Plantains are plainly tasty. The sliced and deep-fried version of them is even better to munch on at exactly any time. The similar looks can be deceiving, but plantains are actually the savory cousin of sweet bananas and taste nothing like the ripened fruit. It’s full of potassium and good fiber too. Plantain chips or Tostones are a common phenomenon all around Panama and beyond. Shaved skinny like potato chips or sliced nicely thick for a crispy-chewy action, tostones never fail to make your day! So, set aside your regular chips and get your hands on plenty of plantains. Follow these simple quick steps, and snack on!

Ingredients (for 2-4 people)

• 2-3 green plantains • Sea salt • Cracked black pepper • Vegetable oil

Method

• First thing first, peel the plantains. It can be a little tricky. The best way is to cut the top and the bottom of a piece and then to make one or two scores lengthwise. Next, lift up the fruit from these lines, and the peel will come off easily.

• Cut the plantains at a sharp angle. You can cut the pieces thick or thin, as you like. But, the longer and leaner the sides, the crispier and tastier your chips are.

• Just like the French fries, soaking the plantain pieces in cold water for about 15 minutes will give you the extra benefit of removing the excess starch, making your chips crisp up better. This is not a necessary step though.

• If you soak the pieces, then after 15 min drains them and dry them well. Put a deep pan on the stove and heat vegetable oil in enough amount for deep frying. Fry the plantain slices at 375F temperature until golden brown. Then take them out draining well from the oil.

• Add a hefty sprinkle of sea salt. A tad touch of cracked black pepper won’t hurt either.

• Start munching right away! What are you waiting for!

The Algarve in Portugal is becoming one of the hottest tourist destinations in Europe – and for good reason, too! From the soft, sandy beaches to the delicious food, it’s no wonder more people are flocking here every year. Here are four of the must-see attractions if you’re planning a visit.

Ponta da Piedade

Make your way south of Lagos and you’ll find the dramatic headland of Ponta da Piedade. You can hike your way over the stunning headlands before taking the steps down to the sandy beach, complete with clear blue waters. You can also jump on board a boat to explore all of the caves and cliffs, if you’re feeling adventurous!

Praia da Rocha

Hailed as one of the best beaches in Europe, nevermind just the Algarve, you simply have to visit Praia da Rocha during your stay. The sand almost looks like glass it’s so pristine and the waters are perfect for surfers and swimmers alike. To turn this into a whole day trip, head to the Fort of Santa Catarina which is a stunning 17th-century fort.

Lagos Old Town

If you’d rather keep away from the water, then head to the stunning, historic Lagos Old Town. The cobblestone streets are like a piece of artwork themselves, but you’ll also find plenty of history and culture in the town’s museum. There are plenty of things to see in Lagos Old Town, including the Baroque Church of Santo António and the historic (if haunting) 15th-century slave market.

Dining in the Algarve

There really is something quite special about the food in this part of Portugal, which is renowned for delicious seafood. Unsurprising considering its position on the Atlantic ocean! Popular eateries offering local food include Restaurante Cidade Velha in Faro and Le Cro Portugal in Carvoeiro.

With so much to see, do, and eat in the Algarve, it was hard picking just four must-sees!