Amazing Patacones recipe (fried green plantains)
Patacones recipe – Patacones, also known as tostón, are a beloved popular side dish in Latin America, crafted from green plantains. We’re talking amazing, 5-star ratings crispy golden banana chips that’s one of my favorite things to serve as side dishes and snacks. These crispy treats offer a versatile addition to any meal, serving perfectly as a delectable side dish or tantalizing appetizer. If you’re looking for a healthy snack then this homemade chips recipe that’s a perfect snack for any diet is the one for you. It’s the ultimate crisp plantain chip that goes with your favorite salsa. There’s no need for regular crispy chips when you can eat these crispy plantain chips that come with great health benefits and amazing flavors.
Elevate the hot tostones flavor profile by pairing them with your preferred dipping sauce like avocado dip for an unforgettable culinary experience. These delicious patacones are full of so much flavor and are a great healthier alternative to chips and tacos.
Authentic accidentally vegan snack
Transport your taste buds to the vibrant flavors of Latin America with our irresistible Patacones recipe. Patacones, also known as tostones, are a beloved staple in many Latin American cuisines, offering a delicious combination of crispy texture and savory satisfaction. Made from green plantains, these golden delights are not only easy to prepare but also versatile, perfect for snacking, appetizers, or as a delightful popular side dish. In my humble opinion they’re the best plantains recipe! Follow along as we guide you through each step, from peeling and frying to flattening and seasoning, ensuring your journey to traditional tostones crispy perfection. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a slice of salty queso blanco, our Patacones recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the sun-drenched streets of Latin America with every bite. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Patacones!
Plantain recipes come in many different versions, but this easy tostones recipe made with smashed plantains makes my favorite tostones chips. Serve them with your favorite topping and enjoy the amazing twice-fried green plantain slices that’s the latin equivalent of tacos. Add a mojo sauce and get snacking!
In this Patacones Recipe we’re covering
- What are Patacones
- How do you know when a plantain is ripe
- Are plantain chips keto
- Patacones recipe equipment
- Patacones ingredients
- Best Patacones recipe
- How to make big tostones
- How to make baked sweet plantain recipe
- How to make plantain chips air fryer method
- Tips and tricks for making the best Patacones
- Patacones toppings ideas
- How to eat Patacones and tostones
- Plantain vs banana
- Patacones recipe FAQs
What are Patacones
Welcome to the world of Patacones – a mouthwatering fried green plantains treat that’s capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of food lovers around the globe! These amazing twice-fried plantains aren’t just a treat enjoyed in latin American countries. The twice-fried green plantains are just as popular outside of south America and the Dominican Republic. If you’ve never experienced the crispy, savory goodness of Patacones, get ready to embark on a flavorful adventure that’s sure to leave you craving more.
So, what exactly are Patacones? These delectable green plantain chips treats originate from the vibrant culinary traditions of Latin America, where they hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Picture thick slices of green plantains, fried to golden perfection, then flattened and fried again until irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The result? A heavenly snack that’s akin to a cross between potato chips and french fries – crunchy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying.
Amazing banana chips snack
But Patacones are more than just a delicious snack – they’re a culinary canvas for creativity and flavor exploration. From traditional toppings like salt and garlic to inventive combinations featuring tangy salsas, creamy guacamole, or zesty spices, the possibilities are endless when it comes to dressing up these crispy delights. Try serving the air fryer banana chips with a simple sauce and taste the magic happen.
Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, Patacones are sure to add a touch of Latin flair to any meal. So, grab a plate, gather your favorite toppings, and get ready to experience the irresistible charm of Patacones. Get ready to savor the flavors, embrace the crunch, and dive headfirst into a world of culinary delight. ¡Buen provecho! (Enjoy your meal!)
Get ready for a tasty journey with Patacones, and let your taste buds explore the vibrant flavors of Latin America!
