Tostada shells are a delicious and versatile Mexican dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a main meal. Traditionally, these crispy tortillas are deep-fried to achieve their signature crunch. However, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can make tostada shells in an air fryer. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and easy recipe to make crispy tostada shells using an air fryer.
Gather the Ingredients
To get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make your homemade tostada shells. The great thing about this recipe is that you probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry:
1. Corn tortillas: You can find these at your local grocery store or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
2. Cooking spray: Choose a non-stick cooking spray to help achieve that golden and crispy texture.
3. Salt: A pinch of salt will enhance the flavor of the tostada shells.
Preheat Your Air Fryer
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to preheat your air fryer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preheating. This step is important to ensure that your tostada shells cook evenly and become nice and crispy.
Prepare the Tortillas
To make the tostada shells, start by preparing the corn tortillas. Lay them out on a clean countertop or cutting board. Make sure they are at room temperature before proceeding.
Cutting the Tortillas
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, carefully cut the tortillas into smaller circles. The size of your tostada shells will depend on your preference. Some people prefer smaller, bite-sized tostadas for appetizers, while others enjoy larger ones for a full meal.
Prick the Tortillas
Once the tortillas are cut, use a fork to prick each one several times. This step allows steam to escape during cooking and prevents the shells from puffing up too much.
Air Fry the Tostada Shells
Now it’s time to cook your tostada shells in the air fryer. Follow these steps for perfect, crispy shells:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer Basket
To ensure even cooking, preheat the air fryer basket for a few minutes before placing the tortillas inside.
2. Arrange the Tortillas
Place the tortilla circles in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure there is a little space between each shell to allow for proper airflow.
3. Spray with Cooking Oil
Lightly spray the tortilla circles with cooking oil using the non-stick cooking spray. This will help them achieve a golden and crispy texture.
4. Sprinkle with Salt
To enhance the flavor, sprinkle a pinch of salt over the tortilla circles. Be mindful not to overdo it, as you can always add more salt later.
5. Cook in the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to the recommended temperature for cooking tortillas (around 350°F or 180°C) and the cooking time to approximately 5 minutes. However, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the tortillas and the specific model of your air fryer. Keep a close eye on the shells to prevent burning.
Flip and Repeat
After cooking for the initial time, carefully flip each tortilla shell using tongs or a spatula. This will ensure both sides become crispy and golden. Return the shells to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cool and Serve
Once the tostada shells are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack. They will continue to crisp up as they cool down.
Load ‘Em Up!
Now that you have your homemade tostada shells ready, it’s time to load them up with your favorite toppings. Tostadas are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Refried beans: Spread a layer of warm refried beans on each shell for a traditional base.
2. Salsa: Top with your choice of salsa – mild, medium, or spicy, depending on your preference for heat.
3. Guacamole: Add a dollop of creamy guacamole for a burst of freshness.
4. Protein: Choose your favorite protein source such as shredded chicken, ground beef, or diced tofu.
5. Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the toppings and melt it in the oven or microwave.
6. Lettuce and veggies: Finish off with a generous amount of lettuce and any other veggies you enjoy, like diced tomatoes and onions.
Conclusion
Making tostada shells in an air fryer is a fantastic way to achieve a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. With just a few simple steps, you can create your own homemade tostada shells that are both healthier and just as delicious. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, prepare the tortillas, and get ready to enjoy a delightful Mexican treat. Load them up with your favorite toppings and savor the crunch and flavor of your homemade air-fried tostada shells.