Quick & Easy Vegan Plantain Sliders: Crispy Tostones with Plant-Based Chick'n & Avocado Cream

il y a 2 semaines

Quick & Easy Vegan Plantain Sliders: Crispy Tostones with Plant-Based Chick'n & Avocado Cream

Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack that's perfect for game day, parties, or just a fun weeknight meal? These quick and easy vegan plantain sliders are a fantastic twist on traditional sliders, swapping out bread for crispy, golden plantain bases. They're packed with flavorful plant-based chick'n and topped with a luscious, creamy avocado sauce. Plus, they're naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, making them an ideal choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.

As one enthusiastic reviewer shared, "This looks yummy! I will be trying to make these. Thank you for sharing 🥑 ❤️" and another exclaimed, "This is beautiful 😍." You'll love how fairly easy to make these are, bringing vibrant flavors and a unique texture to your table. If you're wondering how to make vegan sliders that are both unique and satisfying, these plantain sliders are your answer!

Why You'll Love These Plantain Sliders

These plantain sliders offer a refreshing alternative to typical appetizers. Instead of bread, crispy fried plantains (also known as tostones) provide a sturdy, naturally sweet, and savory base. Topped with seasoned plant-based chick'n and a zesty avocado-lime cream, they deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. They're perfect for:

Game Day Gatherings: A unique and hearty finger food that will stand out from the usual chili and chips. Impress your guests with these healthy vegan appetizers!
Quick Weeknight Meals: Easy to assemble and satisfying for a light dinner.
Diet-Friendly Snacking: Naturally vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, catering to diverse needs without compromising on taste.
Healthy Appetizers: A vibrant, whole-food option that's as nutritious as it is delicious. These make for some of the best vegan party food ideas!

What You'll Need

Yields: 4 sliders Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce

1 avocado
1 lime, juiced
1 tbsp vegan mayonnaise
1 cup fresh cilantro
1 tsp salt
Water, to thin

For the Plant-Based Chick'n

1 tbsp sunflower oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
1 cup vegan chick'n (shredded)
1 tbsp ancho chile powder
1 tbsp garlic powder

For the Plantain Base

2 tbsp sunflower oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
1 green plantain, peeled & cut into 4 pieces

For Assembly & Garnish

Fresh salsa (chopped tomato, red onion & cilantro)
Extra fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

Small blender or bullet
Frying pan
Spatula
Heavy glass or the bottom of a bowl for pressing plantains

Avocado, lime, vegan mayonnaise, and cilantro laid out on a table with chick'n and plantain and salsa.

How to Make Vegan Plantain Sliders

Follow these simple steps to create these incredible plant-based sliders:

Prepare the Avocado Cream: In a small blender or bullet, combine the avocado, lime juice, vegan mayonnaise, fresh cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth, gradually adding water as needed to reach your desired creamy consistency. Set aside.
Cook the Plant-Based Chick'n: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the shredded vegan chick'n, ancho chile powder, and garlic powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chick'n is golden and slightly crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
Fry the Plantain Bases (Tostones): Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in the same frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the peeled and cut green plantain pieces. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, until they just begin to turn golden.
Press and Re-fry Plantains: Remove the partially cooked plantains from the pan. Using the bottom of a heavy glass or a sturdy bowl, firmly press down on each plantain piece to flatten it into a disc (they will spread out). Return the flattened plantains to the hot pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes per side, or until deeply golden brown and crispy.
Assemble Your Sliders: Arrange the crispy plantain bases on a serving dish. Generously dollop each with the creamy avocado sauce, then top with a spoonful of the seasoned vegan chick'n. Add a sprinkle of fresh salsa and, if desired, a little more avocado cream and fresh cilantro.

Crispy golden plantain slider with shredded vegan chick'n and creamy avocado sauce.

Tips & Hacks for Success

Easy Plantain Peeling: Green plantains can be tricky to peel. To make it easier, place the plantain in a bowl of very hot water (or run it under hot water) for about 5-10 minutes. Then, use a sharp knife to carefully cut along the three natural spines of the plantain. Run your finger underneath the peel to loosen and remove it.
Perfect Tostones: The double-fry method is key to achieving that perfect crispy exterior and tender interior. Don't skip the pressing step! This is essential for traditional tostones.
Customizing Your Spice: Adjust the amount of ancho chile powder to your preference, or try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Make Ahead: The avocado cream can be made a few hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge (press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning). The chick'n can also be prepared ahead of time. For the best crispy texture, fry the plantains fresh right before serving.

Variations & Adaptations

These versatile sliders can be customized to your liking:

Different Plant-Based Proteins: Instead of chick'n, try seasoned black beans, crumbled firm tofu, or spiced lentil "meat" for a protein-packed alternative.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Add a dash of liquid smoke to your vegan chick'n or a pinch of smoked paprika for a delicious, savory depth.
Extra Toppings: Experiment with pickled red onions, thinly sliced jalapeños for a kick, or a sprinkle of vegan cheese shreds to make them even more satisfying.
Baked or Air-Fried Plantains: For a less oil-intensive option, you can bake or air fry your plantains until golden and crispy instead of pan-frying. Adjust cooking times accordingly, typically 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for baking, or 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) in an air fryer, flipping halfway.

Ready to try this game-changing appetizer? Whip up a batch of these Easy Vegan Plantain Sliders and let us know what you think! Share your delicious creations on abillion and inspire others to discover amazing plant-based recipes.