Oct 03, 2025
- For the Tostones Baskets:
- 3–4 large green plantains, peeled and cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt, to taste
- For the Ground Beef Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/2 cup diced green bell peppers (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning (or your preferred seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced onions (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup diced green bell peppers (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons chopped celery (for garnish)
- Mr. Salsa Mayo-Ketchup Garlic Sauce, for drizzling (available at mrsalsastore.com)
- Deep fryer or large, deep skillet for frying
- Manual lemon or orange squeezer (for shaping tostones baskets)
- Paper towels, for draining oil
- Medium skillet, for cooking ground beef
- 1. Prepare the Tostones Baskets: Peel the green plantains and cut them into 1.5-inch chunks. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the plantain chunks in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden but not fully cooked. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- 2. Shape the Baskets: While the plantains are still warm, place one chunk at a time into a manual lemon or orange squeezer. Gently press to form a small basket shape. Be careful not to break the plantain.
- 3. Fry Again: Return the shaped plantain baskets to the hot oil and fry for an additional 2–3 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Remove, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle with salt. Set aside to cool slightly.
- 4. Cook the Ground Beef: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with adobo seasoning, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Add 1/2 cup diced onions and 1/2 cup diced green bell peppers, cooking until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- 5. Assemble the Tostones Baskets: Place a spoonful of cooked ground beef into each tostones basket. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado chunks, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Garnish with reserved diced onions, green bell peppers, and chopped celery. Finish with a generous drizzle of Mr. Salsa Mayo-Ketchup Garlic Sauce.
- 6. Serve: Arrange the loaded tostones baskets on a platter and serve immediately with extra Mr. Salsa Mayo-Ketchup Garlic Sauce on the side. Pair with a cold Malta or piña colada for a true Puerto Rican experience.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 tostones baskets