What do Patacones taste like
Imagine biting into a Patacones – it’s like experiencing the best of both worlds, a delightful fusion of flavors and textures! Picture a crispy golden exterior that crunches with every bite, revealing a soft and tender interior that melts in your mouth. But it doesn’t stop there! The flavor profile is a symphony of savory goodness, with just the right amount of saltiness to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. It’s a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of comfort food, reminiscent of both potato chips and french fries, yet uniquely delicious in its own right. With each savory bite, you’ll find yourself transported to a world of culinary bliss, where every crunch is a celebration of flavor and every moment is a testament to the sheer joy of indulgence.
How do you know when a plantain is ripe
Determining the ripeness of a plantain depends on how you plan to use it in your cooking. Here’s how to know when a plantain is ripe based on its intended use:
1. Green Plantains (Unripe): Green plantains are firm and have a green peel. They are commonly used in savory dishes like patacones or tostones. For the best patacones opt for all green plantains with no yellow at all! Choose green plantains if you want them to be firm and starchy, with a mild flavor and texture similar to potatoes.
2. Yellow Plantains (Semi-Ripe): Yellow plantains have started to ripen and will have some yellow spots or streaks on the peel. They are slightly sweeter than green plantains and can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. Yellow plantains are ideal for dishes like maduros (sweet fried plantains) or for baking.
3. Black-Spotted Plantains (Ripe): As plantains ripen further, they will turn completely black and may develop a few soft spots. These ripe plantains are very sweet and are best suited for sweet recipes like desserts or for making sweet plantain puree.
In summary, the ripeness of a plantain depends on its intended use in your cooking. For savory dishes like patacones, opt for green plantains. For sweet dishes or desserts, choose ripe yellow or black-spotted plantains.
Are plantain chips keto
Plantain chips are generally not considered keto-friendly due to their higher carbohydrate content. Plantains are starchy fruits that contain more carbohydrates than other low-carb vegetables commonly consumed on a ketogenic diet. While plantain chips are a delicious snack, they typically contain a significant amount of carbohydrates, which can make it challenging to stay within the daily carbohydrate limit required for ketosis.
However, if you’re following a less restrictive version of the ketogenic diet or are incorporating occasional carb-rich snacks into your diet, you may be able to fit plantain chips into your macros in moderation. It’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes and to track your carbohydrate intake to ensure that you stay within your daily carb limit while enjoying plantain chips or any other higher-carb snacks.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a keto-friendly alternative to plantain chips, you may consider making your own low-carb chips using vegetables like zucchini or kale, which are lower in carbohydrates and suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Patacones recipe equipment
To make Patacones, you’ll need the following equipment:
1. Cutting Board: For peeling and slicing the plantains.
2. Knife: Any knife will do. Use a sharp paring knife or a regular sharp knife to peel and cut the plantains into slices.
3. Frying Pan or large Skillet: For frying the plantain slices. A non-stick skillet or cast iron pan works well. Frying the green banana chips is the traditional method of cooking.
4. Vegetable Oil: For frying the plantains. You’ll need enough oil to create a 1-inch layer in the frying pan. Canola oil, avocado oil, sunflower oil or coconut oil all work well for deep frying these homemade plantain chips.
5. Tongs or Slotted Spoon: For flipping the plantain slices while frying and removing them from the oil.
6. Paper Towels: To drain excess oil from the fried plantains.
7. Waxed Paper or Parchment Paper: For flattening the fried plantains.
8. Plate: To serve the finished Patacones.
9. Optional: Seasonings and Toppings: Depending on your preferences, you may want additional seasonings and toppings like salt, garlic powder, or salsa.
Optional equipment:
Oven or air fryer: if you’re opting to make baked sweet plantain chips you need an oven or air fryer. If you want to make healthy plantain chips you can make this easy recipe in an air fryer oven. Air fry plantains are deliciously crispy. You can also opt for baking in a regular oven. Jump to the recipe card to see how easy it is to make delicious plantain chips in air fryer.
