Tostones in the air fryer

Tostones in the air fryer are a crispy, golden take on the classic twice-fried plantains, but with less oil and just as much crunch. These delicious plantain rounds are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and make the perfect snack or side dish.

I first made these when I was looking for a healthier way to enjoy one of my favorite Latin American treats, and I was amazed at how easy and delicious they turned out. The air fryer gives them that signature crispiness without the need for deep frying, making them a lighter yet still satisfying option. What I love most about this recipe is how simple and customizable it is—you can season them with just salt or add garlic, lime, or a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.

What’s great about air fryer tostones is how versatile they are. Serve them with a side of mojo sauce, guacamole, or even as a crunchy base for toppings. Whether you’re looking for a healthier snack or a tasty side dish, these tostones are sure to become a favorite!

Perfect for:

Healthy snacking
Latin-inspired meals
Party appetizers
Family gatherings
Plantain lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Tostones in the Air Fryer will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen:

Crispy and Delicious: Achieve the perfect crunch without deep frying.
Healthier Alternative: Less oil means a lighter, guilt-free snack.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
Naturally Gluten-Free: A great choice for those avoiding gluten.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy with dips, sauces, or as a side dish.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
Customizable Flavor: Season with salt, garlic, or chili for variety.
Kid-Friendly Snack: A fun and nutritious alternative to chips.
Cultural Favorite: A beloved dish in many Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.
No Mess, No Fuss: The air fryer makes cleanup effortless.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 18 minutes
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
Key Nutrients: Carbs: 35g, Fiber: 3g, Fat: 4g

Ingredients

2 large green plantains
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

Green Plantains: The key to making the perfect tostones—firm and starchy for ultimate crispiness.
Olive Oil: Helps achieve a golden, crunchy texture without deep frying.
Garlic Powder: Adds an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the natural taste of the plantains.
Smoked Paprika: A subtle smoky kick for those who love bold flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Plantains:

Peel and Slice: Cut off the ends of the plantains. Slice the peel lengthwise and remove it carefully. Cut the plantains into 1-inch thick rounds.
Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

First Fry:

Coat and Cook: Toss the plantain slices with 1 tablespoon of oil. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Air Fry: Cook for 5 minutes, flipping halfway, until softened.

Smash and Second Fry:

Flatten: Use a tostonera (plantain press) or the bottom of a glass to gently flatten each round.
Season and Oil: Brush both sides with the remaining oil and season with salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
Air Fry Again: Place them back in the air fryer and cook for 5-7 more minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.

Serve:

Enjoy Hot: Serve immediately with your favorite dips and sauces.

How to Serve

Here are 10 delicious ways to enjoy Tostones in the Air Fryer:

With Mojo Sauce: A classic Cuban garlic-citrus dip.
With Guacamole: A creamy and flavorful contrast to the crispiness.
With Spicy Mayo: A zesty blend of mayonnaise, lime, and hot sauce.
With Black Bean Dip: A protein-packed pairing.
As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled meats or seafood.
With Salsa Verde: A tangy, herby dip for extra freshness.
With Cheese: Top with melted queso fresco for a savory twist.
With Shrimp Ceviche: A refreshing combination of textures and flavors.
As a Taco Base: Use flattened tostones as mini taco shells.
With Fried Eggs: A hearty breakfast option.

Additional Tips

Choose the Right Plantains – Use green, unripe plantains for the best crispy texture. Ripe plantains will be too soft and sweet for traditional tostones.
Slice Evenly – Cut the plantains into uniform pieces (about 1-inch thick) to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
Soak for Extra Crispiness – After the first fry, soak the flattened plantains in salted water for a few minutes to enhance flavor and crispiness. Pat them dry before air frying again.
Preheat the Air Fryer – A preheated air fryer (at around 375°F/190°C) helps achieve an even golden-brown color and crispier results.
Lightly Coat with Oil – A light spray or brush of oil on both sides prevents dryness and helps with even browning. Opt for avocado or olive oil for a healthier choice.
Flip for Even Cooking – Turn the plantains halfway through each cooking stage to ensure both sides get crispy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – Arrange the plantains in a single layer with space between them to allow proper air circulation.
Use a Flat Surface for Pressing – A tostonera (plantain press) works best, but a sturdy plate or the bottom of a glass can also flatten them effectively.
Season While Hot – Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, or your favorite seasoning as soon as they come out of the air fryer for maximum flavor absorption.
Serve Immediately – Tostones taste best fresh and hot. Pair them with a dipping sauce like mojo, garlic aioli, or a tangy salsa for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

Garlic Butter Tostones – Toss the twice-fried tostones in a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt for a rich, savory flavor.
Spicy Chili-Lime Tostones – Sprinkle with chili powder, smoked paprika, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty, spicy kick.
Cinnamon Sugar Tostones – Coat the tostones with a mix of cinnamon and sugar right after air frying for a sweet and crunchy treat.
Parmesan Herb Tostones – Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs while they’re still warm for a cheesy, aromatic twist.
Sweet & Spicy Honey Glazed Tostones – Drizzle with a blend of honey and hot sauce for a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
Mojito-Inspired Tostones – Toss with finely chopped mint, lime zest, and a touch of sea salt for a refreshing, citrusy bite.
Coconut Curry Tostones – Lightly dust with curry powder and shredded coconut for a tropical-inspired flavor boost.
BBQ-Rubbed Tostones – Coat with your favorite BBQ seasoning blend and serve with a smoky dipping sauce for a bold, barbecue-style snack.
Maple Beef Bacon Tostones – Drizzle with maple syrup and sprinkle with crispy beef bacon bits for a sweet and savory indulgence.
Avocado Crema Tostones – Top with a dollop of creamy avocado sauce made with blended avocado, sour cream, lime juice, and a hint of garlic for a smooth, tangy finish.

Special Equipment

Air Fryer: The key to achieving crispy tostones without deep frying.
Tostonera (Plantain Press): For easy and uniform flattening.
Sharp Knife: To peel and slice plantains safely.
Pastry Brush: For evenly coating plantains with oil.
Serving Dish: For an elegant presentation.

FAQ Section

Can I make tostones without an air fryer?
Yes! You can pan-fry them in a small amount of oil or bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.
How do I store leftover tostones?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes.
Can I freeze tostones?
Yes! Freeze after the first fry, then air fry straight from frozen when ready to eat.
What’s the best way to peel plantains?
Slice off both ends, make a lengthwise cut, and use your fingers to separate the peel from the flesh.
Why are my tostones not crispy?
Make sure to brush them with enough oil and avoid overcrowding in the air fryer.
Can I use ripe plantains?
Ripe plantains will turn out softer and sweeter, not crispy like traditional tostones.
How can I make them extra crunchy?
Soak flattened plantains in salted water for 5 minutes before the second fry.
Can I season them before cooking?
It’s best to season after flattening to ensure the flavors stick better.
Are tostones vegan?
Yes, as long as you use plant-based oil and seasonings.
What’s the best oil to use?
Avocado oil, olive oil, or coconut oil all work well for air frying.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Tostones are a healthier, crispy take on the classic twice-fried plantains! These golden bites are crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with that deliciously savory, slightly sweet plantain flavor. Using the air fryer cuts down on oil while still delivering that irresistible crispness.

Customize them by sprinkling with sea salt, adding a squeeze of lime, or serving with garlic mojo sauce for extra flavor. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these tostones pair beautifully with guacamole, salsa, or a creamy dipping sauce.

I can’t wait to see how your Air Fryer Tostones turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your crispy creations! And don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you made this recipe your own!