
Puerto Rican Plantain Dishes
Flavors of Puerto Rico

Traditional plantain dishes, such as mofongo, tostones, and pasteles, are the cornerstone of Puerto Rican cuisine. So deeply ingrained in the culture, they embody the very essence of the island’s culinary soul. Their versatility makes them the central ingredient in a wide variety of dishes, ranging from simple to sophisticated. Present at every meal—from breakfast to dinner—plantains are enjoyed in numerous forms: fried, boiled, mashed, roasted, or pureed.
Depending on their ripeness, they can be sweet or savory, reflecting the rich blend of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences that have shaped Puerto Rican gastronomy.
These traditional plantain-based dishes not only delight the taste buds but also tell stories of heritage, tradition, and a deep love for Puerto Rican cooking.
Beyond their exceptional flavor, plantains are an accessible, affordable, and nutritious ingredient, making them a foundational part of the Puerto Rican diet.
For centuries, plantains have been the heart of dishes that transcend mere food, symbolizing the island’s history, culture, and traditions. Each recipe with plantain carries a unique essence, passed down through generations, keeping Puerto Rico’s culinary identity vibrant while celebrating its rich diversity of flavors.
Mofongo
Mofongo is an iconic dish of Puerto Rico, known for its deep flavor and unique texture. It is made from fried and mashed green plantains, to which garlic, oil, and often meat (chicken, pork, or seafood) are added, making it a versatile and delicious recipe. Traditionally served with chicken or seafood broth, mofongo highlights the green plantain’s ability to transform into a dense and flavorful mix, reflecting the richness of Puerto Rican cuisine.

Mofongo
This dish has its roots in African influences, although over time, it has adopted local touches that have made it even more special. It is commonly found on both family tables and restaurant menus across the island, and it is a favorite among both tourists and locals. A modern version of mofongo is mofongo relleno, where the plantain is hollowed out and filled with meats or seafood, creating a flavor combination that delights everyone.
Tip: For an even tastier experience, pair it with a shrimp sauce or garlic vinaigrette, which will add a fresh touch and perfectly balance the intensity of the mofongo.
Tostones
Tostones are one of the most beloved dishes in Puerto Rican cuisine. Made from green plantains, the slices are fried, pressed, and fried again to achieve a crispy exterior and a soft interior. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect as a side for meats, seafood, or rice and beans, or simply as a snack during gatherings and celebrations.

Tostones
The key to achieving perfect tostones lies in proper frying. To enhance their flavor, try adding spices like pepper, cumin, or garlic powder immediately after taking them out of the hot oil. They are also delicious when served with garlic sauce or mayoketchup, a traditional combination that brings out the flavor of this classic Puerto Rican treat.
Tostones are more than just food—they are a true tradition, a symbol of criollo cooking that brings families and friends together. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, they always deliver a unique and authentic flavor that is simply irresistible.
Amarillos
Amarillos are one of the sweetest and most versatile gems of Puerto Rican cuisine, made from ripe plantains that, when fried, offer a crispy exterior and an irresistibly soft interior. Their natural sweetness makes them the perfect complement to savory dishes like rice and beans, roasted meats, or seafood. They’re also ideal as a snack or standalone dish, and their flavor pairs beautifully with a pinch of salt to enhance their sweetness. Depending on the occasion, they can be prepared as thick slices or mashed, catering to individual preferences.

Amarillos
To make them even more delicious, they can be served with grated cheese, such as fresh white cheese or mozzarella, adding a salty contrast that enhances the plantain’s softness. Another tasty option is drizzling them with honey or sprinkling them with powdered sugar, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Fried amarillos are not just a delightful side dish—they are a true treat that captures the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine in every bite.
Arañitas
Arañitas are small fritters made from shredded green plantains, mixed with garlic, onion, and seasonings, then fried until golden and crispy. These little balls or patties of green plantains are typically served as a snack or appetizer. During festivities and celebrations, arañitas always capture the attention of guests, as their crispy texture and delicious flavor make them irresistibly addictive.

Arañitas
The basic arañitas recipe can be customized with additional ingredients like fresh herbs, spicy peppers, or even grated cheese to create an even richer and more flavorful experience.
Tip: Serve arañitas with a garlic mayo sauce or a spicy dip to enhance their flavor and add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Pionono
Pionono is a delectable Puerto Rican dish that combines the sweet flavor of fried ripe plantains with seasoned ground beef. The plantain slices are fried and rolled with the meat, forming a roll that is then baked to golden perfection, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Pionono
This dish is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting meal. Some variations include raisins for a touch of sweetness or olives to add a deeper savory flavor.
Tip: Adding raisins or olives to the filling enhances the flavor, and sprinkling grated cheese between the layers adds an extra creamy touch.
Alcapurrias
Alcapurrias are a delicious traditional snack from Puerto Rican street food, made from a mixture of green plantains and yuca, typically filled with beef or pork. These fritters are known for their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. Alcapurrias are a popular choice for festivities, celebrations, and as snacks during beach outings in Puerto Rico. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion, as they can also include seafood like shrimp or fish, adding a fresh twist to this classic dish.

