Delicious Tostones Rellenos with a Tasty Plantain Cup

Experience the mouthwatering flavors of Tostones Rellenos, a dish that combines the crispy goodness of plantain cups with a savory filling. This recipe takes ripe plantains, smashes them, fries them until golden, and then forms them into adorable cups that are ready to be filled with a delicious mixture of meat, cheese, and spices. The result is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with an unforgettable appetizer or main course.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe plantains
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 tomato, diced

Directions

1. Peel the plantains and cut them into 1-inch thick slices.
2. In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Fry the plantain slices in the hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the fried plantains from the oil and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels.
5. Using a tostonera (plantain press) or the bottom of a heavy glass, flatten each plantain slice to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
6. Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry them again until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2 minutes per side.
7. Remove the tostones from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Set aside.
8. In a separate pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
9. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pan with the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
10. Remove the beef mixture from the heat and set it aside.
11. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and lime juice until well combined.
12. To assemble the tostones rellenos, place a spoonful of the beef mixture into each plantain cup.
13. Top the beef-filled cups with shredded mozzarella cheese, diced avocado, diced tomato, and a drizzle of the lime mayonnaise.
14. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
15. Serve the tostones rellenos immediately and enjoy!

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