How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I make this ahead?

The avocado salsa should be made fresh, but you can prepare the plantains a few hours in advance and refry them just before serving.

What can I use instead of queso fresco?

Feta cheese can be a good substitute for queso fresco.

Can I bake the tostones instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F until golden, but they won't be as crispy as fried.

Are there vegan options for queso fresco?

Yes, you can use crumbled tofu or a plant-based soft cheese instead.

Flavorful Venezuelan Tostones with Queso Fresco and Avocado Salsa

Name: Flavorful Venezuelan Tostones with Queso Fresco and Avocado Salsa
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: Green plantains; Salt; Vegetable oil; Queso fresco; Avocados; Red onion; Tomato; Lime; Salt and pepper; Fresh cilantro

Crispy plantain slices paired with fresh cheese and a zesty avocado topping

These traditional Venezuelan tostones are double-fried plantain slices that are irresistibly crispy. Paired with creamy queso fresco and a savory avocado salsa, they make for an enticing appetizer or snack.

45 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Tostones

Green plantains

3, peeled and cut into 1-inch thick slices

Salt

for seasoning

Vegetable oil

for deep frying

For the Queso Fresco

Queso fresco

200 grams, crumbled

For the Avocado Salsa

Avocados

2 ripe, diced

Red onion

1 small, finely chopped

Tomato

1 small, seeded and diced

Lime

1, juiced

Salt and pepper

to taste

Fresh cilantro

chopped, for garnish

Preparation

Preparing the Tostones

Slice the plantains

Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch thick pieces.

Heat the oil

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.

Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the plantains to avoid sogginess.

Fry the plantains briefly

Fry the plantain slices until golden, about 2 minutes on each side.

Preparing the Avocado Salsa

Combine ingredients

In a bowl, combine diced avocados, red onion, tomato, and lime juice.

Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix gently

Stir gently to mix the salsa without mashing the avocados.

Cooking Process

First Frying

Fry the plantain slices briefly to cook them through.

Timing: 5 minutes. Heat: Medium.

Smashing

Gently flatten the fried plantain slices for crispy edges.

Mash lightly with the flat side of a knife or a plantain press for even thickness before the second fry.

Second Frying

Fry again until crisp and golden brown.

Timing: 3 minutes. Heat: Medium-High.

Plating & Serving