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Homemade Tostones: Fried Green Plantains recipe photo

Tostones: Fried Green Plantains

These tostones are irresistibly crispy and packed with flavor! Enjoy them as a snack or side dish, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Caribbean, Latin American

Ingredients
  

For the Tostones:
  • 800 g green plantains (approximately 4 plantains)
  • 8 garlic cloves
  • Salt to taste
  • 470 ml cooking oil for frying

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Frying pan or deep skillet
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Large bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Start by peeling the green plantains. Cut off both ends of each plantain, then make a shallow lengthwise cut through the skin. Carefully remove the skin, exposing the green flesh.
  2. Slice the peeled plantains into 1-inch thick rounds. These rounds will be fried and then flattened, so the size is important for even cooking.
  3. In a frying pan or deep skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil to submerge the plantain slices partially.
  4. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the plantain slices to the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden yellow.
  5. Using tongs, remove the fried plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  6. Once they’re cool enough to handle, take each fried plantain slice and flatten it using a flat surface, like the bottom of a plate or a heavy pan. Aim for a thickness of about half an inch.
  7. Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are crispy and golden brown.
  8. While the tostones are still hot, sprinkle them with salt and add crushed garlic for extra flavor. Toss them gently to ensure an even coating.

Notes

  • Ensure the oil is hot enough by testing with a small piece of plantain.
  • Store leftover tostones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet for the best texture; avoid microwaving.