Tostones

Directions

1. 1
   With a sharp small knife cut ends from each plantain and cut a lengthwise slit through skin.
2. 2
   Cut plantains crosswise into 1-inch-thick pieces and, beginning at slit, pry skin from pieces.
3. 3
   In a 12-inch nonstick skillet heat 1/2-inch oil over moderate heat until just hot enough to sizzle when a plantain piece is added.
4. 4
   Fry plantains in batches, without crowding, until tender and just golden, 2 to 3 minutes on each side.
5. 5
   With tongs transfer plantains as fried to paper towels to drain.
6. 6
   Remove skillet from heat and reserve oil.
7. 7
   With the bottom of a heavy saucepan or a wide solid metal spatula flatten plantains to 1/4-inch thick (about 3 inches in diameter).
8. 8
   Into a bowl of warm salted water dip flattened plantains, 1 at a time, and drain them well on paper towels.
9. 9
   Heat reserved oil over moderate heat until hot but not smoking and fry flattened plantains in batches, without crowding, until golden, about 3 minutes.
10. 10
    With tongs transfer tostones as fried to paper towels to drain and season with salt if desired.
11. 11
    Serve tostones immediately.