With these basic kitchen tools and equipment, you’ll be all set to make delicious Patacones right at home!
Patacones ingredients
All you need to make the best Patacones recipe is plantains, vegetable oil and a little salt. This easy recipe is made with simple ingredients that pack a lot of flavor. Get ready to elevate your snack game with these crave-worthy Patacones! Made from 4 green plantains, these golden delights offer a crispy exterior and a soft, starchy interior, ensuring a satisfying crunch with every bite. You can usually get plantains at most grocery stores. Your local grocery store may have them next to the regular bananas in the fruit isle.
To achieve that perfect texture, you’ll need approximately 35oz of vegetable oil, ensuring a 1-inch layer of oil for frying. Opt for a vegetable oil that can handle the frying heat, like canola oil, avocado oil, or similar neutral-tasting oil that’s suited for personal consumption.
Don’t forget to sprinkle them with a generous pinch of salt, enhancing their savory goodness to perfection. I like to use a sprinkle of sea salt to bring out the flavor of the green bananas.
And for those craving a touch of sweetness, why not try adding a dash of our optional sweet seasoning – a tantalizing blend of 2 teaspoons of cinnamon sugar mix, elevating your Patacones to a whole new level of deliciousness! Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or simply indulging in a solo snack session, these Patacones are sure to impress with their irresistible flavor and crunchy texture. Get ready to dive into a world of culinary delight with every mouthwatering bite!
Best Patacones recipe
Craving a taste of Latin America? Dive into the crispy goodness of Patacones! Made from green plantains, these golden delights are fried to perfection, then flattened and fried again for extra crunch. Sprinkle with salt and serve with a slice of queso blanco for an authentic experience that’s sure to satisfy your cravings! Or make them part of a delicious patacon sandwich With all your favorite toppings.
Patacones recipe ingredients:
- 4 green plantains (don’t use yellow)
- 35oz vegetable oil (or enough to make a 1” layer of oil)
- 1/3 teaspoon salt
Optional sweet seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon sugar mix
How to make big tostones
Discover the art of making big, hearty tostones or patacones! These crispy delights are crafted from green plantains, sliced into thick pieces, fried until golden, and flattened to perfection. For extra big tostones, slice the plantains on a long angle to make larger pieces. With their satisfying crunch and savory flavor, they’re a perfect addition to any meal or a delightful snack on their own. Follow along for a simple yet delicious journey to mastering the art of big tostones!
How to make big tostones of fried green bananas:
1. Cut the ends of the plantain. Then start by peeling the plantain and cutting it into 3 or 4 pieces crosswise.
2. To peel the plantain easily, trim about 1/4″ off each end, then carefully slice the skin down one side without cutting into the fruit itself.
3. Gently pry the peel off with your fingers once you’ve slit one side.
4. Heat about 1″ of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until it’s hot.
5. For the first fry: Fry the plantain pieces on both sides for approximately 3 minutes, or until they turn golden.
6. Remove the fried plantains from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
7. Flatten the fried plantains by placing them one at a time between two pieces of waxed paper and pressing down gently with your hands.
8. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent them from sticking to the waxed paper.
9. Flatten them until they’re about 1/4″ thick.
10. The second fry: Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry them until both sides are golden brown.
11. Drain the fried plantains on a paper towel-covered plate, making sure to change the paper towels between fryings.
12. Sprinkle the fried plantains with salt before serving.
13. Serve immediately.
14. For an extra special touch, enjoy the fried plantains with a thin slice of queso blanco (salty white cheese) on top.
How to make baked sweet plantain recipe
Baking Patacones in the Oven- oven-baked plantains recipe:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the ends of the plantains off and start by peeling the plantains and cutting them into 3 or 4 pieces crosswise.
3. To peel the plantains easily, trim about 1/4” off each end, then carefully slice the skin down one side without cutting into the fruit itself.
