Air Fryer Frozen Tostones: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Tostones are a traditional Latin American snack or side dish made from unripe green plantains. They are usually twice-fried, but can also be cooked in an air fryer. This method is healthier, quicker, and less messy, as it requires little to no oil. Frozen tostones can be cooked directly in the air fryer and do not need to be thawed first. They can be cooked at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 15 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness.

How to make frozen tostones in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Frozen tostones (green plantain slices that have been partially cooked and flattened)
• Cooking spray or oil
• Salt (optional)

Instructions

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Take the frozen tostones out of the freezer and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. There is no need to thaw them beforehand.
• (Optional) Lightly spray the tostones with cooking spray or brush them with a small amount of oil for extra crispiness.
• Place the basket with the tostones into the preheated air fryer.
• Air fry the tostones at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The cooking time may vary based on the size and thickness of the tostones and the air fryer model, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• When they are done, the tostones should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
• (Optional) Sprinkle salt over the tostones while they are still warm to enhance their flavor.
• Once the tostones are cooked to your desired crispiness, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before serving.

Tips

• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even and consistent cooking.
• Use cooking spray or oil for extra crispiness.
• Don't overcrowd the basket. Arrange the frozen tostones in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching or overlapping, to allow for proper air circulation.
• Flip the tostones halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
• Adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the size and thickness of the tostones, and the air fryer model.
• Check for doneness: the tostones should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when done.
• Season to taste: sprinkle the tostones with salt or your favorite seasoning while they are still warm to enhance their flavor.
• Serve immediately: tostones are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
• Pair with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, cilantro lime sauce, or spicy mayo to add extra flavor.
• Experiment with different seasonings and spice blends such as Cajun seasoning, chili powder, or paprika for a unique twist.

What to serve with frozen tostones

Tostones, also known as patacones in some Latin American countries, are a comforting snack food. They are often served as an appetiser or side dish. Here are some ideas for what to serve with frozen tostones:

Guacamole

The creamy texture of guacamole, made from ripe avocados, zesty lime juice, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, perfectly complements the crispiness of the tostones.

Salsa Fresca

For a fresh and tangy burst, serve tostones with Salsa Fresca. This salsa is made with diced ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of salt.

Black Bean Dip

A black bean dip is a great way to add depth of flavour and heartiness to the dish. The creamy and velvety texture of the dip provides a pleasant contrast to the crispiness of the tostones.

Cilantro-Lime Crema

For a touch of indulgence, serve tostones with a creamy and tangy sauce made from sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt.

Picadillo

If you're looking for a more substantial pairing, try picadillo, a traditional Latin American dish. It features seasoned ground meat cooked with onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, raisins, and olives. The sweet and savoury flavours blend beautifully with the crispy tostones.

Ceviche

For an elegant and refreshing combination, serve tostones with ceviche, a dish of raw fish or seafood cured in citrus juices and spiced with chilli peppers, onions, and cilantro. The tangy ceviche pairs remarkably well with the crunchy tostones.

Mojo Sauce

Mojo sauce is a classic Latin American condiment made with sour oranges, or a combination of orange and lime juices, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. It provides a zesty and citrusy kick to the tostones, complementing their crispiness.

Mayoketchu

A dipping sauce made of mayonnaise and ketchup, known as "mayoketchu," is a popular condiment to serve with tostones.

How to store and reheat frozen tostones

Tostones are a tasty snack, but what happens when you have leftovers? Here's how to store and reheat them to perfection.

Storing Tostones

Leftover tostones can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 24 hours, although some sources say they can last for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. First, let the tostones cool completely, then seal them in a freezer bag or vacuum-sealed bag and place them in the freezer. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to two months.

Reheating Tostones

There are several ways to reheat tostones, and the method you choose will depend on your personal preference and the equipment you have available. Here are some of the most common methods:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tostones on a baking sheet. Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping them over halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Place the tostones in the pan and cook for 1 minute on each side, flipping carefully, until they are crispy again.
• Microwave: Place the tostones on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for about 3 minutes. Alternatively, use a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe container cover and heat on high power for 20-second intervals until the desired crispness is achieved.
• Air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the tostones in the basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they reach the desired level of crispness.
• Toaster oven: Lightly butter both sides of the tostones and place them on the toaster oven rack, buttered-side down. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

The health benefits of air-fried tostones

Tostones are a popular side dish in many Caribbean and South American countries. They are made from green (unripe) plantains, which are a type of banana that must be cooked due to their high starch content. While tostones are traditionally fried in oil, air-frying them is a healthier alternative that still yields a crispy texture.

Improved Digestive Health

The resistant starch in plantains acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon. Plantains are also a good source of fiber, which improves bowel function and supports digestive health.

Blood Sugar Control

Foods that digest slowly, such as plantains, have a low glycemic index (GI). Plantains have a GI in the 40s, making them a suitable food choice for people with diabetes as they help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Blood Pressure Control

Plantains are rich in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure. Consuming adequate potassium is important as high blood pressure is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks, strokes, and aneurysms.

Boosted Immune System

Plantains contain antioxidants, including vitamins C and A, which help reduce free radical damage and oxidative stress. They are also a good source of vitamin B6 and magnesium, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Reduced Calorie and Fat Intake

Air-frying tostones instead of pan-frying them significantly reduces the amount of oil absorbed, resulting in a lower calorie and fat count per serving. This makes air-fried tostones a healthier option compared to their traditionally fried counterparts.

In conclusion, air-fried tostones offer a range of health benefits due to the nutritional content of plantains. By choosing to air-fry instead of pan-fry, you can enjoy this delicious Latin American snack while also reaping the benefits of improved digestive health, blood sugar control, and more.

How to make the perfect crispy tostones

Ingredients:

• 2-3 green (unripe) plantains
• 2-3 tbsp avocado, olive, or neutral oil
• Salt to taste
• Optional: your choice of dip

Instructions:

• Peel and slice the plantains: Start by cutting off the ends of the plantains with a sharp knife. Make a slit in the skin from end to end, being careful not to cut into the flesh. Cut the plantain into 1-inch chunks, then peel the skin off each chunk.
• Soak the plantain chunks (optional): Combine 4 cups of cold water with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt and soak the plantain chunks for about 20 minutes. This step helps prevent browning and drying during frying.
• Dry and par-fry the plantains: Remove the plantains from the water and pat them dry. Toss the plantain slices in a bowl with oil, ensuring each piece is coated. Transfer the plantains to the air fryer basket in a single layer and par-fry for 3-6 minutes per side, until tender.
• Flatten the plantains: Remove the plantains from the air fryer and place them between parchment paper or a brown paper bag. Smash each plantain with a tostonera or a flat-bottomed object like a mug or mason jar until it forms a 1/4-inch thick disc.
• Air fry the smashed plantains: Return the flattened plantains to the air fryer basket, brushing or spraying the tops with oil. Air fry for 3 minutes, then flip, add more oil, and air fry for another 3-5 minutes until crispy.
• Season and serve: Sprinkle the tostones with salt and serve immediately with your choice of dip.

Tips:

• For extra crispiness, spray the plantains with cooking spray or brush them with oil before air frying.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Arrange the plantains in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
• Flip the tostones halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Adjust the cooking time as needed. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• Experiment with different seasonings like Cajun seasoning, chili powder, or paprika.

Frequently asked questions