and have a green skin. As the plantains ripen, they become sweeter and softer, which is not ideal for tostones.
  • Can I use an air fryer?

    Yes, you can use an air fryer. After the first fry and smashing, spray the tostones with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • How do I store leftover tostones?

    Tostones are best served immediately. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore some of their crispiness.