Tostones
Twice-Fried Green Plantains
Tostones are a classic Venezuelan appetizer or side dish made from twice-fried green plantains. They are first fried until tender, then smashed flat, and finally fried again until golden brown and crispy. The result is a delightful contrast of textures and a satisfyingly savory snack.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 large Green plantains(Ensure they are firm and completely green, not even a hint of yellow or black. This is crucial for the correct texture.)
- Approximately 3-4 cups Neutral oil for frying(Such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Enough to submerge the plantain pieces.)
- To taste Salt(Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for a better flavor and texture.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the plantains: Cut off the ends of the green plantains. Make a shallow slit lengthwise through the peel, being careful not to cut into the flesh. Use your fingers or a knife to peel away the skin. Cut the peeled plantains into thick rounds, about 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm) thick.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
First fry: Heat about 2 inches of neutral oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat to 160°C (320°F). Carefully add the plantain pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 4-6 minutes per side, until they are lightly golden and tender when pierced with a fork. They should not be fully cooked or browned at this stage.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 3
Drain and smash: Remove the plantains from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While still warm (this is important for easy smashing), place each plantain piece between two pieces of parchment paper or plastic wrap and gently smash it with the bottom of a glass, a small plate, or a tostonera (plantain smasher) until it is about 1/2 inch (1 cm) thick. Be firm but don't smash them so thin that they break apart.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Second fry: Reheat the oil to 180°C (350°F). Carefully return the smashed plantains to the hot oil, again in a single layer and without overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Watch them closely as they can brown quickly.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 5
Season and serve: Remove the tostones from the oil and drain on fresh paper towels. Immediately sprinkle generously with salt while they are still hot. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as guasacaca (a Venezuelan avocado sauce), aioli, or a simple lime wedge.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use only firm, green plantains. Ripe or yellow plantains will result in sweet, softer fries (maduros), not tostones.
- ✓Smashing the plantains while they are still warm makes them easier to flatten without breaking.
- ✓The double-frying process is key: the first fry cooks the inside until tender, and the second fry creates the signature crispy exterior.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for each frying stage for optimal results.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Garlic Tostones: Add minced garlic to the oil during the second fry, or rub minced garlic over the tostones after the second fry.
- Cheesy Tostones: Sprinkle grated cheese (like queso fresco or mozzarella) over the hot tostones after the second fry and let it melt.
- Spicy Tostones: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the salt mixture before sprinkling.