Unlock the secret to making my easy air fryer tostones recipe crispy and perfect! This golden tostones recipe uses green plantains for a healthier, delicious snack, ideal for kids' parties or a good movie.
Plantains transform into golden, crispy tostones when air-fried, delivering a delicious, healthier twist on this beloved dish. These air fryer tostones capture all the crunch of traditional fried plantains with just a fraction of the oil, making them a great choice for family meals or gatherings without compromising on health or taste. Simple yet flavorful, they offer a satisfying bite, perfect with a touch of salt and your favorite dip on the side.
If you're hosting a party, air fryer tostones are ideal—quick to make in batches and universally appealing. Since they require only a small amount of oil, they’re a healthier snack option for kids and adults alike, letting you serve a satisfying dish without the heaviness of deep frying. Tostones also pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, from colorful hummus to Colombian hot sauce, making them versatile and perfect for easy entertaining.
Now, what exactly are plantains?
Plantains, though similar to bananas, need to be cooked due to their high starch content, particularly when green. Green plantains are firm and savory, making them ideal for tostones, while ripe yellow plantains are sweeter and better suited for desserts. This air fryer recipe brings out the rich flavor and firm texture of the green plantain, offering a taste of Latin American flavors that’s simple to enjoy at home.
The air fryer method is a great way to make perfect tostones with less mess and oil than traditional frying. It provides consistent heat for a crispy outside and a soft inside, making these tostones a lighter option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Plus, since the air fryer keeps things healthier, it’s perfect for those looking to reduce oil in their diet. The ease of making these air fryer chips is exactly why I love serving it every chance I get!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Tostones
- Green plantains: peeled and cut for the base of the tostones.
- Cold water:
- Salt (plus extra flaky sea salt for sprinkling): to taste for flavor
- Cooking oil spray or one tablespoon vegetable oil
- Pico de gallo optional
- Homemade Colombian aji hot sauce, optional
See recipe card for exact quantities.
Equipment
Directions to make Tostones in the Air Fryer
Prepare the Plantains:
Begin by peeling the green plantains, then slicing each into pieces. Cut off the ends of the plantains and make a shallow, length-wise cut along the length of the plantain - just enough to break through the skins.
Now, peel your plantains and cut the peeled plantains into thick slices.
Preheat and Arrange:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly coat them with cooking oil spray or toss them with vegetable oil for even crisping.
First Fry:
Air fry the plantains for about 10 minutes. Carefully remove them from the air fryer and, using a roller pin or the bottom of a cup, gently press each piece to flatten to about half an inch in thickness.
Second Fry:
Place the flattened plantains back in the air fryer in a single layer. Air fry for 5-10 minutes per side or until they’re crispy and golden brown. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt or garlic powder while they’re still warm.
Serve and Enjoy Crispy Tostones
Serve the tostones immediately with your choice of dips, such as a spicy colombian salasa, baked feta or brie dip, roasted eggplant dip, or a delicious chickpea hummus. Their crisp texture and savory taste make them the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. They are enjoyed best when fresh and hot from the air fryer.
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Storage for Air Fried Plantain Recipe
Though I prefer my tostones fresh from the air fryer, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The leftovers will not be as crispy as the fresh ones, so pop them back in the air fryer for another 3 minutes at 350 Fahrenheit.
More Plantain Dishes
Plantains are a versatile, delicious ingredient that can elevate any meal or snack platter with their unique flavor and texture. For a Colombian-inspired twist, try Patacones, which are crispy, savory, and the perfect base for dipping sauces. Or, bring some sweetness to the table with Platanos Maduros, which showcase the natural caramelized flavors of ripe plantains. For a surprising mix of sweet and savory, these Baked Plantains with Guava and Cheese are an indulgent treat that melts in your mouth. Finally, you can try Plantain Latkes for a fun twist on traditional latkes, blending plantain's mild sweetness with a crispy exterior.
