Air Fryer Plantains
Air fryer plantains are hassle-free, almost oil-free, and easy to make in the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s a healthier way to enjoy this addictive snack or side without the mess. Sweet, tender goodness to accompany your favorite main course will be love at first bite.
Thanks for visiting my blog. If it’s not your first time, you know I love plantains! It reminds me so much of my beloved Africa, where they grow in abundance.
That is also why I have so many delicious plantain recipes. I love snacking on plantain chips because they’re super quick and easy. The other day, I was about to make fried plantains for dinner when my son asked if we could make them in the air fryer! Why not?
Plantains vs. Bananas
Although they’re related, they do have their differences. Often called frying bananas, plantains are starchier with less sugar. Green plantains are used more like a vegetable, making them a good substitute for potatoes in soups and stews.
They’re a little harder to peel, and the blacker they are, the sweeter they are. Though they’re usually cooked, I love eating black-skinned plantains raw.
Bananas are typically smaller, easier to peel, and eaten as is, though you can fry them too. They’re also used more in desserts because of the higher sugar content.
How to Make Plantains in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 375℉ (190℃).
- Peel – Cut both ends off the plantain with a sharp knife to make it easy to grab the skin. Carefully make a shallow slit down the long seam of the plantain. (Photo 1)
- Slice plantains into diagonal pieces or medium-sized slices and set them aside. Cut them smaller if desired. (Photo 2)
- Place the plantain slices in the air fryer, spray with cooking oil, if desired, and cook for 10 minutes while turning halfway through. Don’t crowd them so that they can cook evenly. (Photos 3-4)
- Transfer – Carefully remove plantains from the air fryer and transfer them to a paper-towel-lined plate or tray.
- Season with salt and your favorite spices if desired, and enjoy a bite! Serve them as a snack or a side for Instant Pot black beans.
Air Fryer Tips
Got your hands on a new air fryer unit? I had a lot of questions when I first used my air fryer. Here are some things to expect when making air fryer plantains for the first time.
- You’ll want to wash the basket (where you put the food) and dry it before using it.
- When you first use an air fryer, you’ll smell a light plastic odor. That’s because most brands of air fryers come with a protective coating. The odor will fade with use.
- When cooking air fryer plantains, don’t hesitate to take a peek to make sure all is going well.
- If cooking smaller bits of food, give the basket a good shake for even browning.
- Please don’t overcrowd your fryer! Food needs a little space to cook evenly.
- If you’re worried about plastic and non-stick residue, there are glass and stainless steel air fryers that eliminate the chemicals.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Air frying plantains means they don’t have as much oil. That means it’s easier to make them ahead and heat them back up in the air fryer. Let them cool before storing them in an airtight container so they don’t get soggy.
I’ve even frozen them on a baking sheet and stored them in a freezer bag when they become solid. Then, I pop what I want into the air fryer straight from the freezer for a quick snack or side dish.
Foods That Love Being With Air-Fried Plantains
I love these guys as a side for stew or red beans and rice. But sweet plantains also make a great dessert when drizzled with sweetened condensed milk or caramel sauce.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
Watch How to Make It
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This blog post was originally published in February 2022 and has been updated with additional tips, new photos, and a video.
On the video, the temperature of the air fryer is set to 375 degrees, but the recipe says to set it to 350 degrees. Which is correct?
It depends your preference. Anywhere from 350-380℉/177-190℃ will give you good results.
I love this. I season them first, add a bit of water to allow for even distribution, to give them peppery coating. Add a bit of oil (little), gently mix to spread the oil, in colander strainer. Wait a bit, then set into air-fryer.
Awesome ! Thanks for the tips
I loved this recipe, so simple, quick and easy!!
I’m glad you love this, Deborah. And you can pretty much serve this in so many ways.