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How to Make Tostones in the Microwave

Golden tostones arranged in an Anyday dish with a small bowl of garlic dipping sauce in the center.
PT5M PT6M

Prep Time

5 mins

Cook Time

6 mins

Free Time

to make a quick dipping sauce

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How to Make Tostones in the Microwave

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Tostones just got a major upgrade—crispy, golden, and so much easier to make! Steam plantains to tender perfection in the microwave using an Anyday dish. To get that classic crunch, give them a quick smash and transfer to the air fryer or oven—no deep-fryer needed! The result? Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and no oily splatter in sight. Serve them with garlic sauce, mojo, or any dip you like—easy and mess-free.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

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Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

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To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

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Dish

The Medium Shallow Everything Dish

Ingredients

  • 1 plantain, peeled and cut into 1-inch rounds
  • 4 tablespoons water
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Preparation

  1. Preheat an air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. While the air fryer preheats, place the sliced plantains, water, and salt in an Anyday dish. Toss sliced plantains in the salted water to coat completely. Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
  3. Cook in the microwave for 6 minutes, stirring halfway until the plantains turn a soft yellow color and are tender when pierced with a fork.
  4. Allow the plantains to cool slightly before handling. Place them between two pieces of parchment paper and carefully smash with something flat, such as a glass or measuring cup, to form the traditional tostone shape.
  5. Transfer the smashed plantains back to the Anyday dish and transfer to the air fryer and toast for 3-4 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Serve hot with mojo, garlic aioli, or other dips or sauces.

Suggestions

  • With mojo: Serve tostones with a side of garlicky mojo sauce (made with garlic, olive oil, sour orange juice, and herbs) for a traditional flavor.
  • Ceviche: Serve tostones with a side of fresh ceviche made with fish or shrimp, mixed with lime juice, cilantro, and chopped onions
  • Pulled pork: Top tostones with a generous helping of pulled pork, then garnish with pickled onions or cilantro for a hearty, savory bite.
  • Tostones with avocado: Serve tostones with sliced avocado, some salt, and cracked pepper for a simple snack.

Recipe Notes

  • Don't have an air fryer? Use a 500°F (260°F) oven, or pan fry them in hot oil at 375°F (190°C).
  • Look for firm, bright green plantains. They will hold their shape better compared to soft, browned plantains.
  • Cooking the plantains with salt and water helps season them, similar to the traditional salt wash used in some recipes.
  • For a lower sodium recipe, reduce the amount of salt or omit it entirely.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

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Looking to take your tostones to the next level? Trye  our favorite sauces to dip in

Mojo Verde

Combine 1/2 bunch chopped fresh cilantro, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 sliced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat), 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/8 tsp cumin, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt in a food processor or blender. Slowly add 1/4 cup olive oil while blending until smooth and emulsified ,. Adjust the seasoning with more lime or salt if needed.

Garlic Aioli

Mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp kosher salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper in a small bowl. Stir in 1 tbsp olive oil until creamy. Taste and adjust with more garlic or lemon juice as desired.

Microwave Match Up: Tostones

See for yourself—microwaving tostones speeds up the first step, so you can smash and fry in no time. *Includes preheat time

Appliance Cook Time
Microwave in an Anyday dish and Air Fryer 5-8 mins
Deep Fryer* 25-30 mins
Stovetop* 25-30 mins
Oven* 25-30 mins
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All You Need to Know About Cooking Tostones in the Microwave

What are tostones?

Tostones are a traditional dish enjoyed in several Caribbean and Latin American countries, including Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. Made from green plantains, they are sliced, steamed, or fried, smashed, and then crisped to golden perfection. Known for their savory and crunchy texture, tostones are often served as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, commonly paired with garlic sauce (mojo), guacamole, or other flavorful dips.

Can I make tostones without frying them twice?

Yes! By steaming the plantains first in an Anyday dish, you eliminate the need for the initial fry. The microwave softens the plantains, making them easy to smash before frying or crisping in an air fryer, oven, or traditional deep fryer.

Why do we cook plantains with salt?

Cooking plantains with salt mimics the traditional saltwater soak, which enhances the flavor, preserves their golden color, and keeps them from browning too quickly. This step ensures that your tostones have a vibrant color, a more pronounced flavor, and an authentic texture that’s similar to the traditional method.

How do I know when the plantains are ready to smash?

The plantains are ready to smash when they are tender and soft but still hold their shape. If they resist when you press them, microwave for another 1-2 minutes.

Can I use an air fryer or oven instead of deep frying?

Yes! After steaming and smashing the plantains, you can crisp them up in an air fryer or oven for a healthier option. Brush or spray the plantains with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5-8 minutes or bake in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

What’s the best way to serve tostones?

Tostones are delicious on their own or served with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, guacamole, or spicy mayo. They also pair well with ceviche, grilled meats, or as a base for loaded toppings like cheese, beans, or pulled pork.

Can I season tostones before frying?

Yes! Sprinkle the plantains with salt or your favorite seasoning blend right after steaming or just before frying for extra flavor. If you prefer, you can add garlic powder, paprika, or even a squeeze of lime for a tangy twist.

Are tostones healthier when made in an air fryer or oven?

Using an air fryer or oven to crisp the tostones requires less oil than traditional frying, making them a lighter alternative while still maintaining their signature crunch. It’s a great option if you’re looking to reduce oil intake.

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