Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering fusion of flavors in these Smashed Plantain Pulled Pork Sliders! This Cuban-inspired dish combines the crispy goodness of smashed plantains with succulent pulled pork slathered in rich barbecue sauce, all nestled between perfectly toasted slider buns. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or simply looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a delightful culinary experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 8 sliders
Ingredients
- 2 green plantains
- 2 cups pulled pork
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 8 slider buns
Instructions
- Prepare the plantains by peeling and cutting them diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices. Ensure plantains are still green and firm for optimal texture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place plantain slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they begin to turn golden brown.
- Remove plantains from skillet and place on a cutting board. Using the bottom of a flat glass or heavy spatula, gently smash each plantain slice to flatten to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Return smashed plantain slices to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side until crispy and golden. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
- In a separate pan, warm the pulled pork and mix thoroughly with barbecue sauce, ensuring the meat is heated evenly and well-coated.
- Lightly toast the slider buns to add crispness and enhance flavor.
- Assemble sliders by placing a smashed plantain slice on the bottom bun, then topping with a generous portion of pulled pork.
- Close the slider with the top bun and serve immediately while plantains are still crisp and pork is warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Plantains: For the best texture, select firm, green plantains. They should be slightly unripe, as this will give you the perfect balance of sweetness and starchiness when smashed and fried.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Make sure your olive oil is hot enough before adding the plantains. This will help achieve that golden-brown color and crispy texture. A good test is to drop a small piece of plantain in; it should sizzle immediately.
- Smash Carefully: When smashing the plantains, use a flat-bottomed glass or spatula to apply even pressure. This ensures that they flatten evenly without breaking apart.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with the salt! A sprinkle after frying enhances the plantains' natural flavor and complements the savory pulled pork.
- Warm the Pulled Pork Thoroughly: Ensure your pulled pork is heated evenly with the barbecue sauce, as this will infuse the flavors and make every bite delectable.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting the slider buns adds a delightful crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy when filled with the juicy pulled pork.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, assemble and serve the sliders right away while the plantains are still crispy and the pulled pork is warm. Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
