Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSabor de CubaTostones Rellenos Recipe

Tostones Rellenos Recipe

Inspired by Sabor de Cuba
Time45m
Serves4

Savory green plantains stuffed with (ground beef 12 or shrimp 14)

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Ingredients

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For the Tostones

Method

Preparing the Tostones

  1. 1

    Peel and Slice Plantains

    Peel the green plantains by cutting off both ends and making a slit along the length of the skin. Remove the skin and slice the plantains into 1-inch thick pieces.

  2. 2

    Fry the Plantains

    Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the sliced plantains and fry until they are lightly golden and tender, about 4-5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Flatten the Plantains

    Remove the plantains from the oil and place them on a cutting board. Using the bottom of a flat cup or a tostonera, flatten each piece to about 1/2 inch thick.

  4. 4

    Double Fry

    Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry again until they are crispy and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt.

Making the Filling

  1. 5

    Cook the Filling

    In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper until they are soft, about 5 minutes.

  2. 6

    Add Protein and Season

    Add the ground beef (or shrimp) to the skillet, cooking until browned. Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Simmer for about 10 minutes until well combined. Mix in the chopped cilantro.

  3. 7

    Add Cheese (if using)

    If you are using cheese, stir it in at this stage until melted and fully incorporated.

Assembling the Tostones Rellenos

  1. 8

    Stuff the Tostones

    Take each fried tostone and carefully spoon the beef or shrimp filling into the center, ensuring it is well packed.

  2. 9

    Serve

    Arrange the stuffed tostones on a platter and serve warm, optionally garnished with additional cilantro or lime wedges.

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