Air Fryer Tostones: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Tostones, also known as patacones, are a Latin American snack or side dish made from green, unripe plantains. They are traditionally deep-fried twice, but can also be made in an air fryer with far less oil. This healthier alternative still yields crunchy, tasty tostones without the excess calories.

Choosing the right plantain

Go for Green: When making tostones, it is essential to use green plantains, which are unripe. As plantains ripen, they turn yellow, then brown, and finally black, becoming sweeter with each stage. Green plantains, on the other hand, are starchier and less sweet, making them ideal for tostones. They are also firmer, which is important for the frying and smashing process.

Firmness: In addition to colour, you want to ensure your plantains are firm. Avoid plantains with a lot of yellow on the peel, as they have already started to ripen and will taste sweeter. The ideal plantain for tostones should be very firm to the touch.

Size: While not directly related to choosing the right plantain, it is important to consider the size of your plantains when cutting them. For even cooking, cut your plantains into slices or coins no thicker than 1 inch. This will ensure they cook through properly during the frying process.

Freshness: Freshness is key when selecting plantains for tostones. Avoid refrigerated plantains, as they tend to dry out and break apart more easily when smashed. Choose plantains that are fresh and have not been stored in the fridge.

Number of Plantains: Depending on the number of servings you want to make, you will need to adjust the number of plantains used. For a single serving, one plantain is usually enough. However, if you are making tostones for multiple people, you may need two or more plantains.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to choosing the right plantain for making delicious tostones in your air fryer. Remember, green, firm, fresh plantains are the key to achieving that perfect crispy texture and savoury flavour that tostones are known for.

How to peel a plantain

To peel a plantain, start by bringing it to room temperature. If you've stored your plantains in the refrigerator, the low temperature can make it twice as hard to peel. Try soaking the plantains in hot tap water for a few minutes to warm them up.

Next, place the plantain on a cutting board and cut off the ends of the plantain, discarding the tips. Hold the plantain firmly and use the tip of your knife to slit the peel along its length. Only cut as deep as the thickness of the peel. For the easiest peeling, make a cut in the middle around the circumference of the plantain. If your plantain is green, slide your knife just under the edge of the peel to help loosen it, but be careful not to cut into the flesh.

Remove the plantain peel by peeling it side to side, rather than lengthwise. It will come off in sections, and you may need to use your knife at the edge of each section to help loosen the peel from the flesh. A green plantain's peel will be stiff, while a yellow plantain's peel will be more pliable. Don't worry if a few small chunks of fruit come off with the peel. Use your knife to remove any remnants of the peel left on the flesh.

The best oil to use

• Smoke Point: It was previously believed that olive oil was not suitable for frying due to its low smoke point. However, recent findings suggest that olive oil is perfectly suitable for frying and may even be healthier than other types of oil. When heated to its smoke point, oil begins to break down and produce harmful compounds. The smoke point of an oil varies depending on its type and quality. Therefore, it is essential to choose an oil with a smoke point above your cooking temperature to avoid overheating and potential degradation of the oil.
• Health Benefits: When it comes to health, olive oil is a great choice due to its anti-inflammatory properties and positive impact on heart health. However, other oils, such as peanut oil, can also offer their own set of health benefits, such as high levels of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
• Flavor: The flavor of the oil you choose can also affect the overall taste of your tostones. Olive oil, for example, has a distinct flavor that can enhance the taste of your dish. On the other hand, neutral-tasting oils will allow the natural flavors of the plantains to shine through without any interference.
• Cost: The cost of the oil is also an important consideration. Some oils, such as olive oil, can be more expensive than others. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, vegetable or canola oil might be a better choice.

When making tostones in an air fryer, it is crucial to ensure that the oil is evenly distributed on the plantains before placing them in the air fryer. This will help create a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and chewy center. The amount of oil used will depend on the number of plantains you are frying and the size of your air fryer. It is generally recommended to use enough oil to coat the plantains thoroughly.

How to flatten tostones

To flatten tostones, you need to use a tostonera, a tool used almost exclusively for this purpose. If you don't have a tostonera, you can use a flat-bottomed surface like a jar, mug, plate, or pan.

First, place the softened plantain between two sheets of wax paper, parchment paper, or a brown paper bag. Then, gently smash the plantain with your chosen tool until it forms a flat disc that is about 1/4-inch thick. You can also use the bottom of a big jar and press on a cutting table if you don't have a tostonera.

What to serve with tostones

Tostones are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of dips, toppings, and main courses. Here are some ideas for what to serve with tostones:

Dips and Sauces

A simple but tasty dip can be made by mixing mayonnaise and ketchup, known colloquially as "mayoketchu". This is the most popular condiment to serve with tostones. For a stronger flavor, you can also try a warmed garlic oil known as ajillo, made by combining minced garlic, olive oil, and salt. Other dips that pair well with tostones include chimichurri, a tangy, citrusy sauce, and a lime-cilantro aoili.

Toppings

Tostones can be topped with meats, sauces, and cheeses. One idea is to use tostones as a base for shrimp ceviche. They can also be filled with Cuban picadillo or ropa vieja.

Main Courses

Tostones are often served as a side dish or appetizer, but they can also accompany a heavier meal. Some main course options include rice and beans, pernil (Puerto Rican roasted pork), chuleta frita (Puerto Rican fried pork chops), empanadas, mofongo, and other cuchifritos. Tostones also pair well with Puerto Rican chicken and rice, a classic comfort food made with chicken, sofrito, pigeon peas, and rice.

Other Side Dishes

As tostones are typically served as a side dish, they can be accompanied by other side dishes as well. Some options include garlic sauteed Swiss chard, creamed spinach with Parmesan cheese, creamy mashed potatoes, and roasted broccoli and tomatoes.

Frequently asked questions