4. Gently pry the peel off with your fingers once you’ve slit one side.
5. Place the plantain pieces on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Lightly brush or spray the plantains with vegetable oil.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sweet baked plantains are tender and lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
9. Once cooled, flatten the baked plantains by placing them one at a time between two pieces of parchment paper and pressing down gently on the soft sweet centers with your hands until they’re about 1/4” thick.
10. Place the flattened plantains back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with salt, and serve the oven-roasted sweet plantains immediately.
12. For an extra special touch, top the baked patacones with a thin slice of queso blanco (salty white cheese) before serving.
How to make plantain chips air fryer method
Baking tostones in an air fryer is a great alternative to frying. It uses less oil and makes the banana chips a good option for a low calorie diet.
Baking Patacones in an Air Fryer – air fryer plantain chips:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Start by peeling the plantains and cutting them into 3 or 4 pieces crosswise.
3. To peel the plantains easily, trim about 1/4” off each end, then carefully slice the skin down one side without cutting into the fruit itself.
4. Gently pry the peel off with your fingers once you’ve slit one side.
5. Lightly coat the plantain pieces with vegetable oil.
6. First time bake: Place the plantain pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
7. Cook in the preheated air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and lightly golden.
8. Remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
9. Once cooled, flatten the baked plantains by placing them one at a time between two pieces of parchment paper and pressing down gently with your hands until they’re about 1/4” thick.
10. Second bake: Place the flattened plantains back in the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
11. Remove from the air fryer, sprinkle with salt, and serve immediately.
12. For an extra special touch, top the air-fried patacones with a thin slice of queso blanco (salty white cheese) before serving.
Tips and tricks for making the best Patacones
Here are some tips and tricks for making the best Patacones:
1. Choose the Right Plantains: Opt for green (unripe) plantains that are firm and have a green peel. These plantains are ideal for making Patacones as they have a starchy texture that crisps up nicely when fried.
2. Slice Evenly: Make sure to slice the plantains into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and have a consistent texture.
3. Preheat the Oil: Preheat the vegetable oil in the frying pan before adding the plantain slices. This helps ensure that the Patacones cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior.
4. Flatten Carefully: When flattening the fried plantains, use gentle pressure to avoid smashing them too thin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch to maintain a nice balance of crispiness and tenderness.
5. Use a Flat Surface: Place the fried plantains between two pieces of waxed paper or parchment paper on a flat surface before flattening them. This helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to flatten them evenly.
6. Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: After flattening, fry the plantains a second time to achieve extra crispiness. This step helps ensure that the Patacones are golden brown and perfectly crispy on the outside.
7. Drain Excess Oil: After frying, place the Patacones on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps prevent them from becoming too greasy.
Extra tips
8. Season Immediately: Season the Patacones with salt or any desired seasonings immediately after frying while they’re still hot. This allows the seasonings to adhere to the surface and enhances their flavor.
9. Serve Immediately: Patacones are best served immediately after frying while they’re still warm and crispy. Enjoy the best tostones as a delicious snack or side dish alongside your favorite toppings or dips.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to making the best Patacones right at home!
Patacones toppings ideas
Here are some delicious savory Patacones topping ideas:
1. Guacamole: Make a creamy guacamole with avocado mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
2. Salsa: Fresh tomato salsa with onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice.
3. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans topped with cheese, salsa, and sour cream.
4. Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy salsa made with diced pineapple, bell peppers, onions, and cilantro.
5. Chipotle Mayo: Spicy chipotle mayonnaise drizzled over the patacones. A creamy chipotle sauce is amazing with traditional tostones. Alternatively, try making a mayo ketchup if you aren’t fond of the chipotle spice.
6. Fried Eggs: Top the patacones with a fried egg and salsa for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
These toppings add a burst of flavor and variety to your patacones, making them a versatile and satisfying dish for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations to find your favorite!
