Air Fryer Tostones Recipe

Green plantains: These are the main ingredient, providing the starchy base for the tostones. Make sure they are green and firm.

Olive oil: Used to coat the plantain slices, helping them to crisp up in the air fryer.

Salt: Adds essential seasoning to enhance the flavor of the tostones.

When preparing plantains for tostones, ensure they are green and not ripe. Green plantains have a starchy texture that is ideal for achieving the desired crispiness. After the initial air frying, use a flat-bottomed object to press the plantains evenly, which helps them cook uniformly and become extra crispy during the second fry.

• green plantains - Substitute with ripe plantains: Ripe plantains are sweeter and softer, which will give a different flavor and texture but can still be used for a variation of tostones.

• green plantains - Substitute with yuca (cassava): Yuca has a similar starchy texture and can be sliced and fried to mimic the crunchiness of tostones.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for air frying.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil also has a high smoke point and adds a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with the plantains.

• salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt adds an extra layer of flavor with a hint of garlic, enhancing the taste of the tostones.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a different texture and a slightly different flavor profile, often considered more natural and less processed.

• Allow the tostones to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled tostones in an airtight container. If stacking, use parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, arrange the tostones in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen tostones to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, reheat the tostones in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or until heated through and crispy. No need to thaw before reheating.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tostones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they are heated through and crispy.

• If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the tostones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warm and crispy.

• For a quick stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the tostones in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and regain their crispiness.

• If you have a microwave, place the tostones on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, though this method may not retain the crispiness as well as the others.

• For a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the tostones on the toaster oven tray and heat for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warm and crispy.

• Air fryer: This is the main appliance used to cook the plantains, giving them a crispy texture without deep frying.

• Knife: Essential for peeling and slicing the plantains into 1-inch thick pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for safely peeling and slicing the plantains.

• Mixing bowl: Used to toss the plantain slices with olive oil and salt, ensuring even coating.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the plantain slices halfway through the air frying process.

• Bowl or plate: Utilized to flatten the plantains after the initial air frying.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the olive oil and salt.

• Spatula: Can be used to remove the plantains from the air fryer basket without breaking them.

Preheat while prepping: Preheat your air fryer while you peel and slice the plantains to save time.

Use a mandoline: Slice the plantains quickly and evenly with a mandoline slicer.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of plantains in the air fryer to maximize efficiency.

Flatten efficiently: Use a flat-bottomed bowl to quickly flatten the plantains in one go.

Prep ahead: Peel and slice the plantains in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.