- Course: Snack
- Skill Level: Moderate
- Cost: Inexpensive
- Favorited: 4 Times
Recipe
Mariquitas
Stop by most any Cuban takeout window or loncheria and you’ll see people buying brown paper cones filled with mariquitas, also called chicharritas. These wafer-thin slices of green plantain are deep-fried until crisp and golden, then sprinkled with salt. Whether sliced crosswise like potato chips or lengthwise, they are delicious either eaten as is or sprinkled with tart, garlicky mojo.
Ingredients
- 2 large green plantains
- Vegetable oil for deep-frying
- Salt to taste, preferably kosher or sea salt
- Mojo Criollo (Cuban Garlic Sauce)
Directions
Peel the plantains: Cut off both ends, then cut slits through the skin, being careful not to cut the flesh. Peel off the skin. Using a mandolin set on the “thin” setting, slice the plantains lengthwise. If not frying immediately, place the slices in cold acidulated water. When ready to fry, pat the slices dry thoroughly with paper towels.
In a deep-fryer or a large, deep skillet, heat at least 2 inches of oil to 375°F. Working in batches, carefully add the plantain slices to the oil. Fry, turning occasionally, until crisp and golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Drain on crumpled paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Serve immediately, with Mojo Criollo if desired.
© 2006 Beverly Cox
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves 6. Nutritional information includes 1/8 teaspoon of added salt per serving, but does not include Mojo Criollo. For nutritional information on Mojo Criollo, please follow the link above.






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