The first crisp bite of a toston transports me straight to sun-drenched Caribbean beaches, where every gathering is a celebration. Imagine golden plantains, perfectly fried and crisp on the outside, yet tender within, delivering a delightful crunch that dances on your palate. This recipe isn’t just a classic—it’s a beloved Puerto Rican delight, made even more irresistible with a garlicky mayo-ketchup dip that offers both creaminess and tang. Whether you’re an experienced chef or new to the kitchen, these twice-fried plantains are your ticket to a quick, mouthwatering side dish or snack that easily elevates any meal. Tostones are not only vegetarian and gluten-free; they also bring a burst of flavor to your kitchen, making them a perfect antidote to mundane fast food. So let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying tostones recipe that’s sure to impress!
Why Love This Tostones Recipe?
Crispy and light, these tostones provide an excellent alternative to traditional snacks, delivering satisfying crunch with every bite.
Effortless preparation means you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for gatherings or casual snacking.
Versatile and adaptable, pair them with various dips or toppings to suit your taste—experiment with spices, or enjoy them plain!
Packed with flavor, the combination of perfectly fried plantains and a creamy mayo-ketchup dip makes every bite a delight.
Healthy indulgence: These tostones are naturally gluten-free and can fit into any vegetarian diet, offering guilt-free snacking!
Need more snack ideas? Check out this delicious dip recipe to complement your tostones!
Tostones Recipe Ingredients
For the Plantains
- Green Plantains – unripe plantains provide the best crispness; aim for large, firm ones.
- Water – essential for soaking the fried plantains to help season them; adjust soak time for desired saltiness.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – a high smoke point oil is best for frying tostones; canola or sunflower oil works as substitutes.
- Kosher Salt – enhances flavor post-frying; feel free to use sea salt or adobo seasoning for variation.
For the Mayo-Ketchup Dip
- Mayo – adds creaminess to the dip; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option if desired.
- Ketchup – provides a sweet tang to the sauce; any preferred brand or homemade ketchup is perfect.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – infuses aromatic flavor into both the tostones and the mayo-ketchup sauce; fresh is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Fresh Lime Juice – brings acidity to balance the flavors; lemon juice is a flavorful alternative.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create an unforgettable tostones recipe that will not only satiate cravings but also impress your guests!
How to Make Tostones
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Heat oil: Begin by pouring 2 to 3 cups of vegetable oil into a deep pot and heat it over medium-high heat. Aim for a temperature of 350°F for the best frying results.
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Fry plantains: Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and beautifully crisp.
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Drain excess oil: Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the plantains from the oil. Place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil and maintain that crispy texture.
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Smash plantains: With a flat tool, such as a plate or a cutting board, gently smash each fried plantain slice to form discs about half an inch thick. This step helps achieve that inviting crunch!
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Fry again: Return the smashed plantains back into the hot oil and fry them for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are extra crispy and golden.
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Final drain & season: Carefully remove the second-fried tostones from the oil and place them on paper towels once more. Sprinkle them with kosher salt while they are still hot to enhance their flavor.
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Make the dip: In a bowl, mix together ⅓ cup of ketchup, ⅓ cup of mayo, and the minced garlic. This garlicky mayo-ketchup will take your tostones to the next level!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Puerto Rican Tostones with Mayo-Ketchup?
Elevate your tostones experience by crafting a delightful feast that delights every palate.
- Garlicky Shrimp: Tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter adds a savory contrast to the crispy plantains, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Mango Salsa: A vibrant mix of diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime boosts freshness and adds a sweet-tangy punch to the crispy bites.
- Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad, loaded with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado, offers a satisfying texture while perfectly complementing the crunchy tostones.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet plantains, creating a well-rounded meal bursting with Caribbean flair.
- Spicy Avocado Dip: Smooth and creamy, this dip balances the crunch of the tostones and adds a refreshing heat that elevates your snacking experience.
- Coconut Rice: Serve your tostones alongside fluffy coconut rice for a tropical twist that harmonizes with their savory and sweet flavors.
- Rum Punch: Bright and fruity, this refreshing cocktail or mocktail offers a delightful beverage pairing that complements the Caribbean vibe of your meal.
- Churros: For a sweet ending, crispy churros rolled in sugar and served with chocolate sauce provide a delightful dessert that echoes the magic of your tostones.
Tostones Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to fit your taste and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Swap mayo for avocado or tahini for a creamy, plant-based version. The buttery texture will complement the crunchy tostones beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mayo-ketchup sauce for a fiery twist. It brings a delightful heat that enhances each bite.
