Experience Puerto Rico's flavor with our easy Tostones . Made from green plantains, these crispy twice-fried treats are a perfect Caribbean side dish or snack .

Ingredients:

  - 2 green plantains

  - Vegetable oil, for frying

  - Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1-Peel the plantains and cut them into 1-inch thick slices.

2-Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

3-Fry the plantain slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are lightly golden and softened.

4-Remove the plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5-Using a tostonera (plantain press) or the bottom of a flat, heavy object, flatten each plantain slice to about half its original thickness.

6-Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are crispy and golden brown.

7-Remove the tostones from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

8-Sprinkle with salt to taste before serving.

Enjoy your crispy Tostones as a delicious side dish or snack!

Nutritional Values ​​:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for each ingredient:

2 Green Plantains (Medium, Raw)

- Calories: 400 kcal

- Carbohydrates: 104 g

- Protein: 4 g

- Fat: 0.6 g

- Fiber: 8 g

- Sugar: 48 g

- Potassium: 1,900 mg

- Vitamin C: 36 mg

- Vitamin A: 1,080 IU

benefits :

  - Rich in Complex Carbohydrates: Green plantains are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy and supporting healthy digestion.

  - High in Fiber: They contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and supports heart health.

  - Potassium Source: Green plantains are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure, supports muscle function, and balances electrolytes.

  - Vitamins and Antioxidants: They are a good source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and skin integrity.

Vegetable Oil (for Frying, 1 tablespoon)

- Calories: 120 kcal

- Fat: 14 g

 - Saturated Fat: 2 g

 - Monounsaturated Fat: 10 g

 - Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g

- Cholesterol: 0 mg

- Sodium: 0 mg

benefits :

  - Source of Healthy Fats: Depending on the type of oil used, vegetable oils can provide healthy unsaturated fats that support heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels.

  - Vitamin E Content: Many vegetable oils, such as sunflower or safflower oil, are rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.

  - Energy Boost: Vegetable oil is calorie-dense, providing a quick source of energy, especially useful in cooking high-energy dishes.

Salt (to Taste, 1/4 teaspoon)

- Calories: 0 kcal

- Sodium: 575 mg

- Fat: 0 g

- Carbohydrates: 0 g

- Protein: 0 g

benefits :

  - Enhances Flavor: Salt is essential for enhancing the natural flavors of food, making dishes more enjoyable.

  - Electrolyte Balance: Salt contains sodium, which helps maintain the body's fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function.

  - Preservation: Salt has natural preservative qualities, helping to extend the shelf life of foods by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

Plantains are a good source of potassium and vitamins A and C. However, frying them can increase their calorie and fat content. Consider moderation and using healthier cooking methods if you are watching your calorie or fat intake.