Emeril's Recipe: Tostones with Seasoned Lime Salt (Twice-Fried Green Plantains)

YIELD Makes 20 - 24, or 4 - 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

large green or slightly yellow plantains
Vegetable oil for frying
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon packed finely grated lime zest
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

PREPARATION:

  1. In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat the oil over moderate heat to 350ºF.
  2. With a sharp knife, cut the ends from each plantain and score the skins lengthwise several times to peel away the skin. Cut the plantains into 1 1/2- inch thick slices. In batches, fry the plantain pieces until just golden, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer with tongs to paper towels to drain.
  3. Place a plantain slice on a flat work surface, and press down on it firmly with the back of a heavy plate or skillet until flattened to about 1/4-inch thick. Repeat with the remaining slices.
  4. Reheat the oil and fry the tostones to a deeper color and warmed through, about 1 minute. Drain on paper towels briefly before serving. While the tostones are draining, combine the salt, lime zest and cumin in a small bowl and stir to blend. Season the tostones with the seasoned lime salt and serve immediately.

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This recipe appears in: Vegetarian