Tostadas are a traditional Mexican dish that is loved by people all around the world. These crispy tortillas topped with beans, meat, cheese, and a variety of fresh toppings are a delight to the taste buds. While traditionally, tostadas are made by frying tortillas in oil, in this article, we will explore a healthier alternative – making tostadas in an air fryer. With this quick and delicious recipe, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful tostadas without all the added calories from deep-frying.
What is an Air Fryer?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s first understand what an air fryer is. An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it. It uses minimal oil or sometimes no oil at all to achieve a crispy texture, making it a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Air fryers have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to cook food quickly and evenly, while still giving it a crispy exterior.
The Ingredients You Will Need
To make delicious tostadas in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Tostadas:
– Corn tortillas (you can also use flour tortillas if preferred)
– Cooking spray or a small amount of oil
For the Toppings:
– Refried beans
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Sliced avocados
– Chopped onions
– Chopped cilantro
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– Sour cream (optional)
Instructions
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make tostadas in an air fryer:
Step 1: Preparing the Tortillas
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is preheating, take your corn tortillas and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Alternatively, you can brush a small amount of oil on both sides of the tortillas using a pastry brush. This will help to give them a golden and crispy texture when they are cooked in the air fryer.
Step 2: Cooking the Tortillas
Once your air fryer is preheated, place the prepared tortillas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the tortillas in batches. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Air Frying the Tortillas
Close the air fryer and set the timer to 6 minutes. During this time, check the tortillas occasionally to ensure they are not cooking too quickly or burning. If you notice any areas browning faster than others, you can rotate the tortillas to promote even cooking. After 6 minutes, your tortillas should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Assembling the Tostadas
Once your tortillas are ready, it’s time to assemble your tostadas. Start by spreading a layer of refried beans on each tortilla. You can use a store-bought can of refried beans or make your own from scratch. Next, add a generous amount of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocados, chopped onions, and chopped cilantro.
Step 5: Adding the Final Touches
To complete your tostadas, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the toppings. You can use cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend for added flavor. If desired, you can also drizzle some sour cream on top for a creamy finish.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Your tostadas are now ready to be served and enjoyed. Arrange them on a platter and serve them as an appetizer or a main course. Tostadas are versatile, and you can customize the toppings based on your preferences. They are perfect for gatherings or for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Conclusion
Making tostadas in an air fryer is a wonderful alternative to traditional deep-frying. With minimal oil and a fraction of the cooking time, you can achieve deliciously crispy tortillas that are the perfect base for a variety of toppings. Whether you prefer a vegetarian option with beans and veggies or a meat-filled tostada, the possibilities are endless. Give this quick and delicious recipe a try, and enjoy the flavors of Mexico right in your own kitchen with the help of your trusty air fryer.