How To Cook Tostones In Air Fryer

Delicious and Crispy Tostones: Your Guide to Cooking in the Air Fryer

If you love the irresistible taste and crunch of tostones, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we will guide you on how to cook these delicious plantain snacks using an air fryer. The air fryer is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that uses hot air to achieve that perfect crispy texture without the need for excessive oil.

What are Tostones?

Tostones, also known as patacones, are a popular Latin American and Caribbean dish made from green plantains. These savory delights are typically served as a side dish or appetizer and are loved for their crispy exterior and soft, starchy interior.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Tostones in an Air Fryer

Follow these simple steps to prepare scrumptious tostones using your air fryer:

1. Selecting the Right Plantains: Choose green and unripe plantains as they are firmer and less sweet compared to ripe ones.
2. Peeling the Plantains: Start by cutting off the ends of the plantains, then make a lengthwise slit along the skin. Gently remove the skin by sliding your fingers under it.
3. Slicing the Plantains: Cut the plantains into thick slices, around 1 inch in thickness. You can choose to keep them round or flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon.
4. Preheating the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat.
5. Air Frying the Plantains: Lightly coat the plantain slices with vegetable oil and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
6. Smashing the Plantains: Once the plantains are tender on the inside and golden brown on the outside, remove them from the air fryer and place them on a cutting board. Use a flat object, like a plate or bottom of a glass, to gently flatten each slice into a disc-like shape.
7. Re-frying the Tostones: Return the flattened plantains to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until they turn crispy and golden brown.
8. Serving and Enjoying: Remove the tostones from the air fryer and sprinkle them with salt or your favorite seasoning. Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few tips and variations to elevate your tostone game:

• For extra flavor, try marinating the plantain slices in garlic-infused oil before air frying.
• Add a twist to your tostones by seasoning them with spices like chili powder, paprika, or cumin.
• Serve your tostones with a side of creamy avocado dip or tangy tomato salsa for a burst of flavor.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces, such as garlic mayonnaise or a zesty cilantro lime sauce.
• For a creative twist, layer your tostones with shredded meat, beans, and cheese, then broil them in the oven for a tasty toston sandwich.

Now that you know how to cook delicious and crispy tostones in an air fryer, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy these delectable snacks as a side dish or appetizer that everyone will love. Get creative with your seasonings and toppings to make each batch of tostones unique and truly mouthwatering. Happy cooking!