PUERTO RICAN FRIED PLANTAINS RECIPE - (4.9/5)

Puerto Rican Fried Plantains Recipe - (4.9/5) image

Provided by GratefulSea

Number Of Ingredients 5

2 large green plantains
4 cups cold water
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to garnish
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup peanut oil

Steps:

Cut off both ends of the plantains. Using a paring knife, make one long slit through the skin, from head to tail. Carefully peel the skin away from the fruit. It should separate fairly easily; use the knife to help pry it away if necessary. Fill a medium size bowl with cups of water, then stir in the garlic and salt. Cut the plantains crosswise into 1-inch slices. Place the rounds in a bowl with the water to soak for at least 30 minutes. Drain well on paper towels In a medium-size skillet or dutch oven, heat 1 cup of oil to 325º. Fry the plantains in the oil for about 2-1/2 minutes on each side, until they begin to become golden, and are fork-tender. Do not let them brown. Fry them in batches, if necessary--do not overcrowd the pan. Drain them on paper towels and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes. Then place them between two sheets of waxed paper. Gently press each piece into a 2-inch round, by hand, or using a mallet or rolling pin. They should end up being about 1/3-inch thick. Reheat the oil to 375º, then fry the plantain slices a second time, letting them become a rich brown, crispy on the outside while still soft on the inside, about 3 minutes. Drain them once again on paper towels, then sprinkle with kosher salt. Serve warm for a very special treat.