Are you looking for a simple yet flavorful snack, appetizer, or side dish that brings a tropical twist to your kitchen? Let me introduce you to Tostones de Pana, a staple in Caribbean cuisine made from breadfruit (pana). With its mild, nutty flavor and crispy texture, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just exploring new recipes, this guide will show you how to make tostones de pana at home, complete with a zesty Mojito Caribeño dipping sauce to elevate the flavors.
Why Tostones de Pana?
Breadfruit (pana) is a versatile tropical fruit often found in Puerto Rican and Caribbean cooking. It’s naturally gluten-free, nutritious, and pairs well with bold seasonings. Unlike plantains, breadfruit offers a unique texture that crisps beautifully when fried, making it perfect for tostones.
Tostones de Pana
Ingredients
For Tostones de Pana
- 1 whole breadfruit (pana)
- Vegetable or canola oil for frying
- Sea salt or garlic salt
For Mojito Caribeño (Dipping Sauce)
- 2 large culantro leaves (or cilantro), finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tsp yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp green pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tsp vinegar
- Pinch of ground cumin and dried oregano
- 4 tbsp tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Tostones
- Peel the breadfruit: Start by cutting off both ends for stability. Hold it upright and use a sharp knife to peel downwards.
- Slice and core: Cut the breadfruit into quarters and remove the soft center. Slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Fry the breadfruit: Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the slices for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and let cool.
- Smash the tostones: Use a tostonera (or tortilla press) to flatten each fried slice.
- Fry again: Return the flattened tostones to the hot oil and fry for another 4–5 minutes until crispy.
- Season: Sprinkle with sea salt or garlic salt and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Making Mojito Caribeño
- In a mortar and pestle, mash garlic with salt.
- Add finely chopped culantro, onion, and green pepper. Mash until combined.
- Mix in cumin, oregano, vinegar, tomato sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir well to create a zesty sauce.
Making Mojito Caribeño
- In a mortar and pestle, mash garlic with salt.
- Add finely chopped culantro, onion, and green pepper. Mash until combined.
- Mix in cumin, oregano, vinegar, tomato sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir well to create a zesty sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your crispy tostones de pana warm, generously spread with Mojito Caribeño or paired with mayo-ketchup for a classic Puerto Rican twist. To add a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce.
Why Love This Recipe
- Quick and Versatile: Prep and cook in under 35 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Family-Friendly: Its mild flavor appeals to kids and adults alike.
- Nutritious and Affordable: Breadfruit is packed with fiber and nutrients while being budget-friendly.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a unique snack to impress guests, Tostones de Pana is a must-try dish. Pair it with the refreshing tang of Mojito Caribeño, and you’ll have a taste of the Caribbean right in your kitchen.
Try this recipe today and bring the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico into your home!
Ready to get started? Shop for a tostonera or mortar and pestle on Amazon to make your cooking experience seamless.