Description
Crispy, golden Air Fryer Tostones served with a zesty and creamy mojo dipping sauce made with Greek yogurt, fresh citrus juices, and herbs. These twice-fried plantain slices are a healthier, air-fried twist on the classic Caribbean snack that’s perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Tostones
- 2 medium green plantains
- Olive oil cooking spray
- 3 cups warm water
- 2 1/4 tsp kosher salt, divided, plus more for seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder, plus 1 pinch
For the Creamy Mojo Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 Tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
Instructions
- Prepare the Plantains: Trim and discard the ends of the plantains. Slice a slit along the length of each plantain peel, being careful not to cut the flesh. Cut the plantains crosswise into 1-inch rounds. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to peel off the skin from each slice and discard the peel.
- First Air Fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray. Arrange the plantain slices in a single layer in the basket without overlapping. Air fry at 400°F for about 6 minutes until the plantains are tender enough to smash yet hold together.
- Flatten the Plantains: Transfer the cooked plantains to a work surface. Using the bottom of a cup, gently press down to flatten each piece into a disk shape.
- Soak the Flattened Plantains: In a large bowl, combine warm water, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, stirring until dissolved. Soak the flattened plantains in this mixture for 5 minutes, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Spray both sides lightly with cooking spray.
- Second Air Fry: Place the flattened, dried plantains in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook again at 400°F for about 7 minutes until the tostones turn golden and crisp. Immediately season with additional kosher salt to taste.
- Make the Creamy Mojo Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together finely chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, ground cumin, remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and a pinch of garlic powder until well combined.
- Serve: Plate the hot, crispy tostones with the creamy mojo dipping sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy as a snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Use green (unripe) plantains for the best texture and flavor of tostones.
- Be careful when peeling to avoid damaging the plantain flesh.
- Patting the plantains dry before the second air fry ensures they crisp up nicely.
- You can adjust the amount of citrus juice in the dipping sauce to taste for more tanginess.
- Serve immediately after air frying to enjoy maximum crispiness.
- The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Keywords: Tostones, Air Fryer Plantains, Caribbean Snack, Mojo Sauce, Appetizer, Gluten Free, Crispy Plantains, Greek Yogurt Dip
