Tostones (green plantains)

Plátanos, or plantains, are sold either green or yellow. The yellow, considered a fruit, are a simple side dish.The green are only slightly more work. Tostones is a national dish of Puerto Rico.

• 2 green plantains
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup oil
• garlic powder (optional)

METHOD

To peel plantains, it is best to wet hands and rub them with a little salt. This will prevent juices from sticking.

Cut plantains into 1 inch slices. Dissolve salt in 1 cup warm water. Set salted water aside.

Heat oil in small saute pan and fry slices over medium heat until they soften (about 7 - 10 minutes). Remove and drain on paper towels.

Mash each slice, so it is about 1/2 inch thick. You may cover slices with absorbent paper and squash them with a filled soup can. Or, do as we did, and whack them with a heavy cleaver.

Dip slices in warm salted water. Fry a second time until slices are crisp. Drain before serving. Sprinkle with garlic powder.

Serves: 4 - 6

This recipe from www.inmamaskitchen.com

Contributor: Jose Orbi for Alicia Bibiloni

 

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