Alcapurrias
This dish is a true symbol of Puerto Rican cuisine, offering a contrasting texture and the rich flavor of its fillings, creating a unique culinary experience. Whether as part of a meal or as a snack, alcapurrias are always a crowd-pleaser.
Tip: For a special touch, serve them with garlic sauce, mayonnaise, or even hot sauce to enhance their flavor and make every bite even more satisfying.
Pasteles
Pasteles are a traditional and beloved dish in Puerto Rico, especially during holiday celebrations. This flavorful treat is made from a dough of green plantains and yucca, mixed with meat (typically pork or chicken), and wrapped in banana leaves before being cooked. The result is a dish rich in tradition, featuring a unique texture that blends the softness of the dough with the savory taste of the meat and seasonings.

Pasteles
The preparation of pasteles is a labor of love and patience, often turning into a family activity during the holidays. Perfect for sharing at gatherings and celebrations, pasteles embody the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine with their distinctive flavor.
Tip: Serve pasteles with a tomato-based sauce or a fresh salad to complement and balance their rich taste.
Pastelón
El pastelón es un plato emblemático de la gastronomía puertorriqueña, donde el plátano maduro frito sustituye la pasta de una lasaña tradicional. Las capas de plátano se combinan con una mezcla jugosa de carne molida (generalmente de res), cebolla, ajo, pimientos y aceitunas, creando una armonía de sabores que se fusionan durante el horneado. Este plato, lleno de tradición y sabor, es perfecto para celebraciones, reuniones familiares o cualquier ocasión especial. Se sirve frecuentemente acompañado de una ensalada fresca, que aporta un contraste ligero y refrescante.

Pastelón
Consejo: Para intensificar el sabor y añadir cremosidad, puedes intercalar queso rallado entre las capas antes de hornear. Si deseas darle un giro innovador, experimenta con diferentes rellenos como pollo, cerdo o incluso mariscos, como camarones o bacalao, para una versión más sofisticada.
El pastelón, con su combinación de lo dulce del plátano y lo sabroso de la carne, representa la fusión cultural de Puerto Rico, un reflejo perfecto de la cocina isleña, rica en historia y sabor.
Guanimes con Bacalao
Guanimes are a classic Puerto Rican dish made from a mix of green plantains and cornmeal, cooked to perfection in banana leaves. Paired with bacalao guisado—a savory stew of salted cod with tomato, onion, and spices—this combo is pure island comfort food. It’s especially loved during Lent and Holy Week, bringing families together around the table for a taste of tradition.

Guanimes con Bacalao
Making guanimes is a labor of love. Each one is carefully shaped, wrapped, and cooked, while the bacalao is slow-simmered to create a sauce that’s packed with flavor and soul. Together, they form a dish that’s as rich in culture as it is in taste.
Pro Tip: Add a Puerto Rican twist with a handful of olives or a drizzle of tomato sauce over the top. And for a little freshness, pair it with some sliced avocado.
Serenata de Bacalao con Guineítos
Serenata de bacalao con guineítos is a fresh and flavorful dish, cherished in Puerto Rican cuisine. This delightful recipe combines salty, savory bacalao (salted cod) with guineítos, tender green baby bananas cooked to perfection. The dish is rounded out with garlic, onions, peppers, and olives, creating a harmonious blend of fresh and vibrant flavors. Light and satisfying, it’s an ideal choice for warm days—a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

Serenata de Bacalao con Guineítos
The tender texture of the guineítos perfectly balances the bold saltiness of the bacalao, making for an irresistible combination. This simple yet storied recipe has been a staple on Puerto Rican tables for generations, reflecting the heart and soul of the island’s culinary traditions.
Pro Tip: Add a Puerto Rican twist with freshly chopped cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil. These touches elevate the flavors and give the dish a burst of freshness and sophistication.
Empanadas (Empanadillas) de Plátano
Plantain empanadas are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe plantains with the perfect crunch of a golden, fried exterior. These empanadas are filled with savory ingredients like beef, chicken, or cheese, and fried to a crisp texture that everyone loves. They’re an excellent choice for a quick lunch or a casual snack.

Empanadillas de Plátano
Beyond the traditional fillings, plantain empanadas offer endless possibilities to experiment with flavors. You can try seafood fillings like shrimp or salted cod, or even fresher options like guacamole. For a lighter alternative, they can also be baked without losing their deliciousness.
Pro Tip: Pair them with a spicy sauce, garlic mayo, or a yogurt and fresh herb dip to enhance their flavor. These additions not only complement the crispy texture but also elevate the taste of the empanadas to a whole new level.
The Plantain, the Soul of Puerto Rican Cuisine
The plantain, in all its forms and preparations, is a fundamental ingredient in Puerto Rican cooking. Its versatility, flavor, and texture make it the heart of traditional plantain dishes, such as the crispy tostones, the savory mashed mofongo, and the iconic pasteles. Each recipe offers a unique culinary experience that captures the rich history and culture of the island. More than just a food, the plantain is part of our identity—a symbol of the warmth, creativity, and spirit of Puerto Rican cuisine.