How to prepare delicious tostones

Step 1 : To prepare Cuban tostones, first peel the green plantains.

Step 2 : With the tip of a small knife, cut the seams of the plantain from top to bottom, there are usually three or four seams.

Step 3 : Insert the knife tip under a seam and lift the peel with your fingers until it comes off.

Step 4 : Repeat this process with all the seams.

Step 5 : Then, cut the peeled plantains into one-inch pieces.

Step 6 : Next, heat the oil in a heavy skillet or cast iron over high heat.

Step 7 : Once the oil is hot, reduce the heat to medium.

Step 8 : Using tongs, carefully place the plantain pieces into the hot oil one by one, avoiding splashing.

Step 9 : Fry the plantain pieces on one side for about a minute and a half until they start to lightly brown, then flip to fry the other side.

Step 10 : After frying both sides, remove and place them on a plate with paper towels.

Step 11 : If you have a tostonera, flatten each fried plantain piece and place on a plate.

Step 12 : If not, a brown paper bag can be used: place a piece of plantain on one side of the bag, fold the other half over it, and press with the palm of your hand to achieve a circle about a quarter-inch thick.

Step 13 : Then, place the flattened plantains back into the hot oil and fry on both sides until golden brown.

Step 14 : Remove from the oil, sprinkle with salt, and serve immediately.

Step 15 : Some people prefer to sprinkle some water over the plantains after flattening them, allowing them to rest for 10 minutes before frying them a second time.

Step 16 : This makes them crunchier and tender, but it can also cause the hot oil to splatter more.

Step 17 : Finally, salt to taste and enjoy.