Let’s talk about some Caribbean comfort food, shall we? If you haven’t had the chance to try Easy Tostones And Garlic Sauce, you’re missing out my foodie friend. These twice-fried plantain slices are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and the perfect vehicle for the creamy garlic sauce that accompanies them. Absolutely delicioso!
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, Cinco de Mayo party, or just having an intimate family dinner, these Tostones are perfect for any occasion. Why? Well as the name suggests, they are pretty easy to cook and delightfully savory. Plus, they are a perfect side dish if you decide to go for a full Latino menu. Trust me, your friends and family won’t stop raving about them!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Yield: 24 tostones
All set for the food adventure? Let’s dive into the recipe.
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 2 green plantains
- 1 cup of vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 lime
Equipment:
- Frying pan
- Kitchen knife
- Garlic press (optional)
The two key ingredients here are the green plantains and garlic. The plantains provide a mild yet sweet flavor which serves as a perfect balance to the strong and tangy garlic sauce. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright welcome zing to the mix. Worry not if you don’t have green plantains at hand, you can substitute them with sweet potatoes or yucca. The dipping sauce can also be tailor-made to your liking – go with sour cream or Greek yogurt if you’re not into mayo.
How To Make Easy Tostones And Garlic Sauce
1. Begin by peeling the green plantains. Do this by cutting off both ends of the plantain and making a long slit down the skin.
2. Cut the plantains into 1-inch thick slices.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan. Once the oil is hot, add the plantain slices and fry until they begin to turn light golden but aren’t fully cooked yet.
4. Remove them from the pan and press each slice with the bottom of a glass to flatten them. Return the disks to oil, frying until they are golden and crispy. Sprinkle with salt when they are still hot.
5. For the sauce, crush the garlic and mix it with the mayonnaise and lime juice.
6. Now dip and enjoy!
Tips For The Best Results
- Use green plantains. Ripe plantains will produce a lot of moisture and won’t give the desired results.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. They should be in a single layer.
- After the first round of frying, flatten the plantains well to ensure crispy Tostones.
Storage Tips
- Tostones are best consumed immediately. If you do have leftovers, ensure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Reheat them in a frying pan or oven to retain their crunchiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are green plantains?
A: Green plantains are unripe plantains. They are more starchy than ripe plantains and are perfect for this recipe.
Q: Can I substitute garlic for garlic powder in the sauce?
A: Yes, you can do so but note that fresh garlic provides a richer flavor. If you must substitute, use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove.
Q: What can I serve with Tostones?
A: Tostones pair well with grilled proteins and rice dishes. You can also enjoy them as is!
Q: How can I make the Tostones extra crispy?
A: After the first round of frying, insure to flatten the plantains well.
Q: Can I use olive oil for frying?
A: You can use any oil with a high smoke point. However, keep in mind that olive oil will alter the flavor slightly.
Nutritional Facts of Easy Tostones And Garlic Sauce
Per serving:
Calories: 270
Fat: 14g
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
As we reach the end, I can assure you that these Easy Tostones And Garlic Sauce are sure to be addictive! They are packed with incredible flavors and awesome textures. Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or alongside your favorite main dish. Happy cooking, peeps!
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