Air-Fryer Plantains: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Yes, you can cook plantain in an air fryer! This cooking method is a healthier alternative to frying plantain, which is traditionally done in a lot of oil. Air-fried plantain is a tasty, versatile side dish or snack that can be served with a variety of savoury and sweet foods.

How to cut plantains for the air fryer

To cut plantains for the air fryer, you'll first want to trim the ends off the plantain. Then, using a sharp knife, cut a slit down the length of the plantain. This will make it easier to remove the peel.

From here, you can cut the plantain in half, and then cut each half into 1/2-inch to 1-inch slices. If you want to make plantain chips, you can cut the plantain into thin slices. You can also cut the plantain into diagonal pieces or medium-sized slices.

It's important not to cut the plantain pieces too big, as they may not cook through in the air fryer.

How to peel plantains for the air fryer

Plantains are a versatile ingredient that can be used in all stages of ripeness. They are a staple in Southeast Asian, Latin American, and West African cuisines. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to peel plantains for the air fryer:

Step 1: Bring the Plantain to Room Temperature

Before peeling, it is recommended to bring the plantain to room temperature, especially if it has been stored in the refrigerator. The cold temperature can make it twice as hard to peel. You can soak the plantains in hot tap water for a few minutes to speed up the process.

Step 2: Cut Off the Ends

Place the plantain on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut off both ends of the plantain. Discard the tips. This step is crucial as it will make it easier to peel the plantain and expose the flesh.

Step 3: Make a Slit Along the Length of the Plantain

Hold the plantain firmly and use the tip of your knife to make a slit along the length of the plantain. Cut only as deep as the peel, and be careful not to cut into the flesh. This step will help loosen the peel and make it easier to remove.

Step 4: Optional Middle Cut

If you don't need the plantain to remain whole, you can make a cut in the middle around the circumference to make peeling even easier. You can also cut the plantain in half if that's more convenient for your recipe.

Step 5: Remove the Peel

Now, remove the peel by peeling it side to side rather than lengthwise. It will come off in sections, and you may need to use your knife to loosen each section from the flesh. Green plantain peels are stiff, while yellow plantain peels are more pliable, so adjust your technique accordingly.

Step 6: Clean Up the Flesh

Don't worry if a few small chunks of the flesh come off with the peel. Use your knife to carefully remove any remaining bits of peel from the flesh. Your plantain is now ready to be sliced and cooked in your air fryer!

Bonus Tips:

• If you're working with a green plantain, you may need to slide your knife just under the edge of the peel to loosen it without cutting the flesh.
• For air frying, look for plantains that are yellow but turning black, or fully black for the sweetest fried plantains.
• Slice the plantains into uniform pieces (about 1/2" thick) to ensure even cooking in the air fryer.

How long to cook plantains in the air fryer

Air-fried plantains are a tasty, healthier alternative to the traditional fried plantain dish. The cooking time will depend on the ripeness and thickness of the plantain slices.

Firstly, you should ensure that your plantains are ripe. Unripe plantains will not be as sweet, so it is worth letting them ripen on the counter for 3-5 days. Ripe plantains will be yellow with some black patches, or completely black. The darker the skin, the sweeter the plantain.

Once ripe, cut the ends off the plantain. Then, using a sharp knife, cut a slit along the length of the peel. Remove the skin and cut the plantain into 1/2" thick diagonal slices. If the plantain is soft, you can skip the slicing and place the whole plantain in the air fryer.

Next, lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil. Place the plantain slices in the basket in a single layer, and spray with more oil. If the plantain is soft, you can skip the slicing step and place the whole plantain in the basket. Sprinkle with salt, if desired.

Now, you can cook your plantain! Set the air fryer to 370-400°F and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until tender, flipping the plantains over halfway through. For softer plantains, you may need to cook for slightly less time, and firmer plantains may need a few extra minutes.

Once cooked, carefully transfer the plantain pieces to a serving plate and enjoy! You can sprinkle with cinnamon or sugar, or serve with a dip.

What type of plantains to use

When selecting plantains to cook in an air fryer, it is important to consider the ripeness of the fruit, as this will affect the taste and texture of the final dish. Here is a guide to help you choose the right type of plantain for your air fryer recipe:

Green Plantains

Green plantains are unripe and have white flesh. They are starchy and less sweet, making them ideal for savoury dishes. Green plantains are often used as a substitute for potatoes or rice. They are also commonly used to make tostones, a Latin American dish of crispy, fried plantain chips. When frying green plantains, they are usually cooked twice to achieve the desired crispness.

Yellow Plantains

As plantains ripen, they turn from green to yellow, and eventually black. Yellow plantains are starting to sweeten and are still firm. They can be used for sweet or savoury dishes, depending on your preference. If you are using yellow plantains, it is best to let them ripen further before cooking.

Black Plantains

Black plantains are fully ripe and have the sweetest flavour. The darker the skin, the sweeter the plantain. Black plantains are ideal for sweet dishes such as maduros, a classic Latin American side dish of soft, fried plantains.

In general, ripe plantains are best for air frying as they have a natural sweetness that is enhanced by the cooking process. Ripe plantains will also be softer, which means they are less likely to dry out during the air frying process.

When choosing plantains, it is also important to consider the texture. Ripe plantains should yield slightly when gently pressed, but they should still be firm and not overly soft or mushy. This will ensure that they hold their shape during cooking.

It is worth noting that plantains can be hard to find in grocery stores, and you may need to purchase unripe green plantains and let them ripen at home. This can take a few days to a week, so plan ahead if you want to make a dish with yellow or black plantains.

How to store leftover air-fried plantains

Air-fried plantains are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover air-fried plantains:

Allow the Plantains to Cool:

Let the air-fried plantains cool down to room temperature before storing them. Do not put hot plantains directly into the refrigerator, as this can affect their texture and taste.

Use an Airtight Container:

Place the cooled plantains in an airtight container. This will help keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out or absorbing odours from other foods in the refrigerator.

Store in the Refrigerator:

Keep the airtight container of plantains in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and safe to eat for up to four days.

Reheat Properly:

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover plantains, the best way to reheat them is in the air fryer. Place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for two to three minutes until they're warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make them soggy.

Check for Spoilage:

Before eating leftover plantains, always check them for any signs of spoilage. If they have an odd smell, discolouration, or an unusual texture, discard them.

Storing leftover air-fried plantains properly will help ensure they stay fresh and tasty, so you can enjoy them again without compromising on quality.

Frequently asked questions