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Tostones are a beloved dish in many Latin American and Caribbean countries, made from green plantains that are sliced, fried, smashed, and then fried again to crispy perfection. These golden, crunchy snacks are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack. Tostones are simple to make yet offer a deliciously satisfying crunch that pairs well with a variety of dips and sauces.

Ingredients

4 green plantains (about 2.2 lbs / 1 kg)

2 cups (0.48 liters) vegetable oil for frying

1 tsp (5 g) salt

1 cup (0.24 liters) water

2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for garlic-infused water)

Instructions

Prepare the Plantains: Peel the green plantains by cutting off both ends and making a shallow slit along the length. Remove the peel and slice the plantains into 1-inch thick rounds.

First Frying: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the plantain slices in batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are lightly golden. Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Smash the Plantains: After the plantains have cooled slightly, use the bottom of a flat cup or a tostonera (a special tool for smashing tostones) to press each plantain slice flat, about 1/2 inch thick.

Second Frying: Dip the smashed plantains in a mixture of water, salt, and minced garlic (if using) for extra flavor, then immediately return them to the hot oil. Fry the plantains again for another 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are crispy and golden brown. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Season and Serve: Sprinkle the hot tostones with salt to taste while they are still warm.

Serving

Tostones are best enjoyed immediately after frying when they are still hot and crispy. Serve them as a side dish with main meals, or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, guacamole, or a tangy tomato salsa. These crunchy bites are also a great accompaniment to seafood dishes.

Tostones are a versatile and delicious way to enjoy the unique flavor and texture of green plantains. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these crispy treats are sure to please anyone who loves a good crunch. Simple to prepare and irresistibly tasty, tostones are a must-try for anyone exploring Caribbean and Latin American cuisine.