Patacones seasoning
Here are some different seasonings you can use to add flavor to your patacones:
1. Garlic Powder: Sprinkle garlic powder over the fried plantains for a savory garlic flavor.
2. Adobo Seasoning: A blend of garlic, oregano, black pepper, and other spices for a zesty kick.
3. Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color to the patacones.
4. Cajun Seasoning: A spicy blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and other herbs and spices.
5. Chili Powder: Adds a hint of heat and smokiness to the patacones.
6. Cumin: A warm and earthy spice that pairs well with the sweetness of the plantains.
7. Lime Zest: Grate some lime zest over the patacones for a fresh and citrusy flavor.
8. Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a Mediterranean twist.
9. Onion Powder: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness to the patacones.
10. Curry Powder: Aromatic spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin for a flavorful and exotic taste.
Feel free to mix and match these seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations. Adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences, and enjoy experimenting with different flavors!
Delicious baked sweet plantain recipe variations
Here are some delicious sweet seasonings to make sweet plantains:
1. Cinnamon Sugar: A classic combination of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar for a warm and sweet flavor. With very little effrot you can turn the large tostones into delicious cinnamon snacks.
2. Honey: Drizzle honey over the cooked plantains for a natural sweetness and sticky glaze.
3. Brown Sugar: Sprinkle brown sugar over the plantains before cooking for a rich and caramelized sweetness.
4. Vanilla Extract: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the plantains for a fragrant and sweet flavor.
5. Nutmeg: Grate fresh nutmeg over the plantains for a warm and aromatic spice.
6. Coconut Sugar: Use coconut sugar instead of regular sugar for a slightly nutty and caramel-like sweetness. It’s one of my favorite ways to bring natural sweetness to the pressed plantains with less sugar.
More delicious patacones variations
7. Maple Syrup: Drizzle maple syrup over the cooked ripe sweet plantains for a sweet and indulgent flavor.
8. Allspice: Sprinkle ground allspice over the plantains for a warm and complex sweetness reminiscent of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
9. Orange Zest: Grate fresh orange zest over the plantains for a bright and citrusy flavor.
10. Cardamom: Crush whole cardamom pods or use ground cardamom to add a unique and fragrant sweetness to the plantains.
These sweet seasonings can be used individually or combined to create delicious variations of sweet plantains. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination!
How to eat Patacones and tostones
Here are some delicious ideas for how to enjoy patacones and tostones:
1. Appetizer Platter: Serve patacones and tostones alongside a variety of dips and toppings, such as guacamole, salsa, and queso blanco, for a flavorful appetizer platter.
2. Patacon Sandwich Base: Use flattened tostones or patacones as a base for sandwiches or sliders, stacking them with your favorite fillings like grilled portobello mushrooms, grilled tofu chicken, or black beans.
3. Nachos: Top crispy tostones or patacones with melted cheese, black beans, salsa, sour cream, and jalapeños for a delicious twist on classic nachos.
4. Salad Topping: Break up patacones or tostones into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them over salads for added crunch and texture.
5. Breakfast Hash: Serve crispy tostones or patacones alongside eggs, avocado, and salsa for a hearty breakfast hash.
6. Tostones Rellenos: Top flattened tostones with shredded cheese and salsa, then bake until the cheese is melted for a tasty stuffed appetizer.
More delicious ways to eat tostones and patacones
7. Patacones Cups: Press patacones into muffin tins to create cups, then fill them with your favorite toppings like shredded vegan chicken, beans, and cheese for a fun and portable snack.
8. Patacones Pizza: Use flattened patacones as a crust for mini pizzas, topping them with marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings before baking until bubbly and golden.
9. Tostones Tacos: Use flattened tostones as taco shells, filling them with your favorite taco ingredients like seasoned tofu, lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Air fryer tostones and baked tostones are great for a lighter version of banana chips.
10. Patacones Bruschetta: Top crispy patacones with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil for a fresh and flavorful bruschetta topping.