- Garlic Lover: For an extra punch, increase the garlic in the sauce or sprinkle roasted garlic over the tostones before serving. It amplifies that savory flavor in every crunch.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh cilantro or parsley into the mayo-ketchup for a vibrant flavor boost. The herbs add freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich dip.
- Crispy Cheese: Top your tostones with crumbled queso fresco or feta before serving. The creaminess of the cheese adds a delightful texture, creating a flavor explosion.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey or agave syrup over your finished tostones for an unexpected sweet contrast to the salty crunch. It’s a unique way to tantalize your taste buds!
- Citrusy Zing: Infuse the mayo-ketchup dip with a little grated lime zest for a zesty flavor enhancement. It brightens the sauce and complements the plantains perfectly.
- Baked Option: For a healthier twist, consider baking the smashed plantains in the oven after seasoning them with olive oil and salt. They’ll still be deliciously satisfying!
How to Store and Freeze Tostones
Fridge: Store leftover tostones in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just remember that they are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness!
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled tostones in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the ultimate crunch, reheat frozen tostones in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat tostones within a few hours, storing them at room temperature is fine; just cover them lightly to prevent drying out.
Make Ahead Options
These tostones are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can slice the green plantains and store them in water with a sprinkle of salt up to 24 hours in advance to keep them from browning. Additionally, the mayo-ketchup dip can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the prepped plantains as instructed; the key is ensuring the oil is hot enough for that irresistibly crispy texture. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll have fresh, delicious tostones ready to enjoy with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings!
Expert Tips for Tostones Recipe
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Oil Temperature: Always check the oil temperature with a thermometer; it should be around 350°F to ensure proper frying and achieve that crispy texture.
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Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pot! Fry your plantain slices in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature, preventing soggy tostones.
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Perfect Smash: Use a flat tool to gently smash your fried plantains—don’t press too hard! A half-inch thickness is ideal for the perfect crunch.
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Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and limes in the mayo-ketchup dip for the most aromatic and zesty flavors; they really elevate this tostones recipe.
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Serve Immediately: Enjoy your tostones fresh out of the fryer for the best texture; reheating can make them lose their delightful crunch.
Tostones (Twice-Fried Plantains) Recipe FAQs
What type of plantains should I use for tostones?
Absolutely! For the best tostones, you should opt for green, unripe plantains. They should be firm and free from dark spots to ensure that they fry beautifully crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. Avoid yellow or black plantains, as they won’t provide the desired texture.
How long can I store cooked tostones in the fridge?
Very good question! Cooked tostones can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. While they can be kept, they are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their crispy texture. To reheat, simply pop them in an air fryer or oven to revive that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze leftover tostones? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your tostones, let them cool completely after frying. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen tostones to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
Why are my tostones not crispy?
You might have overcrowded the frying pot! When frying, it’s important to work in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature and achieve that crispy texture. Additionally, ensure you’re using enough oil and that it reaches around 350°F before adding the plantains. Overly smashed plantains can also lead to sogginess, so be gentle when flattening them!
Are tostones safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This tostones recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with such dietary considerations. However, if you have food allergies (like nuts or eggs), always double-check your mayonnaise brand or consider using Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute for the dipping sauce.
Can I make tostones in advance for a gathering?
Of course! While tostones are best served fresh, you can prepare them ahead by frying them once and then storing them in the fridge before the second fry. Just reheat them before serving for that perfect crispiness. Remember to allow them to come to room temperature and fry them again for just a couple of minutes to get that delightful crunch back!
Remember, these Tostones (Twice-Fried Plantains) Recipe FAQs are here to guide you every step of the way. Happy cooking!
Crispy Tostones Recipe with Irresistible Mayo-Ketchup Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by pouring 2 to 3 cups of vegetable oil into a deep pot and heat it over medium-high heat. Aim for a temperature of 350°F for the best frying results.
- Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and beautifully crisp.
- Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the plantains from the oil. Place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
- With a flat tool, gently smash each fried plantain slice to form discs about half an inch thick.
- Return the smashed plantains back into the hot oil and fry them for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are extra crispy and golden.
- Carefully remove the second-fried tostones from the oil and place them on paper towels once more. Sprinkle them with kosher salt while they are still hot.
- In a bowl, mix together ⅓ cup of ketchup, ⅓ cup of mayo, and the minced garlic to make the dip.