Gadget Tree: Tostonera
Deep fried. Twice. Carb-loaded. Starchy.
Yep, that’s my kind of comfort food: tostones. And I just found an easier way to make them: a tostonera.
You have nooo idea what I’m talking about, do you?
Tostones are twice fried* chunks of smashed plantains, which are the bigger, firmer cousin of the banana, but with a lot less sugar. They’re a staple in Cuba and the Caribbean, as well as other parts of the world. They’re available in many supermarkets or ethnic grocery stores.
Back to the tostonera. You have to smash the plantains after the first fry, so a tostonera makes it easier. This little gadget is also great for getting the kids to help. What kid doesn’t like smashing things?
Here’s a demo. Don’t forget the first fry before the smashing begins (I don’t show it in the video)!
The tostonera I found in Cuba is metal, but they are also made of wood, plastic and bamboo and come in different sizes.
Now…get out there and start smashing!
*Twice Fried: That phrase probably makes you shudder, but remember I said it was a comfort food… that means only occasionally. Tostones also make a great appetizer served with a dipping sauce!
Tostones
(Fried Plantains)
prep: 10 minutes
cook: 10 minutes
you’ll need…
3 green plantains, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
3 cups canola oil
salt to taste
let’s get to it…
Line two baking sheets with paper towels. Set aside.
Heat the oil in a large saucepan (or deep fryer) to 375°F. Use a deep fry thermometer if you don’t have a deep fryer.
Fry the plantains for 2 to 3-minutes or until lightly golden and semi-soft. You may have to do this in batches.
Remove plantains with a slotted spoon and place on one of the baking sheets. Let rest 1 to 2 minutes.
Smash the plantain chunks with the tostonera (you can also smash them with a mallet or by pressing down on them with a small plate).
Return the plantain to the hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Remove from oil and place on the other baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt to taste. Serve immediately!
make ahead: Peel and cut the plantains. Fry and smash. Let cool completely. Place cooled plantains in a Ziploc® Brand Freezer Gallon Bags. Freeze. Thaw completely in the refrigerator and fry until golden brown and crisp.
