Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWalking through the vibrant streets of a Caribbean market, the inviting aroma of fried plantains fills the air, luring you in like a warm hug. I couldn’t resist trying the local specialty—Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones. These delectable bites have stolen my heart, offering a delightful crunch topped with a creamy black bean purée and ripe avocado. What I love about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight appetizers or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, effortlessly adaptable for both vegan and gluten-free diets. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply indulging in a tasty snack, these tostones deliver happiness in every bite. Ready to whip up a batch and transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise? Let’s dive in! Why are Tostones a Must-Try Snack? Unique Flavor Profile: The contrast of the crispy plantain and creamy black bean purée creates an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple and quick, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Diet-Friendly: Easily adaptable for both vegan and gluten-free diets, so everyone can enjoy these delicious bites. Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for serving at parties or as an appetizer, these tostones will quickly become a favorite among guests! Versatile Pairings: Enjoy them with fresh pico de gallo or zesty lime rice for a complete meal experience, just like you’d find with our Crispy Chilli Beef Rice or a tropical fruit salad. Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones Ingredients For the Tostones • Green Plantains – The foundation for crispy texture; choose firm, green plantains for best results. • Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; heat to 350°F (175°C) for that perfect crunch. • Salt – Sprinkled on hot tostones to elevate the flavors; don’t hold back! For the Black Bean Purée • Black Beans – The flavor base; canned beans work well—just remember to rinse! • Garlic – Fresh cloves, minced to add a savory punch to your bean purée. • Ground Cumin – A warm, earthy spice that rounds out the flavors; adjust to your palate. • Chili Powder – Provides a mild spice; feel free to adjust for your desired heat level. • Lime Juice – Adds brightness and acidity; fresh-squeezed is the way to go! For Toppings • Ripe Avocado – Creamy delight; diced for a fresh topping that contrasts beautifully. • Cotija Cheese – Crumbly cheese that adds richness; substitute with vegan cheese for dairy-free enjoyment. • Chopped Cilantro – Optional for a burst of freshness and color; add just before serving. Each ingredient plays a vital role in your Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones, ensuring every bite is a delicious adventure! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones Step 1: Prepare the Plantains Start by peeling two green plantains and cutting them into 1-inch thick discs using a sharp knife. Ensure the plantains are firm and green for the best frying results. Set them aside while you prepare to heat your frying oil. Step 2: Heat the Oil In a large skillet, pour in about 1 inch of vegetable oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of plantain in; it should sizzle and bubble immediately. This ensures your Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones will achieve that perfect crunch. Step 3: Fry the Plantain Slices Carefully add the plantain discs to the hot oil, frying them for about 2 minutes on each side until they are lightly golden. You might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once done, use a slotted spatula to drain them on paper towels, allowing excess oil to drip off. Step 4: Flatten the Plantains Using a glass or a tostonera, gently flatten each fried plantain slice to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. This step is crucial to achieve the desired crunchiness, so take your time to ensure each disc is evenly flattened before moving on to the next step. Step 5: Fry Again for Crispiness Return the flattened plantains back to the hot oil and fry them again for 2-3 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. Watch them closely to prevent burning, as they can quickly change color. Once crispy, drain once more on paper towels and season generously with salt while they’re still hot. Step 6: Make the Black Bean Purée In a blender, combine one can of rinsed black beans, two minced garlic cloves, a teaspoon of ground cumin, a dash of chili powder, and the juice of one lime. Blend until smooth and creamy, tasting to adjust the seasoning as needed. This savory purée is the perfect complement to your tostones. Step 7: Assemble the Tostones Spread a generous layer of the black bean purée over each crispy tostone. Then, top them off with diced ripe avocado and sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese for a rich flavor. If desired, garnish with chopped cilantro to add a fresh touch, making your Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones even more delightful. Step 8: Serve Immediately Serve your Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones warm for the best experience. The contrast of the crispy texture with the smooth bean purée and creamy avocado will surely impress. Enjoy this vibrant snack with friends and family, perfect for gatherings or a quick treat at home! What to Serve with Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones Complete your culinary journey with these delightful tostones and their flavorful companions! Fresh Pico de Gallo: Bright and zesty, this salsa adds a refreshing burst that complements the creamy bean purée beautifully. Zesty Lime Rice: Light and tangy, this rice dish provides a perfect side, echoing the lime in your tostones and balancing the flavors. Tropical Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of sweet and juicy fruits like mango and pineapple brings a refreshing contrast to the crispy tostones. Jalapeño Poppers: For those who crave a little spice, these cheesy, stuffed jalapeños offer a delicious kick that pairs well with the mild flavors of the tostones. Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds another layer of avocado goodness while enhancing the tropical theme of your meal. Chilled Coconut Water: Refreshing and hydrating, coconut water is the ideal drink to balance the savory bites, providing a taste of the Caribbean. Margaritas: For a festive touch, whip up some classic margaritas; their tartness perfectly complements each bite of the crispy plantain and black bean tostones. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert that echoes the avocado richness and is fitting for vegan diets. These tasty options will elevate your Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones into a truly memorable feast! Expert Tips for Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C) to ensure your tostones are crispy, not soggy. A candy or frying thermometer can help you check this easily. Flatten Evenly: When flattening the plantains, strive for uniform thickness—about 1/4 inch—to guarantee they cook evenly and achieve that desired crunch. Divide the Frying: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to less crispy Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones. Keep Toppings Separate: Store any toppings separately from the fried tostones if making ahead. This preserves their crispiness for when you are ready to serve! Customize the Spice: Adjust the chili powder in the black bean purée to suit your heat preference; a little or a lot can change the flavor profile entirely! Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like pico de gallo or jalapeños. This allows you to make your tostones uniquely yours while enjoying the rich base flavor! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones are ideal for meal prep! You can fry the plantains and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days, maintaining their crunch if kept separate from the toppings. The black bean purée can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just cover it tightly to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the tostones in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until crispy again, then spread the creamy purée, top with avocado, and enjoy these delicious bites just as fresh as when you first made them. Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones Let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful tostones with different flavors and textures! Dairy-Free: Use a vegan cheese substitute in place of cotija to keep it creamy and delicious without the dairy. Gluten-Free: Rest assured; this recipe is already gluten-free! Perfect for guests who are avoiding gluten. Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the bean purée for an extra kick that brings the heat! Creamier Purée: Swap black beans for refried beans, creating an even smoother texture that’s perfect for spreadability. Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil into the bean mixture to bring in a fresh and vibrant twist. Mixed Cheese Topping: Try different crumbled cheese options like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile that complements the beans beautifully. Baked Plantains: For a healthier version, bake your plantains instead of frying. Simply brush them with oil and bake until golden and crispy! Tropical Flavor: Add diced mango or pineapple as a topping for a refreshing sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory tastes. These simple variations not only keep your tostones exciting but also allow you to cater to everyone’s tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or hosting friends, the Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones are sure to be a hit! Try pairing them with some Zesty Lime Rice or a side of Cheesy Ranch Sausage for a feast that transcends the ordinary. Storage Tips for Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones Room Temperature: Store your fried tostones in a single layer on paper towels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their crunch. Fridge: Keep the black bean purée sealed in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Freezer: Freeze any leftover tostones in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in an oven for best results! Reheating: For crispy tostones, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again; enjoy your delightful Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones! Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones Recipe FAQs What type of plantains should I use for the best results? Absolutely, you want to use firm, green plantains. This is key, as ripe or yellow plantains will turn mushy and won’t give you that delightful crunch you’re after. Look for plantains that are solid and bright green for optimal texture when frying. How can I store the Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones? I recommend keeping your fried tostones stored separately from the toppings. Place them in a single layer on paper towels inside an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 days this way. If you’re preparing ahead, store the black bean purée in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Can I freeze the tostones after cooking? Yes, you can! To freeze any leftover tostones, start by laying them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until completely frozen. This prevents them from sticking together. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag where they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven for crispy results! What should I do if my tostones don’t turn out crispy? Very! The perfect crunch comes down to a few factors. Make sure your oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying—this helps achieve that golden exterior. If the oil is too cool, the plantains can absorb more fat and become soggy. Also, be sure to flatten the fried plantains evenly, about 1/4 inch thick, before the second fry! Are these tostones suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Yes, indeed! These Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones are naturally vegan and gluten-free. For those with allergies, you can easily swap Cotija cheese for a dairy-free alternative or skip it altogether. Always check labels if using canned products or cheese, ensuring they meet your dietary needs. How can I achieve the best flavor in the black bean purée? To elevate the flavors in your black bean purée, I suggest blending the black beans with fresh minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, and taste it for adjustments. You can even add fresh herbs or hot sauce for an extra kick! Remember, the lime juice not only brightens the flavor but also balances the richness of the beans—absolutely essential! Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones: A Flavorful Delight Crispy Plantain and Black Bean Tostones are a delicious, quick, vegan and gluten-free appetizer that will impress anyone. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 tostonesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: CaribbeanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Tostones2 Green Plantains firm, green1 inch Vegetable Oil for fryingto taste Salt sprinkled on hot tostonesFor the Black Bean Purée1 can Black Beans rinsed2 cloves Garlic minced1 teaspoon Ground Cuminto taste Chili Powder adjust for heat level1 Lime Juice fresh-squeezedFor Toppings1 Ripe Avocado dicedto taste Cotija Cheese crumbled, or vegan cheeseto taste Chopped Cilantro optional Equipment Large Skilletslotted spatulaBlendertostonera Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPeel the green plantains and cut them into 1-inch thick discs.Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).Fry the plantain discs for about 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden.Flatten each fried plantain slice to approximately 1/4 inch thickness.Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until crispy.In a blender, combine the black beans, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.Spread the black bean purée over each crispy tostone, top with avocado and cotija cheese.Serve immediately for the best experience. Nutrition Serving: 2tostonesCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 6gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 150mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 6gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg NotesMaintain oil temperature for optimal crunch and customize toppings as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!