International Cuisine > Latin American Cuisine (General) > Plantain Dishes > Tostones Recipe

Authentic Tostones: Crispy Twice-Fried Plantains

Tostones, also known as patacones, are a beloved Latin American side dish made from green plantains. These savory, twice-fried plantain slices are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This recipe guides you through creating perfect tostones every time.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 2 large Green Plantains
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil
  • to taste Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 cup Water

Preparation

Begin by peeling the green plantains. The skin of green plantains is thick and can be difficult to remove. Cut off both ends of the plantain and then make a shallow slit lengthwise along the peel. Use a knife to gently pry the peel away from the flesh. If the peel is particularly stubborn, briefly soak the plantains in warm water for a few minutes to loosen the skin.

First Fry

Cut the peeled plantains into 1-inch thick slices. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the plantains for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are lightly golden and slightly softened. Remove the plantains from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Flattening the Tostones

Once the plantain slices have cooled slightly, it's time to flatten them. There are several ways to do this. You can use a tostonera (a special plantain press), two plates, or even the bottom of a heavy glass or mug. Place a plantain slice between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent sticking. Press down firmly and evenly to flatten the slice to about ½-inch thickness. Be careful not to press too hard, or the plantain may break apart.

Second Fry

Return the flattened plantain slices to the hot oil. This time, fry them for another 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the tostones from the oil and place them on a clean plate lined with paper towels to drain. Immediately season the hot tostones with salt and garlic powder (if using).

Serving

Serve the tostones immediately while they are still hot and crispy. They are delicious on their own as a snack or appetizer, or as a side dish with a variety of Latin American dishes. Popular accompaniments include guacamole, salsa, mojo sauce, garlic mayonnaise, or simply ketchup.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g of product):
Calories: 200-250
Fat: 10-15g
Saturated Fat: 2-3g
Sodium: Varies depending on salt added
Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Fiber: 2-3g
Protein: 1-2g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition:
The nutritional value of tostones can vary depending on the type of oil used for frying and the amount of salt added. Using a healthier oil, such as avocado oil or olive oil, can help reduce the amount of saturated fat. Consuming tostones in moderation is recommended due to their high carbohydrate and fat content.

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FAQ

  • Why are my tostones soggy?

    Soggy tostones are usually caused by not frying them at a high enough temperature or overcrowding the pan. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the plantains, and fry them in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature. Also, ensure you are doing the double frying process.
  • Can I use ripe plantains for tostones?

    No, tostones are made with green plantains. Ripe plantains are too soft and sweet and will not achieve the crispy texture needed for tostones.
  • How do I store leftover tostones?

    Tostones are best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore some of their crispness, but they won't be as good as freshly made.
  • What is a tostonera?

    A tostonera is a kitchen tool specifically designed for flattening tostones. It typically consists of two flat surfaces hinged together. You place the partially fried plantain slice between the surfaces and press down to flatten it evenly.