These ideas showcase the versatility of patacones and tostones, offering endless possibilities for delicious and creative dishes. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and serving styles to find your favorite way to enjoy these crispy treats!
Plantain vs banana
Exploring the culinary world often leads us to discover the subtle differences between seemingly similar ingredients. Such is the case with plantains and bananas, two members of the same botanical family that offer distinct flavors, textures, and culinary applications. In the realm of Latin American cuisine, these two fruits play starring roles in beloved dishes like patacones and tostones, each contributing its unique characteristics to the final creation. Join us as we delve into the comparison between plantains and bananas, exploring their differences in texture, flavor, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, all through the lens of crafting the perfect patacones.
1. Variety:
• Plantains: Plantains are a variety of banana that are larger, starchier, and less sweet than dessert bananas. They are commonly used in savory dishes and are a staple food in many tropical regions.
• Bananas: Bananas are the sweet, yellow fruit that are typically eaten raw as a snack or used in desserts. They are softer and sweeter than plantains.
2. Texture and Flavor:
• Plantains: Plantains have a firmer texture and are less sweet than bananas. They are often cooked before being eaten and can be boiled, fried, or baked. When fried, plantains develop a crispy exterior and a soft, starchy interior.
• Bananas: Bananas have a soft, creamy texture and a sweet flavor. They are usually eaten raw and are not typically used in savory cooking.
3. Cooking Method for Patacones:
• Plantains: Green (unripe) plantains are commonly used to make patacones because of their firm texture and lower sugar content. They are sliced, fried, flattened, and then fried again to create crispy patacones.
• Bananas: While ripe bananas can be used to make a different type of fried treat, they are not suitable for making patacones due to their softer texture and higher sugar content.
4. Usage in Different Cuisines:
• Plantains: Plantains are a staple ingredient in many Latin American, Caribbean, African, and Southeast Asian cuisines. They are used in both savory and sweet dishes, including patacones, tostones, plantain chips, and plantain-based desserts.
• Bananas: Bananas are more commonly used in desserts, smoothies, and baked goods in Western cuisines. They are also eaten raw as a snack or added to breakfast dishes like cereal and oatmeal.
In summary, while both plantains and bananas belong to the same botanical family, they have different characteristics that make them suitable for different culinary purposes. When making patacones, it’s essential to use green (unripe) plantains for their firm texture and lower sugar content, which allows them to crisp up when fried and create the desired crunchy texture.
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Patacones recipe FAQ
No, patacones are traditionally made with green (unripe) plantains because they have a firmer texture and lower sugar content, which allows them to crisp up when fried. Ripe plantains are softer and sweeter, making them unsuitable for patacones.
Aim to slice the plantains into pieces that are approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. This thickness ensures that the patacones will cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior.
Yes, you can reuse the oil for frying the plantains, but it’s important to strain it to remove any food particles and store it properly in a cool, dark place. However, if the oil has become dark, has a strong odor, or starts smoking excessively, it’s best to discard it and use fresh oil for frying.
To prevent the patacones from sticking to the waxed paper when flattening them, you can lightly grease the paper with oil or cooking spray. Additionally, make sure not to apply too much pressure when flattening the patacones to avoid them sticking to the paper.
Banana Chips Cooking and storage FAQ
While traditional patacones are fried twice to achieve their crispy texture, you can bake them as an alternative method. However, baking may result in slightly different texture and flavor compared to frying. To bake patacones, brush them with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
Store leftover tostones in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Yes, you can freeze patacones for longer-term storage. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
In English, patacones are often referred to as “fried green plantains” or “fried plantain slices.” They are a popular Latin American dish made from green (unripe) plantains that are sliced, fried, flattened, and then fried again until crispy. Patacones are typically served as a side dish or snack and are enjoyed with various toppings and dips.