Level Up Your Snack Platter
For an elevated snack platter, add some seasonal favorites like Baked Butternut Squash Chips for a healthy, festive crunch. Or try the Roasted Carrot Dip, which brings warmth and depth to any gathering. If you’re craving something sweet, these Chocolate-Covered Almond Butter Stuffed Dates make an easy and satisfying addition to your snack board.
To make it more substantial, the Vegan Eggplant Parmesan Stacks are a fantastic, hearty option. You can round off your spread with a Fall Charcuterie Board for an array of colors and flavors, including fruits, nuts, and cheeses.
If you have a sweet tooth, consider this White Chocolate Bark with Cranberry and Pistachio, or go for cozy winter treats like Chocolate-Covered Marshmallow Treats that are sure to impress.
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Drinks to Go with It
After one too many plantain chips, I get pretty parched, so having a delicious and refreshing drink handy makes the tostones even better!
Pair your plantain and snack platter creations with a refreshing mocktail! For a tropical flair, try the Mocktail Blue Hawaiian or Non-Alcoholic Piña Colada—they’ll transport you right to the islands. For something with a cozy, spiced flavor, a Chai White Russian Mocktail offers a creamy, warming option with Chai Tea Syrup. Consider serving a Non-Alcoholic Old-Fashioned to bring a classic, refined flavor to the table. You can also prepare a Butterfly Pea Flower Tea for a stunning, naturally vibrant blue drink that changes color with a squeeze of citrus.
See our guide to if your simple syrup is still good to use if you're speptical, see how to make your own easy version, and what you can use as possible substitutes.
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More Air Fryer Recipes
If you’re a fan of quick, crispy, and health-conscious dishes, air fryer recipes make fantastic additions to any meal. For a simple and satisfying main, try Tender Lemon Air Fryer Salmon for a moist, flavorful dish that’s ready in minutes. You can also go for Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Italian Seasoning, perfect for game day or gatherings.
For a vegetarian option, crispy Air Fryer Tofu is a versatile snack or topping for salads and bowls. Add more variety to your spread with Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks or serve a simple side of Roast Air Fryer Asparagus to keep things light. Lastly, for a cheesy treat, don’t miss these Air Fryer Fried Cheese Curds, which are perfectly melty inside and crispy outside.
Crispy and Golden Air Fryer Tostones
Equipment
- Paring knife
- Air Fryer Liners
- Tostonera
Ingredients
- 2 green plantains
- Regular table salt
- Flaky sea salt such as Maldon sea salt
- Cooking spray
- Pico de gallo optional
- Colombian aji hot sauce, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.
- While the air fryer is preheating, prepare the plantains. Start by cutting off the ends of the plantains, then make a shallow cut along the length of each plantain, just enough to penetrate the skin.
- Peel the plantains by inserting your thumb into the cut and gently pulling the skin away from the flesh. Cut the peeled plantains into thick slices, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
- Line your air fryer basket with air fryer liners or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Lightly coat the liners with cooking spray.
- Arrange the plantain slices in a single layer in the lined air fryer basket. It's okay if they overlap slightly, but avoid overcrowding.
- Lightly spray the tops of the plantain slices with cooking spray and sprinkle them with regular table salt.
- Place the basket in the preheated air fryer and cook for about 10 minutes.
- After the initial 10 minutes of cooking, gently take out the plantain slices from the air fryer. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a paper towel. Then, cover them with another layer of parchment paper. Applying pressure on the tostones using a large casserole dish or a similar flat object. Press down firmly to flatten them, making them thinner, wider, and less defined in shape.
- Return the plantain slices to the air fryer basket using tongs or a fork. Lightly spray the other side with cooking spray and sprinkle with regular table salt.
- Return the basket to the air fryer and continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the tostones are golden brown and crispy.
- Once the tostones are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- While the tostones are still hot, sprinkle them generously with flaky sea salt, such as Maldon sea salt. The contrast between the crispy texture and the flaky sea salt adds a delicious touch.
- Serve the tostones with your favorite pico de gallo and Colombian aji on the side for dipping. Enjoy them as a tasty snack or as a side dish to complement your meal.
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