Air-Fryer Patacones with Hogao

Ingredients

• 2 green plantains, peeled and cut into 1½-inch chunks
• 2 tbsp oil or olive oil spray
• 1 tsp flaky salt
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 4 scallions, sliced
• ¼ tsp ground cumin
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 lime, in wedges

Method

1. Toss the plantain chunks with half the oil and air-fry at 400°F (205°C) for 8 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
2. Smash each hot chunk flat between a cutting board and a mug — about ¼ inch thick, edges craggy. The craggy bits are where the crunch lives.
3. Brush or spray with the remaining oil and air-fry another 6–8 minutes until crisp and deeply golden. Salt immediately.
4. While they crisp, simmer the tomatoes, scallions, garlic, and cumin in a splash of oil until saucy — that's your hogao.
5. Pile the patacones on a plate, spoon hogao over or alongside, and finish with lime.