Look, I don’t know about you but plantains are basically a love language in my Cuban family (not to be mistaken with fluffy white rice which is in our DNA – ha!).
When I tell you these tostones rellenos were a hit in my house, let’s just say there wasn’t a single one left!
Tostones Rellenos are fried plantain cups, similar to my perfectly crispy tostones, that are filled with delicious savory fillings.
They’re crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and well, the filling possibilities are endless. Let me show you!
Best Plantains To Buy
Ok first things first, don’t buy the wrong plantains. Yes, it’s that important. You have to buy green plantains for tostones rellenos!
If you choose plantains that are soft with yellowish or dark skin, these plantain cups will not work.
Green plantains provide a starchy texture that crisps up when fried. So, when you’re choosing plantains for these cups, look for ones that are firm and have a bright green color!
Recommended For This Recipe
Wooden Tostonera
Easy to use and easy to clean. Perfect for pressing fried plantains and molding them into cups for savory fillings.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Air Fryer Method
Yes, frying plantain cups on the stove will always be the best method for making plantain cups.
However, if you’re like me and you’re scared of hot oil splattering on your face, you can make them in the air fryer. I’m sure Abuela wouldn’t approve but it’ll be our little secret.
Start by air frying the slices for 8-10 minutes at 400ºF. Once they have cooked, you can mold them into cups using a lemon squeezer or wooden block.
Place them back again in the air fryer for 8-12 minutes at 400ºF or until golden brown and crispy. Just keep in mind that temperature, times, and even texture may vary depending on your air fryer.
Filling Options
The best part of these plantain cups is that they’re super versatile.
You can make them extra Cuban by filling them with vaca frita or ropa vieja, or keep it simple by filling them with shredded rotisserie chicken (why not!) or shrimp.
The point is you can choose your own adventure here!
Here are my favorite options:
Storage Tips
While these stuffed plantain cups can be stored, they are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, any leftovers can be placed in a fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
To freeze, arrange cooled plantain cups in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen solid.
Tostones Rellenos (Cuban Stuffed Plantain Cups)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 large unripe green plantains
- Oil for frying (high smoke point)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Peel and cut the plantains into 2-inch pieces. You should have 3-4 pieces per plantain.
- In a large pot, pour enough oil to cover the plantains. Heat oil over medium-high heat to 400ºF. Fry the plantain pieces in the hot oil for about 5 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Using a lemon squeezer or a wooden block, press down on the plantain piece so it looks like a small cup. Remove carefully. Set aside.
- Fry the cups again in the hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Season with salt.
- Fill each toston cup with your favorite filling such as vaca frita, shredded chicken, picadillo, or shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
Marianela says
Your cooking is authentic, love it. Looking forward for more. Delicioso
Jamie Silva says
Thank you so much, Marianela!