Looking for a delicious snack or side dish? Try Puerto Rican style fried green plantains, also known as tostones. At just 92 calories per slice, they make for a guilt-free treat!
But tostones aren't just low in calories, they're also rich in nutrients. Green plantains are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthier alternative to regular potato chips.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Puerto Rican style fried green plantains, including how to make them, their nutritional values, and serving options. Let's dive in!
What are Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains?
Tostones are a popular snack in Puerto Rico and other Latin American countries. They are made by twice-frying slices of green plantains and seasoning them with salt. Unlike regular ripe plantains, green plantains are starchy and have a firm texture, making them perfect for frying. The result is a crispy, savory snack that pairs well with almost any dip or sauce.
How to Make Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains?
To make tostones, start by peeling a green plantain and slicing it into 1-inch thick pieces. Then, heat up some oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the plantain slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and crispy. Remove them from the oil and flatten each slice with a tostonera or the bottom of a heavy glass. Finally, return the flattened slices to the oil and fry them for another 1-2 minutes until they become crispy and slightly browned. Season with salt and serve hot!
What are the Ingredients Needed for Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains?
To make tostones, you'll need green plantains, oil for frying, and salt for seasoning. That's it! You can also experiment with different dips or sauces to pair with your tostones.
How Many Calories Does a Slice of Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantain Contain?
A 1-inch slice of Puerto Rican style fried green plantain contains approximately 92 calories. This makes tostones a healthier snack option compared to other fried snacks like potato chips.
What are the Nutritional Values of Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains?
Aside from being low in calories, green plantains are also rich in nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. They are also low in fat and contain no cholesterol.
What are the Different Serving Options for Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains?
Tostones can be served as a snack or side dish, and they pair well with a variety of dips and sauces. Some popular options include garlic sauce, cilantro dip, or avocado salsa. You can also use tostones as a base for other dishes, like plantain nachos or toston burgers.
Why is Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantain a Popular Dish?
Tostones are a popular dish in Puerto Rico and other Latin American countries because they are delicious, affordable, and easy to make. They are also versatile and can be paired with a variety of different dips and sauces. Additionally, green plantains are a staple food in many Latin American cuisines and are often used in other dishes like mofongo or sancocho.
Are Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains Gluten-Free?
Yes, tostones are gluten-free since they are made from green plantains, which are a naturally gluten-free food. However, you should always check the labels of any dips or sauces you pair with your tostones to ensure they are also gluten-free.
What are the Health Benefits of Eating Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains?
Green plantains are high in dietary fiber, which promotes digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They are also a good source of vitamin C and potassium, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and heart health. Since tostones are fried, it's important to eat them in moderation and pair them with other healthy foods to ensure a balanced diet.
Are There Any Variations of Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains?
Yes, there are many different variations of tostones based on the seasonings and dips used. Some popular options include garlic and cilantro tostones, spicy tostones with chili powder, or sweet tostones with cinnamon and sugar.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Rican Style Fried Green Plantains (Tostones)
1. What are tostones?
Tostones are a popular Puerto Rican snack or side dish made from green plantains that have been sliced and twice-fried.
2. Are tostones healthy?
While tostones are not necessarily unhealthy, they are high in calories and carbohydrates. One slice of tostone contains approximately 92 calories. However, they can be a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
3. How are tostones made?
To make tostones, green plantains are sliced into rounds and then fried until they are lightly golden. The rounds are then flattened with a tostonera (a wooden press) and fried again until they are crispy and golden-brown.
4. What can tostones be served with?
Tostones can be served as a snack on their own or as a side dish with a variety of meals. They are often served with a dipping sauce, such as garlic or cilantro aioli, or topped with cheese, beans, or meat.
5. Are tostones a vegan-friendly food?
Yes, tostones are a vegan-friendly food as they are made only with plantains and oil. However, be aware that they may be fried in the same oil as non-vegan foods in some restaurants or kitchens.