Patacones, also known as Colombian fried plantains, are a beloved snack and side dish in Colombian cuisine. They are made from green plantains that are fried, smashed, and fried again until crispy. This simple yet flavorful dish is popular throughout Latin America, where it is known by different names, including “tostones” in the Caribbean. Patacones are loved for their crunchy texture and versatility, as they can be topped with various ingredients like cheese, guacamole, or meat to create a satisfying meal. In this article, we’ll dive into the delicious world of patacones de Colombia and explore how to make them at home.
Ingredients
To make authentic Colombian patacones, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large green plantains
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
- Salt, to taste
- Optional toppings:
- Grated cheese
- Guacamole
- Hogao (Colombian tomato and onion sauce)
- Shredded chicken or beef
- Refried beans
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Plantains
- Peel the Plantains: Start by cutting off the ends of the plantains. Use a sharp knife to make a lengthwise slit through the skin, being careful not to cut into the flesh. Gently remove the peel with your fingers. If the skin is stubborn, you can use the knife to help lift it off.
- Slice the Plantains: Cut the peeled plantains into 1-inch thick slices. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even frying.
Step 2: Frying the Plantains
- Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large frying pan or deep skillet, and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- First Fry: Carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause uneven cooking. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the plantains from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Smashed Plantains
- Smash the Plantains: While the plantains are still warm, use the bottom of a heavy glass, a flat-bottomed bowl, or a tostonera (a wooden plantain press) to gently smash each slice to about half its original thickness. Be careful not to press too hard, as the plantains can break apart.
Step 4: Second Fry
- Second Fry: Once all the plantains have been smashed, return them to the hot oil for a second fry. Fry each side for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. Remove the fried plantains with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.
- Season with Salt: While still warm, sprinkle the patacones with salt to taste.
Tips and Variations
- Ripeness Matters: For the best texture, use green plantains. Ripe plantains, which are yellow or black, will be sweeter and softer, resulting in a different texture when fried.
- Serving Suggestions: Patacones can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even as the base of a Colombian patacon sandwich. Top them with your favorite ingredients, like melted cheese, pulled pork, or a refreshing salsa.
- Make It a Meal: Turn your patacones into a complete meal by adding protein-rich toppings like shredded chicken or beef, beans, and a dollop of guacamole.
- Healthier Version: If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the plantains after smashing them. Brush them with a little oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 1g
Conclusion
Patacones de Colombia offer a delicious taste of Colombian cuisine, with their crispy texture and versatile nature. Whether you enjoy them plain, with a sprinkle of salt, or topped with a variety of ingredients, Colombian fried plantains are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give this recipe a try and experience the authentic flavors of Colombia right in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your patacones creations with us in the comments below or on social media. We’d love to hear about your favorite toppings and variations! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes from easycrispyrecipes.com.