Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 green plantains
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Tostone press or heavy flat-bottomed object
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and cut them into 1-inch thick slices.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the plantain slices to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.
4. Remove the plantain slices from the skillet and place them on a cutting board.
5. Using a tostone press or a heavy flat-bottomed object, flatten each plantain slice to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Return the flattened plantain slices to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove the tostones from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the mojo sauce.
9. Serve the tostones hot with the mojo sauce on the side for dipping.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for frying the tostones
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Canola oil or coconut oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.
- Lemon juice can be used instead of lime juice.
- Parsley can be used instead of cilantro.
- Ground coriander can be used instead of cumin.
Variations:
- Add diced avocado or mango to the mojo sauce for a tropical twist.
- Top the tostones with shredded chicken or pork for a heartier meal.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the plantains are ripe but still firm for the best results.
- Use a tostone press or a heavy flat-bottomed object to flatten the plantains evenly.
- Drain excess oil from the tostones on a paper towel-lined plate before serving.
Storage Instructions:
- Tostones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the tostones, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the tostones on a platter with the mojo sauce in a small bowl in the center.
Garnishes:
- Garnish the tostones with chopped fresh cilantro or sliced green onions.
Pairings:
- Serve the tostones with a refreshing tropical drink, such as a piña colada or a mojito.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Black beans and rice
- Grilled vegetables
- Fried plantains
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the tostones are too hard to flatten, try cooking them for an additional minute on each side before flattening.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the plantains to the skillet to prevent them from absorbing too much oil.
Food History:
- Tostones are a traditional Caribbean dish made from green plantains that are fried, flattened, and fried again.
Flavor Profiles:
- Tostones are crispy and savory, while the mojo sauce is tangy and slightly sweet with a hint of garlic and cilantro.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the tostones as an appetizer or a side dish with your favorite Caribbean meal.
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Region: Caribbean