Tostones
Discover the bold and refreshing flavours of Latin America and the Caribbean with our recipe for tostones paired with zesty mango salsa. Known for their crispy texture and savoury taste, tostones are twice-fried plantain slices that contrast beautifully with fresh mango salsa's sweet and tangy notes. Topped with crumbled white cheese and a drizzle of salsa verde, this recipe elevates a humble side dish into an exciting culinary treat.
Ingredients
Tostones
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Large plantains
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2 |
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Coconut oil
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50 ml |
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Sea salt
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Mango salsa
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Large mango
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1 |
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Red onions or shallot, finely chopped
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50 ml |
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Fresh coriander, finely chopped
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50 ml |
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Freshly squeezed lime juice
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2 tbsp |
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Jalapeño peppers, chopped
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1 tsp |
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Sea salt
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Topping
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Salsa verde
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Instructions
Mango salsa
Tostones
Recommended information
Serving suggestion
Select firm, green plantains
Always go for green, unripe plantains, which are firm and starchy, ideal for frying. As plantains ripen, they become sweeter and softer, leading to a mushy texture and excessive oil absorption when fried.
Monitor the oil temperature
Getting crispy tostones requires managing the temperature carefully, especially when using coconut oil. Start by frying the plantain slices at medium-high heat to cook them through while allowing the edges to crisp nicely. After flattening the plantains, lower the heat to medium for the second fry. This gentle temperature ensures a golden, crispy finish without overcooking them. Keep an eye on the heat and adjust as necessary to make sure your tostones turn out beautifully golden and delicious.
Prepare in an air fryer
You can prepare tostones in an air fryer, which uses much less oil than traditional frying. This makes it a perfect option if you are looking to cut down on oil. The air fryer still delivers crispy results while offering a convenient and fuss-free cooking method. Additionally, an air fryer provides a quick and convenient way to cook this tasty dish without losing flavour or texture.
Make your own salsa verde
To make your own salsa verde, roast 6–8 tomatillos, a jalapeño, and a clove of garlic under the grill until slightly charred. Blend these with a handful of fresh coriander, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of water. Adjust the spice and lime to suit your taste, and enjoy a vibrant, tangy salsa that perfectly complements the crispness of your tostones.
FAQ: Questions about tostones
Tostones are a beloved snack from Latin America and the Caribbean and offer a delightful crunch and distinct flavour. If you want to know more about them, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions below. Read on to find out more.
What are tostones?
Tostones, known as patacones in some areas, are twice-fried slices of unripe, green plantains popular in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines. They are a staple side dish or snack known for their crisp exterior and starchy centre. The plantains are cut into slices, fried until softened, and then flattened before frying them again until golden and crisp.
Can tostones be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare tostones ahead of time, which is convenient for gatherings or quick snacks. Complete the initial frying and flattening of the plantains beforehand. If you plan to cook the tostones within a day, refrigerate them. Lay the cooled, flattened plantains in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray or plate, cover, and refrigerate. You can then fry them the next day to achieve a crispy finish. For longer storage, place the flattened plantains on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, move the plantains to freezer-safe bags. This lets you fry the tostones straight from the freezer without defrosting.
What to eat with tostones?
Mango salsa is an exceptional accompaniment to tostones. The sweet and tangy taste of mango salsa creates a delightful contrast to the crispy texture of the fried plantains. The juiciness of the mango and its soft texture complement the crunch of the tostones perfectly, making each bite satisfyingly diverse in sensations. You can also pair them with seafood, grilled meats, or with dips like garlic sauce (mojo) or ketchup-mayo mix.
Tasty tostones with a tropical flair
Experience the delightful contrast of textures and flavours in our tostones with mango salsa. This recipe combines the earthy notes of plantains and the zesty sweetness of mangoes, creating a refreshing and satisfying bite. The addition of crumbled white cheese and a drizzle of salsa verde adds a creamy, herby finish that complements the flavours wonderfully.
Beautifully golden and crispy fried
What makes tostones so tempting is their crispy shell and soft, slightly tender interior. Double-frying gives them their signature crunch, making them an ideal base for various toppings. Their golden colour and satisfying texture make them a standout addition to any meal, whether you serve them as part of a feast or enjoy them as a snack.
Topped with a fresh mango salsa and salsa verde
With their satisfying crunch, tostones provide the perfect base for fresh mango salsa. The salsa, made from ripe mangoes, lime juice, coriander, jalapeño and red onion, offers a juicy, bright taste with a tropical note. The addition of salsa verde introduces a zesty sharpness and a mild heat that keeps the sweetness of the mangoes in check. You can also pair it with our green chilli sauce for a bold and tangy flavour that perfectly complements the tostones.
A crispy snack with Latin American and Caribbean roots
Tostones are a cherished snack deeply rooted in Latin American and Caribbean culture. Originating from these tropical regions, they are made from green plantains, a staple ingredient in many local dishes.
The traditional way of making them involves slicing the plantains, frying them lightly, pressing them flat, and then frying them again until they get a golden crispness. This method has been passed down through generations, making tostones a symbol of community.
Serve them as an appetiser, side dish, or snack for gatherings alongside salsa verde enchiladas, homemade fish tacos, and green tostadas with beans.
Add your own touch
Our recipe for tostones gives you a lot of freedom to experiment with flavours and toppings. Swap out the mango salsa for creamy guacamole or fresh pico de gallo. Guacamole adds a rich, creamy texture that contrasts with the crispiness of the fried plantains, while pico de gallo offers a bright, acidic crunch that complements its dense texture.
For added protein, layer on spicy shrimp, shredded chicken, or pulled pork to create a more substantial dish. You can also experiment with roasted vegetables like bell peppers or caramelised onions, which add smoky notes and natural sweetness.
Top your tostones with a squeeze of lime juice to add a zesty brightness or a touch of hot sauce for some extra heat. A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like coriander or parsley brings a refreshing finish. These simple additions allow you to customise the dish to your taste.