Plantain freezing FAQ
Yes, you can freeze plantains for longer-term storage. Follow these steps to freeze plantains properly:
1. Selecting Plantains: Choose firm, unripe plantains for freezing. Ripe plantains are too soft and are better suited for immediate consumption.
2. Peeling and Slicing: Peel the plantains and slice them into desired shapes, such as rounds or chunks.
3. Blanching (Optional): While not necessary, blanching plantains before freezing can help preserve their color and texture. To blanch, briefly immerse the plantain slices in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool quickly.
4. Draining and Drying: Drain the blanched or freshly sliced plantains and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
5. Freezing: Arrange the plantain slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze the plantain slices until solid, typically for about 1-2 hours.
6. Storage: Once frozen solid, transfer the plantain slices to airtight freezer bags or containers. Label the bags or containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
7. Freezer Life: Frozen plantains can be stored in the freezer for up to 3-6 months. However, for the best quality, it’s recommended to use them within the first 2-3 months.
8. Thawing: To thaw frozen plantains, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw them more quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for a few hours.
9. Cooking: Once thawed, frozen plantains can be cooked using your preferred method, such as frying, baking, or boiling, depending on the recipe.
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Best Patacones recipe: Easy fried green plantains
Ingredients
Patacones recipe ingredients:
- 4 green plantains don’t use yellow
- 35 oz (1liter) vegetable oil or enough to make a 1” layer of oil
- 1/3 teaspoon salt
- Optional sweet seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon sugar mix
Instructions
How to make big tostones of fried green bananas:
- Start by peeling the plantain and cutting it into 3 or 4 pieces crosswise.
- To peel the plantain easily, trim about 1/4″ off each end, then carefully slice the skin down one side without cutting into the fruit itself.
- Gently pry the peel off with your fingers once you’ve slit one side.
- Heat about 1″ of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until it’s hot.
- Fry the plantain pieces on both sides for approximately 3 minutes, or until they turn golden.
- Remove the fried plantains from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Flatten the fried plantains by placing them one at a time between two pieces of waxed paper and pressing down gently with your hands.
- Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent them from sticking to the waxed paper.
- Flatten them until they’re about 1/4″ thick.
- Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry them until both sides are golden brown.
- Drain the fried plantains on a paper towel-covered plate, making sure to change the paper towels between fryings.
- Sprinkle the fried plantains with salt before serving.
- Serve immediately.
- For an extra special touch, enjoy the fried plantains with a thin slice of queso blanco (salty white cheese) on top.
Baking Patacones in the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Start by peeling the plantains and cutting them into 3 or 4 pieces crosswise.
- To peel the plantains easily, trim about 1/4” off each end, then carefully slice the skin down one side without cutting into the fruit itself.
- Gently pry the peel off with your fingers once you’ve slit one side.
- Place the plantain pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly brush or spray the plantains with vegetable oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the plantains are tender and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Once cooled, flatten the baked plantains by placing them one at a time between two pieces of parchment paper and pressing down gently with your hands until they’re about 1/4” thick.
- Place the flattened plantains back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with salt, and serve immediately.
- For an extra special touch, top the baked patacones with a thin slice of queso blanco (salty white cheese) before serving.
Baking Patacones in an Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Start by peeling the plantains and cutting them into 3 or 4 pieces crosswise.
- To peel the plantains easily, trim about 1/4” off each end, then carefully slice the skin down one side without cutting into the fruit itself.
- Gently pry the peel off with your fingers once you’ve slit one side.
- Lightly coat the plantain pieces with vegetable oil.
- Place the plantain pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
- Cook in the preheated air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and lightly golden.
- Remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
- Once cooled, flatten the baked plantains by placing them one at a time between two pieces of parchment paper and pressing down gently with your hands until they’re about 1/4” thick.
- Place the flattened plantains back in the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer, sprinkle with salt, and serve immediately.
- For an extra special touch, top the air-fried patacones with a thin slice of queso blanco (salty white cheese) before serving.