It started out as just another casual Sunday afternoon. A good friend of mine had never cooked with plantains before, and I figured it was the perfect excuse to hang out, share a bottle of wine, and make something fun together. I mentioned Tostones Rellenos—these crispy little plantain cups stuffed with all kinds of goodness—and her eyes lit up with curiosity. “Wait, you can shape plantains into cups?” she asked, already intrigued before we even turned on the stove.
As we stood side-by-side in my kitchen, I realized just how joyful it is to share a recipe that feels like second nature to you but brand new to someone else. I handed her the wooden tostonera (basically a plantain press) and watched her get the hang of it after a few mashed slices—laughing when one flew off the counter, pressing a little too enthusiastically. It reminded me of how cooking used to feel when I first started—not like a routine or a task, but a kind of playful, creative chaos.
We peeled the green plantains, fried them once, and then carefully flattened them into golden, slightly crispy little discs. The second fry gave them that perfect crunch, and when we nestled them into the muffin tin to form little cups, it felt like a small moment of magic. We filled them with creamy mashed avocado, lime, chopped shrimp sautéed in garlic and spices, and finished with fresh cilantro. Simple ingredients, but full of texture and flavor.
What struck me most wasn’t just how delicious the Tostones Rellenos turned out—it was how much we laughed, improvised, and learned together in the process. No pressure for perfection, just two people connecting over food, making something by hand, and enjoying every imperfect, beautiful moment of it.
Now every time I make these again, I think of that day—not because the recipe changed my life, but because the experience did. And that’s what cooking is really about, isn’t it? Not just feeding ourselves, but feeding our connections too.
There’s so much to adore about Tostones Rellenos! This recipe isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s an experience that brings joy to your kitchen:
Plantains:
The star of the show! Choose green, unripe plantains for the perfect balance of texture and taste. If plantains are unavailable, thick slices of green bananas could work in a pinch, but the flavor will differ.
Cooking Oil:
Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil for frying. If you want a more authentic taste, try using coconut oil or even lard.
Fillings:
Seasonings:
Lime juice, garlic, and cilantro bring freshness and zing. Don’t have fresh lime? Lemon juice is a good alternative.
Tostones Rellenos shine on their own, but pairing them with sides elevates the meal:
Tostones Rellenos bring the best of Latin American flavors to your table with their crispy, golden cups and customizable fillings. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a lively party. Easy to make, versatile, and full of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So grab some plantains, heat up the skillet, and let your creativity shine—your taste buds will thank you!
Tostones Rellenos are a delightful twist on traditional fried plantains, offering a fun and delicious way to enjoy this versatile ingredient. These crispy plantain cups serve as the perfect vessel for a variety of fillings, from savory shredded chicken to refreshing avocado salsa. Easy to customize and even easier to love, Tostones Rellenos are a hit whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
Start by cutting off the ends of the plantains. Make a shallow slit lengthwise along the skin, being careful not to cut into the flesh. Gently remove the peel. Slice the plantains into thick, even rounds, about 1.5 inches each.
Heat enough oil in a deep skillet to submerge the plantains, maintaining a temperature of around 350°F. Fry the slices for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and slightly golden but not crispy. Remove them and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
While the plantains are still warm and pliable, use a tostonera or the bottom of a small cup to press each slice into a cup shape. Be gentle to avoid breaking the edges. If you don’t have a tostonera, a small, round glass works well.
Return the shaped plantain cups to the hot oil and fry for another 3-5 minutes until they’re crispy and golden brown. Make sure to fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Once done, place them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
While the cups cool slightly, prepare your desired fillings. If using shredded chicken, season it with lime juice and salt. For shrimp, toss them in lime juice and a sprinkle of seasoning. For vegetarian options, mix diced avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro into a refreshing salsa.
Fill each plantain cup generously with your chosen filling. Top with a garnish like fresh cilantro, a drizzle of lime juice, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Tostones Rellenos are best served immediately while the plantains are still warm and crispy. Gather your loved ones and dig in!
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
My name is Talia, and I’m the heart and hands behind this blog. As a professional chef with years of experience in the kitchen, I created Velvety Recipes as a space to share my love for food, cooking, and the art of crafting delicious meals that are simple yet elegant.
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