Tasty Tostones: Air Fryer Style

Tostones, also known as patacones, are a popular side dish in many Caribbean and South American countries. They are made from green (unripe) plantains, which are a variety of banana that must be cooked due to their high starch content. The traditional method of cooking tostones involves deep-frying the plantains in oil, but they can also be made in an air fryer, which is a healthier alternative as it uses less oil. Air-fried tostones are just as crispy and delicious as their deep-fried counterparts, and they are also easier to make since there is no oil splattering to worry about.

How to pick a plantain

When choosing a plantain, it is important to consider its ripeness, which can be gauged by its colour. Plantains are a variety of banana that are larger and have thicker skin. They are starchy and must be cooked before eating.

Unripe plantains are green, and as they ripen, they turn yellow, then their skin becomes dull yellow with black patches, and eventually, they are mostly black. The greener the plantain, the more suitable it is for tostones, as the yellowing fruit will taste sweeter. A ripe plantain is easier to peel and cooks faster, making it ideal for frying.

When shopping for plantains, it is important to note that they are rarely found fully ripe in average grocery stores. Therefore, it is recommended to buy them a few days before you plan to cook and store them in a paper bag to accelerate the ripening process.

How to flatten tostones

Tostones are a popular snack in Latin America and the Caribbean, made from green (unripe) plantains. They are twice-fried, with a smash in between frying, and are often served with a dip.

To flatten tostones, you will need a tostonera, or a flat-bottomed object such as a jar, mug, or plate. You will also need something to place between the plantain and the flattening object, such as parchment paper, wax paper, or a brown paper bag.

First, peel the plantain and cut off both ends. Then, cut the plantain into slices, around 1 inch thick. Fry these slices in oil until they are soft and golden. Next, place the fried plantain slice onto a flat surface, and cover with parchment paper (or similar). Gently smash the plantain with your chosen tool until it is a flat disc, around 1/4 inch thick.

If you are making a large batch, you can soak the flattened plantains in salted water while you continue frying the rest. This will prevent them from browning and will add extra flavour.

What to serve with them

Tostones are a versatile side dish and can be served with a variety of dips, toppings, and mains.

The most popular condiment to serve with tostones is a dipping sauce made of mayonnaise and ketchup, known colloquially as "mayoketchu". Some people also enjoy a warmed garlic oil known as ajillo, made by combining minced garlic, salt, and olive oil.

Tostones can also be served with toppings such as meats, cheese, or salsa. They can be paired with popular Cuban dishes like paella or picadillo, or filled with shrimp ceviche, Cuban picadillo, or ropa vieja.

As a side dish, tostones can be served with rice and beans, or alongside meat dishes like beef, pork, or prawns. Some specific suggestions include Puerto Rican chicken and rice, Brazilian black beans, and roasted broccoli and tomatoes.

Tostones can also be served as part of a larger meal with dishes such as arroz con gandules, arroz blanco puertorriqueño, pernil (Puerto Rican roasted pork), or empanadas.

Storing and freezing tostones

Tostones are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or refry in the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes at the same temperature.

However, it's worth noting that the quality and crispness will be significantly diminished, so it's recommended to only make what you plan to eat the same day.

If you want to have tostones on hand for last-minute cravings, you can prepare them in advance and freeze them. First, flatten the fried plantains and allow them to cool completely. Then, seal them in a freezer bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them completely before frying for the final time in the air fryer.

Dipping sauces

Tostones, also known as patacones in some Latin American countries, are a beloved treat in Puerto Rico and the rest of the Caribbean. They are made from green (unripe) plantains and are usually twice-fried, but can also be cooked in an air fryer.

Tostones are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, here are some options:

Mayoketchu

A dipping sauce made of mayonnaise and ketchup, known colloquially as "mayoketchu", is the most popular condiment to serve with tostones. You can adjust the mayonnaise-to-ketchup ratio to your liking and add more or less garlic.

Ajillo

Some people also enjoy a warmed garlic oil known as ajillo with their tostones. It’s made by combining two cloves of minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a quarter cup of warmed olive oil. Garlic oil isn’t used as often because the flavor can be quite strong.

Garlic Dipping Sauce

Another option for a garlic dipping sauce is to combine olive oil, thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, lime juice, and garlic. Whisk vigorously and enjoy with hot tostones.

Guacamole

Guacamole is also a popular choice to pair with tostones. You can add ingredients such as green onions, cilantro, and small red chilies to your guacamole for extra flavor.

Salt and Avocado

Some people prefer their tostones plain, with just a sprinkle of salt and some mashed avocado on the side.

Other Dips

There are also many other dips that can be paired with tostones, such as hot spinach, artichoke, and chile dip, or honey-mustard dipping sauce.

Frequently asked questions