Patacones Ticos (Costa Rican Fried Plantains)

Jun 07, 2023June 7, 20230 1

Crispy and tasty Patacones Ticos (Costa Rican Fried Plantains)

by The Chefin Appetizer

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Ready In

20 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	2 green plantains
	1 cup vegetable oil
	1 pinch salt , to taste

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

272

Sugar

11g

Fat

15g

Patacones Ticos, a popular Costa Rican delicacy is a simple yet delicious appetizer that is popular because of its unique taste and texture. The appetizer is usually served with a range of different dips and sauces, which makes it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The dish is easy to make, and the fried plantains are crispy on the outside with a slightly sweet flavor and soft on the inside. It is a perfect snack for any time of the day and can be perfect to share. The dish originated from the Caribbean coastal region of Costa Rica but is now commonly found in restaurants and homes throughout the country.

Instructions

1.	Peel the green plantains and slice them into 1-2 inch thick rounds.
2.	Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
3.	Once the oil is hot, add the plantains to the oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden-brown color.
4.	Remove the fried plantains from the pan and place them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
5.	Use a tostonera or the bottom of a bowl to smash the plantains into flat disks.
6.	Return the smashed disks to the hot oil and fry for an additional minute or until crispy.
7.	Remove the plantains again and sprinkle with salt to enjoy!

PROS

Patacones Ticos are delicious appetizers that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside with a slightly sweet flavor.

They can be served on their own or as a perfect base to other toppings and salsas.

CONS

Although plantains themselves are high in potassium and vitamin C, the frying process of these Patacones Ticos makes them quite calorific and fatty.

Therefore it is advisable to keep portions in moderation if you are looking for a healthy diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Plantains are a rich source of fiber and potassium which are essential nutrients for the digestive and cardiovascular health. It is also rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin B6. However, it should be consumed in moderation if you are calorie conscious, and the frying process does make them quite unhealthy.