Plantain Fritters (Aranitas)

Name: Plantain Fritters (Aranitas)
Prep time: P0Y0M0DT0H20M0.000S
Cook time: P0Y0M0DT0H20M0.000S
Total time: P0Y0M0DT0H40M0.000S
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: Vegetable oil, for frying; 4 garlic cloves; Pinch kosher salt, plus more for seasoning; 3 green plantains, peeled and grated on the large holes of a box grater; Freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro leaves

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Level: Intermediate
Total: 40 min

Prep: 20 min
Cook: 20 min

Yield: 4 servings

Level: Intermediate
Total: 40 min

Prep: 20 min
Cook: 20 min

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Vegetable oil, for frying

4 garlic cloves

Pinch kosher salt, plus more for seasoning

3 green plantains, peeled and grated on the large holes of a box grater

Freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro leaves

Directions

Heat 2-inches of oil to 350 degrees F in a heavy skillet or deep pot over medium-high heat. Line a plate with paper towels and set aside.
While the oil warms, place the garlic cloves on a cutting board. Slice the cloves in half lengthwise and then smash with the side of a chef's knife. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the garlic and chop and smear the garlic against the cutting board until it makes a paste.
Place the grated plantains, garlic paste, and pepper in a large bowl and mix until combined. Using 2 tablespoons scoop out some of the mixture and press it flat with the back of the other spoon. Gently slide it in the hot oil, adding enough balls to fill the pan without overcrowding it. Fry until golden, for 4 to 5 minutes on each side (if the fritters get dark too quickly, lower the temperature of the oil). Using a slotted spoon or frying spider, transfer the aranitas to the paper towel-lined plate to drain. Sprinkle with some more salt and the cilantro and serve warm.