Embark on a culinary adventure with our tantalizing selection of fried green plantain recipes, a symphony of flavors that capture the essence of tropical tradition. These delectable dishes, rooted in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines, showcase the versatility of this humble ingredient, transforming it into an array of crispy, savory, and utterly irresistible creations.
From the classic allure of Tostones, where green plantains are twice-fried until golden brown and served with a variety of dipping sauces, to the vibrant explosion of Rellenos de Plátano Verde, where mashed green plantains are stuffed with a savory picadillo filling and fried to perfection. Savor the irresistible crunch of chips and sticks made from thinly sliced green plantains, perfect for snacking or adding a touch of crispy delight to your favorite dishes.
Indulge in the comforting embrace of Plátano Verde con Carne, a hearty stew where green plantains and tender meat simmer together in a flavorful broth, or explore the unique flavors of Plátanos Encebollados, where green plantains are combined with aromatic onions and spices, creating a tantalizing side dish that complements any main course.
Each recipe in this collection is a testament to the culinary ingenuity of the regions where green plantains are cherished. With step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations to suit every palate, these recipes invite you to embark on a journey of culinary exploration and create dishes that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
FRIED GREEN PLANTAINS
Tostones. In many Latin American countries, crunchy tostones are as popular (and served as often) as french fries are here. A single bite of their salty crust and tender interior will tell you why they're so beloved.
Provided by Melissa Roberts
Categories Vegetable Side Fry Vegetarian Quick & Easy Plantain Gourmet Vegan Pescatarian Dairy Free Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
Yield Makes 4 to 6 (side dish) servings
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- Cut ends from each plantain with a sharp small knife, then cut a lengthwise slit through peel. Cut plantains crosswise into 1-inch-thick pieces and, beginning at slit, pry off peel.
- Heat 1/2 inch oil in a deep 10- to 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat until just hot enough to sizzle when a piece of plantain is added. Fry plantains in 2 batches, turning occasionally with tongs, until tender and just golden, 5 to 7 minutes per batch. Transfer plantains to paper towels to drain, reserving oil in skillet.
- Flatten each plantain to 1/4 inch thick with a tostone press or bottom of a heavy saucepan.
- Stir together warm water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Heat reserved oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Dip a flattened plantain in salted water and gently place, without patting dry, in hot oil. (Plantains will not spatter.) Repeat with several more pieces and fry plantains (without crowding) in 4 or 5 batches, turning occasionally, until golden, about 3 minutes per batch. Transfer with tongs to clean paper towels to drain. Season with salt and serve immediately.
PLATANOS VERDES (FRIED GREEN PLANTAINS)
Provided by Daisann Mclane
Categories easy, quick, side dish
Time 10m
Yield Six to eight servings
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- In a large, deep skillet or wok, heat the oil (about a depth of 1 inch) to 350 degrees.
- Sprinkle the plantain slices with lime juice and place them in the hot oil. Fry until the plantains are golden and slightly soft, but not brown (lower heat if necessary), about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Keep the oil hot.
- Place the rounds between brown paper and flatten slightly, using a rolling pin or the heel of your hand. Dip the pressed rounds in a bowl of lightly salted water and return them to the skillet. Fry until deep golden, about 45 seconds to 1 minute. Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels and serve.
TWICE-FRIED AND MASHED GREEN PLANTAINS (TOSTONES)
Provided by Sunny Anderson
Categories side-dish
Time 12m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- In a heavy pot, add enough oil to fill halfway. Heat until a deep-frying thermometer reads 350 degrees F or the handle of a wooden spoon begins to sizzle immediately when dipped in the oil.
- Add the plantains and fry until bright yellow and slightly golden brown, about 4 minutes. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon to a sheet of parchment paper. Make sure all pieces are standing tall on the cut side, then place another sheet over the top. Using a small plate, glass or other flat item smash each piece into a 1/4-inch jagged circle.
- Place the plantain discs back in the oil and fry for 4 to 6 more minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove to a wire rack and sprinkle with salt.
FRIED GREEN PLANTAINS (TOSTONES DE PLATANO VERDE)
Steps:
- Preheat oil in a fryer or Dutch oven to 365 degrees F.
- Peel the plantains and cut into 1-inch pieces. Place into preheated oil and fry for 5 minutes or until they begin to brown. Drain them on a paper-towel lines plate. Flatten them using a Tostonera or the bottom of a metal can and fry again at 385 degrees F for approximately 3 minutes. Drain again and sprinkle with salt and Garlic Mojo. For softer fried plantains, soak for a few minutes in salted water after the first fry, drain and fry again.
- Chop up the garlic very thinly or crush using a mortar and pestle or food processor with the salt to form a thick paste. In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic paste and juice, and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or longer.
Tips:
- Choose plantains that are green and firm, with no blemishes or bruises.
- Peel the plantains before cooking. You can use a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler.
- Slice the plantains into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Soak the plantain slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes before frying. This will help to remove the starch and make them less likely to stick together.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the plantain slices in batches, until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, or the plantains will not cook evenly.
- Drain the plantain slices on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve the plantain slices hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.
Conclusion:
Fried green plantains are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. They are a popular street food in many Latin American countries, and they are also a common ingredient in Caribbean and African cuisine. With their crispy texture and slightly sweet flavor, fried green plantains are a great way to add some variety to your next meal.
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