Air-Fried Tostones: A Healthy, Crunchy Treat

Tostones, also known as patacones, are a staple in Latin American countries and the Caribbean. They are made with green (unripe) plantains and are usually twice-fried in oil. However, it is possible to make them in an air fryer, which is a healthier alternative as it uses less oil.

How to make tostones in an air fryer

Tostones, also known as patacones, are a staple in Latin American countries and the Caribbean. They are made from green (unripe) plantains and are usually fried in oil. However, you can also make them in an air fryer with much less oil for a healthier option. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make tostones in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Green plantains
• Oil (olive oil, avocado oil, or any other neutral-tasting oil)
• Salt
• Water
• Garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

• Start by trimming the ends of the plantains and cutting a slit along the length of the skin. Make sure you only cut through the skin and not into the plantain flesh.
• Cut the plantain into 1-inch pieces.
• Peel each piece of plantain. You can use a paring knife to help with the peeling. Putting a little oil on your fingers can also make it easier to peel.
• Place the plantain pieces in a bowl and toss them with oil. Make sure they are well coated.
• Preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F.
• Place the plantain pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them for proper air circulation.
• Air fry for 3-6 minutes on each side, until the plantain is tender.
• Remove the plantain pieces from the air fryer and place them between parchment paper or a brown paper bag.
• Smash the plantain pieces with a tostonera or a flat-bottomed object such as a mug or a jar until they are flattened to a 1/4-inch thick disc.
• Return the flattened plantain pieces to the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed.
• Spray or brush the tops of the plantains with oil.
• Air fry for 3 minutes, then flip them over, spray or brush with oil again, and air fry for another 3-5 minutes, until they are crispy and golden brown.
• Sprinkle with salt and serve immediately.

Tips:

• You can also make a garlic dipping sauce to serve with your tostones. Simply whisk together oil, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and red pepper.
• Tostones are best served fresh and hot, but you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-4 minutes until heated through and crispy.

The best type of plantain to use

When making tostones, it is important to use green plantains that are unripe. Yellow and black plantains are already ripened and much sweeter than their green counterparts. Green plantains are high in starch and low in sugar, making them more similar to potatoes than bananas in terms of taste and texture. They have a very mild banana taste with a more bold starchy potato flavour.

When selecting green plantains, look for those that are a verdant green colour and very firm. Avoid plantains with a lot of yellow on the peel, as they will taste sweeter. The plantains should also be fresh, as older plantains will dry out and break apart more easily when you try to smash them.

Before cooking, cut off both ends of the plantain and then cut down one of the seams of the skin along the length of the fruit. For very fresh plantains, carefully peel back the skin and run your finger along the seam to gently remove it. For less fresh plantains, you may need to make a few slices around the seams to remove the peel.

Dipping sauces to serve with air fryer tostones

Tostones are a beloved treat in Puerto Rico and the rest of the Caribbean, and they can be made easily in an air fryer. They are commonly served as an appetiser or side dish, and they go well with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some ideas for sauces to serve with your air fryer tostones:

Mayo-Ketchup Sauce

Also known as "mayoketchu", this is the most popular condiment to serve with tostones. It is a simple mixture of mayonnaise and ketchup, with some garlic powder added for extra flavour. You can adjust the ratios of mayonnaise and ketchup to your liking and add more or less garlic.

Garlic Dipping Sauce

For garlic lovers, this sauce is a perfect accompaniment to tostones. It is made by combining olive oil, thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, lime juice, and finely minced garlic. You can also add some fresh cilantro or parsley for extra flavour.

Guacamole

Avocado goes great with everything, and tostones are no exception! Guacamole is a perfect dip for tostones, providing a creamy and savoury contrast to the crispy plantains. You can also serve tostones with just mashed avocado for a simpler, but still delicious, dip.

Aioli

For something a little different, try serving your tostones with aioli. This creamy, garlicky sauce is an uncommon but delicious choice that will elevate your tostones to the next level.

Salsa

Tostones are a wonderful vessel for salsa, and there are many different types to choose from. Try a traditional tomato-based salsa, or mix it up with a strawberry salsa for a touch of sweetness.

Garlic Oil (Ajillo)

This warmed garlic oil is a less common dip for tostones due to its strong flavour, but it is still worth trying if you're a garlic lover. It is made by combining minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.

How to prevent tostones from drying out

Tostones are a traditional Latin American snack or side dish made from unripe green plantains. They are peeled, sliced, and then twice-fried until crispy, resulting in a savory and crunchy texture.

• Soak the plantains in salted water before frying: Combine 4 cups of cold water with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt and soak the plantain chunks in this solution for at least 20 minutes. This helps to prevent browning and excess drying during the frying process.
• Use enough oil: Coat the plantains generously with oil before placing them in the air fryer. This helps to seal in moisture and create a crispy exterior.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer: Arrange the plantain slices in a single layer, leaving space between each slice to allow proper air circulation.
• Use fresh green plantains: Do not refrigerate your plantains as this will cause them to dry out and break apart more easily when smashed.
• Cut plantains into small pieces: Cut the plantains into coins no bigger than 1 inch to ensure even cooking and prevent drying out.
• Use a lower temperature: Instead of cooking at a high temperature, use a lower temperature setting and increase the cooking time. This will help prevent the exterior from drying out too quickly.

How to store leftover tostones

Tostones are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, place the tostones on a rack set inside a baking sheet and pop them in the oven at 450°F for four to five minutes, or until they are hot and crispy.

You can also reheat tostones in an air fryer. Heat your air fryer to 350°F and place the tostones inside in an even layer. Heat for about two to three minutes, until warm and crispy.

If you want to freeze your tostones for longer-term storage, place them in an airtight container or plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to eat them, simply place the frozen tostones in the air fryer for eight to ten minutes at 380°F, until they are heated through and crispy.

Frequently asked questions