📝 About This Recipe
Tostones are a beloved Caribbean staple, specifically from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, consisting of twice-fried green plantains. These savory treats are incredibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a starchy, satisfying crunch that rivals any potato chip. They are traditionally served hot with a garlic-heavy dipping sauce, making them the ultimate street food snack that captures the essence of tropical island flavors.
🥗 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Green Plantains (must be very green and firm)
- 2 cups Neutral Oil (vegetable, canola, or grapeseed for frying)
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (flaky salt preferred for finishing)
- 2 cups Ice Cold Water (for the soaking bath)
- 3 pieces Garlic Cloves (smashed for the soaking bath)
For the Garlic Mojo Sauce
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 cloves Fresh Garlic (finely minced or pressed)
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Prepare the plantains by cutting off both ends. Using a sharp knife, make 2-3 shallow longitudinal slits through the skin, being careful not to cut the flesh. Use your thumb to peel the skin back and discard.
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2
Slice the peeled plantains into thick rounds, approximately 1 inch to 1.25 inches thick. Aim for uniformity so they cook evenly.
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3
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat the neutral oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 325°F (160°C).
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4
Carefully place the plantain rounds into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they turn a light golden yellow and are soft enough to be pierced with a fork.
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5
Remove the fried plantains from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels.
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6
While the plantains are still warm, place one round on a flat surface. Use a 'tostonera' (plantain press) or the bottom of a heavy, flat-bottomed glass to press down firmly, flattening the round into a disc about 1/4 inch thick.
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7
Prepare a quick soaking bath by mixing the ice-cold water, 1 teaspoon of salt, and the 3 smashed garlic cloves in a medium bowl.
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8
Dip each flattened plantain disc into the garlic water bath for about 5-10 seconds. This step adds flavor and ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
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9
Thoroughly pat each disc dry with paper towels. This is a critical safety step to prevent the oil from splattering during the second fry.
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10
Increase the heat of the oil to medium-high until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
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11
Fry the flattened discs a second time for 1-2 minutes per side until they are deep golden brown and very crispy on the edges.
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12
Remove from the oil and drain on fresh paper towels. Immediately sprinkle with sea salt while they are still hot.
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13
Prepare the Mojo sauce by whisking together the olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
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14
Serve the tostones immediately while piping hot, with the garlic mojo sauce on the side for dipping.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use green plantains; yellow or spotted ones are too sweet and will turn mushy rather than crispy. Do not skip the water soak, as the starch release helps create that signature 'crunch' during the second fry. Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature using a thermometer to avoid greasy tostones. If you don't have a tostonera, a small cast-iron skillet or a sturdy plate works perfectly for flattening. Always pat the plantains completely dry after the water soak to avoid dangerous oil pops.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a classic Mayo-Ketchup sauce (equal parts mayo and ketchup with a dash of garlic powder). Pair with a cold Caribbean lager or a refreshing glass of passion fruit juice. Use them as a base for 'Tostones Rellenos' by topping them with seasoned shredded beef or shrimp. Serve as a side dish to Arroz con Pollo or a hearty black bean soup. Top with fresh pico de gallo and a slice of avocado for a lighter snack.