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Bolón de verde
Fry the pork belly cubes in a dry pan over medium heat until rendered and crisp, 20 minutes. Lift out and chop small. In a spoon of the pork fat soften the onion, garlic and achiote for 3 minutes.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Bolón de verde take?
1 hr all in — 20 min prep, 40 min cook. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 8 pieces. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Easy.
How spicy is it?
No chilli.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Milk. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Gluten-free, Nut-free.
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What does it cost to cook?
Cheap night — about Under $8 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Frying pan, Mortar and pestle, Spider or strainer.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at 1½ tsp.
What can I use instead?
Pork → Nothing; bolón de queso. The cheese-only bolón is a standard order and the vegetarian one.
What should I watch for?
Work while it is hot. Cold plantain will not come together.
Any tips from this recipe?
Peel green plantain by scoring the skin lengthways with a knife and prising it off; it will not peel like a banana. Shaped bolones keep in the fridge overnight. Fry them straight from cold and add a minute.
Can I prepare this ahead?
Shaped bolones keep in the fridge overnight. Fry them straight from cold and add a minute. Reheat the oil to 180°C and fry the bolones 3-4 minutes until the outside is deep golden and crunchy. Drain and serve hot, with a fried egg and coffee.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.