Tostones are a popular Latin American and Caribbean snack made from green plantains, which are sliced, fried, smashed, and then fried again for a crispy, golden-brown treat. These crispy plantain chips are savory, with a lightly sweet flavor that complements a variety of dips, such as guacamole or salsa. Tostones are crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and are perfect for snacking, serving as an appetizer, or even pairing with main dishes like grilled meats or seafood. Easy to make and packed with flavor, tostones are an irresistible and authentic bite of tropical comfort.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 green plantains (unripe)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Plantains: Peel the plantains by cutting off both ends and making a shallow slit along the length of the plantain skin. Use your fingers to peel away the skin, revealing the bright green plantain flesh.
- Slice the Plantains: Slice the plantains into 1 to 1.5-inch thick rounds, being careful not to slice too thin. The pieces should be thick enough to hold up during the smashing and second fry.
- First Fry: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the plantain slices and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they begin to turn a light golden color. Remove the plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Smash the Plantains: Once the plantains are cool enough to handle, gently smash each slice using a plantain press or the bottom of a flat glass or bowl. Flatten each piece to about half its original thickness, being careful not to tear them apart.
- Second Fry: Return the smashed plantains to the skillet and fry them for another 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
- Drain and Season: Remove the tostones from the oil and place them back on the paper towel-lined plate to drain. While still hot, sprinkle with salt to taste and, if desired, drizzle with lime juice for added flavor.
- Serve: Serve the tostones immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as guacamole, salsa, or a tangy garlic sauce.
Tostones are a crispy and delightful snack that will bring a taste of the tropics to your table. With their irresistible crunch and versatility, these twice-fried plantains are perfect for any occasion and will surely become a favorite at your next gathering.
