Authentic Tostones Recipe: How to Make Fried Green Plantains
If you’ve been craving crispy, authentic tostones—the golden fried green plantains loved across the Caribbean and Latin America—you’re in the right place. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make perfectly crunchy tostones at home using simple, natural ingredients and share a fresh tropical salsa to take them to the next level. Whether you’re new to Caribbean cooking or just looking for a flavorful side dish, this guide will have you frying like a pro in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Tostones
- 2–3 young green plantains
- Sea salt (to taste)
- 3 cups spring water
- 2 tbsp sea moss gel (optional, for added nutrients)
- Avocado oil (for frying)
For the Tropical Salsa
- ½ cup pineapple chunks
- ½ cup mango chunks
- ½ cup diced Roma tomato
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 small shallot, minced
- ¼ jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely diced (adjust to spice level)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
Step 1 – Prepare the Plantains
1️⃣ Peel the Plantains
Using a paring knife — we recommend the Paudin 5-Piece Knife Set — carefully slice lengthwise along the ridges.
Lift the peel without cutting into the fruit.
2️⃣ Cut into Pieces
Slice each plantain into 6–8 even pieces, then set aside.
3️⃣ Prepare the Saltwater
In a bowl, dissolve a pinch of sea salt in 3 cups spring water.
If adding sea moss gel, whisk in 2 tbsp first for even blending. Set aside.
Step 2 – First Frying
1️⃣ Heat the Oil
Add avocado oil to a pan, enough to submerge halfway.
Heat on medium until warm (not smoking).
2️⃣ Fry the Plantains
Place slices in the oil. For stainless steel, move them occasionally to prevent sticking.
Fry until the bottoms turn light golden brown.
3️⃣ Flip and Fry Evenly
Turn each piece and fry the opposite side. Once both sides are golden, stand them upright briefly.
Remove and place on a cutting board to cool.
Step 3 – Flatten the Plantains
1️⃣ Press the Plantains
Place between two cutting boards — a large one for the base and a smaller one to press.
(We love this Bamboo or Wood Cutting Board).
Press 4–6 at a time until thin but still intact.
2️⃣ Dip in Saltwater
Quickly dip each flattened plantain in the prepared saltwater for that extra crunch.
Step 4 – Second Frying
1️⃣ Heat the Oil Again
If you’re making a big batch, use two pans to save time.
Add fresh oil and heat to medium.
2️⃣ Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Fry both sides until golden brown and crisp.
Transfer to a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 5 – Make the Tropical Salsa
1️⃣ Dice the Ingredients
Finely chop pineapple, mango, cilantro, scallions, shallot, garlic, and jalapeño.
2️⃣ Mix and Season
Combine in a medium bowl, sprinkle with sea salt, and let sit 5–10 minutes to meld flavors.
This tropical salsa adds a bright and refreshing contrast to your authentic tostones recipe.
Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy!
Arrange your tostones on a serving plate and top with a spoonful of tropical salsa.
Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.
Perfect as an appetizer, side, or snack!
Why We Add Sea Moss Gel
Sea moss gel is our secret to extra nutrients and minerals — without changing the taste or texture.
It boosts your fried green plantains with natural benefits.
Grab premium sea moss gel from our Carib Sunsations Online Store.
🎥 Watch the Full Video Tutorial
Prefer visual learning? Watch our Authentic Tostones Recipe video on YouTube for step-by-step visuals.
Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more Caribbean-inspired vegan dishes!
🏝️ Final Thoughts
Making authentic tostones at home is easier than you think.
The combination of crispy fried plantains and tropical salsa creates a Caribbean flavor explosion you’ll crave again and again.
Try this authentic tostones recipe for your next family meal — and tag us when you share your results!
Happy cooking! 🌞
🔗 Related Recipes
Looking for more Caribbean plant-based recipes?
👉 Try our Delicious Lentil & Walnut Loaf Recipe — a hearty vegan main course that pairs perfectly with your tostones.
