Tostones con Frijoles Molidos
NicaraguanBreakfast

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Tostones con Frijoles Molidos is a cherished Nicaraguan breakfast dish that showcases the country's love for simple yet deeply satisfying flavors. This recipe features green plantains that are sliced, fried once until tender, flattened, and then fried again to achieve that signature golden crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. The tostones serve as the perfect base for creamy refried black beans seasoned with onions, garlic, and traditional spices. This dish represents the resourcefulness of Nicaraguan home cooking, where humble ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary. Often served at roadside comedores and family breakfast tables throughout Nicaragua, tostones con frijoles molidos can be enjoyed any time of day but holds a special place in the morning routine. The combination of starchy plantains with protein-rich beans creates a filling and nutritious meal that has sustained generations of Nicaraguans.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Peel the green plantains by cutting off the ends and making lengthwise slits through the peel, then remove the skin completely. Cut plantains into 1-inch thick rounds.

  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add plantain slices in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes per side until they begin to turn golden and are tender enough to flatten.

  3. Remove plantain slices and place on paper towels to drain briefly. Using a tostonera or the bottom of a glass, flatten each piece to about 1/4-inch thickness.

  4. Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry for an additional 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then sprinkle immediately with salt.

  5. While plantains are cooling, heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  6. Add the black beans with some of their cooking liquid to the pan. Mash the beans with a potato masher or fork while cooking, adding bean liquid as needed to reach desired consistency. Season with cumin, salt, and black pepper.

  7. Continue cooking the beans, stirring frequently, until they reach a thick, creamy consistency, about 8-10 minutes.

  8. To serve, arrange tostones on plates and top generously with the refried beans. Garnish with diced tomatoes, crumbled cheese, and fresh cilantro.

  9. Serve immediately while tostones are still crispy, with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Tostones con Frijoles Molidos

4.4 (111)

Crispy twice-fried green plantain slices topped with savory refried black beans and fresh toppings - a beloved Nicaraguan breakfast that brings together the perfect combination of textures and authentic Central American flavors.

medium
40 min
4 servings

Ingredients

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Main Components

  • 4 pieces plantain, green and unripe
  • 1 cups vegetable-oil, for frying

Bean Mixture

  • 2 cups black-beans, cooked
  • 1 pieces onions, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoons cumin, ground
  • 2 tablespoons olive-oil

Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, ground

Toppings

  • 2 pieces tomatoes, diced (optional)
  • 1/2 cups cheese-feta, crumbled (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 2 pieces lime, cut into wedges (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For the crispiest tostones, make sure the plantains are very green and firm - yellow or ripe plantains will not achieve the proper texture.
The oil temperature is crucial; if it's too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks, and if it's too cool, they'll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
You can prepare the refried beans a day ahead and reheat them, which actually improves their flavor.
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beans.
Some Nicaraguan families add a spoonful of crema or sour cream on top for extra richness.
If you don't have a tostonera (plantain press), the bottom of a small plate or sturdy glass works perfectly for flattening.
The beans should be thick enough to sit on top of the tostones without sliding off.
For added protein, top with a fried egg or serve alongside scrambled eggs.
This dish is also excellent as an appetizer or side dish for lunch or dinner.
Tostones con Frijoles Molidos | Cuisinao