Toston with shredded meat or patacon with Ropa Vieja

 

This delicacy that includes flattened green plantains known as patacón or toston is a very typical Caribbean recipe.

Ingredients:

– 2 green Plantain

– 300g shredded meat (can be beef, chicken or pork)

– 1 onion

– 2 cloves of garlic

– 1 red pepper

– 1 green pepper

– 1 carrot

– 1 can of peeled tomatoes (400g)

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Olive oil

– Fresh cilantro to decorate (optional)

 

Instructions:

 

1. Preparation of Shredded Meat:

– In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat.

– Add the chopped onion, the chopped garlic cloves and the peppers cut into strips. Sauté until golden and fragrant.

– Add the shredded meat and cook until golden.

– Add the grated carrot, chopped peeled tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper. Stir well and cook over medium-low heat for about 20-30 minutes, until the meat is tender and the sauce has reduced and thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

 

2. Preparation of Green Plantains:

– While the meat is cooking, peel the green plantains and cut them into thick slices.

– Heat enough oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

– Fry the green  plantains slices until golden brown on both sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the oil and place on absorbent paper to remove excess fat.

 

3. Presentation::

– Place a slice of fried plantain on a flat surface and press lightly with a board to flatten it.

– Add a portion of shredded meat on top of the crushed Plantains.

– Repeat the process with another slice of Plantains and more shredded meat, forming a tower.

– Decorate with fresh cilantro leaves if you wish.

 

And ready! Enjoy this delicious dish of green plantain with shredded meat. It is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that you will surely love.