Tostones
Cuban tostones, also known as fried plantain slices, are a traditional Cuban cuisine staple and are typically served as a side dish or appetizer. Tostones are made from the fruit of the plantain tree, which is abundant in the tropical climate of Cuba. The word “tostones” comes from the Spanish verb “tostar,” which means to toast or roast over a flame. This recipe allows you to make this delicious and crispy snack at home.
Plantains are a type of starchy banana that is typically used in Latin and Caribbean dishes. They are available in most supermarkets and can be found in the produce section. When picking out plantains, it’s important to look for ones that are green and firm if you plan on making tostones. Ripe plantains can still be used, but they are better suited for other recipes like maduros, which are sweet plantains.
To make tostones, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, including plantains, oil for frying, and salt for seasoning. Some recipes may also call for garlic, parsley, or other herbs and spices. You will also need a few tools, such as a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a frying pan or deep fryer.
The first step in making tostones is to peel the plantains. Unlike regular bananas, plantains are not easily peeled, and the skin is quite tough. To peel them, first, cut off the top and bottom of the plantain, then make a shallow lengthwise cut along the ridges. Once you have made your cuts, use your hands to peel off the skin.
Once the plantains are peeled, you’ll need to cut them into slices. Traditionally, tostones are cut into thick slices, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in thickness. Once you have your slices cut, it’s time to fry them. The best oil to use for frying tostones is either vegetable or canola oil. Heat up the oil in a frying pan or deep fryer and add the plantain slices once the oil is hot. Fry the plantains for around 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
Once the slices have been fried, they must be flattened. This is done by pressing the slices using a tostonera, a wooden or plastic tool specifically designed for this task. If you don’t have a tostonera, you can use a flat kitchen utensil, such as a metal spatula or the bottom of a glass. Flatten each slice until it’s about 1/4 inch thick.
After the slices have been flattened, it’s time to fry them again. This second fry is what gives tostones their signature crispy texture. Fry the flattened slices for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown.
Once the tostones are done, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. At this point, you can season your tostones with salt or other seasonings of your choice.
In conclusion, tostones are a delicious and easy-to-make Cuban snack that can be enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack. With the right tools and ingredients, you can easily make this traditional Cuban dish in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
- 2 green plantains
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- Salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Cut the ends off the plantains and then cut them into 1 inch wide slices.
- Use a small knife to cut a slit through the skin down the length of each slice.
- Use your fingers to peel the skin off each slice.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the plantain slices to the pan.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
- Remove the plantains from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain.
- Using a tostonera or the flat side of a large knife, flatten each slice into a thin disk.
- Return the flattened tostones to the pan and fry for an additional minute on each side, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the tostones from the pan and place them on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
- Sprinkle with salt and serve hot. Enjoy!