A massive sandwich using flattened fried green plantain rounds as bread, stuffed with shredded beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sauces — Maracaibo's ultimate street food.
Ingredients
4 large green plantains
500g shredded beef (carne mechada)
200g shredded white cheese
Lettuce, shredded
2 tomatoes, sliced
Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Mustard
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt
Instructions
1Peel plantains, cut in half lengthwise. Fry in oil at 160°C for 5 min until softened.
2Remove and press flat into large rounds using a tostonera or heavy flat surface.
3Fry again at 180°C for 3-4 min until crispy and golden.
4Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with salt.
5Use two plantain rounds as bread. Layer shredded beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sauces inside.
6Press together gently and serve immediately.
Did You Know?
Maracuchos (people from Maracaibo) claim the patacon was invented in Zulia and argue that other regions' versions are mere imitations.