Tostones (Fried Plantains)

A Puerto Rican side, usually served with rice and beans in our family.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 4
• Yields: 2 dozen

Ingredients

• 2  cups  vegetable oil, for frying
• 3  plantains, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
•  salt, to taste
•  garlic powder, to taste

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Place a few plantain slices in the oil, and cook until lightly golden in color, about 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining slices.
2. While the plantain slices are still warm, place them one at a time between two sheets of wax paper, and flatten by hand to 1/4-inch thick. Return flattened slices to the skillet, and continue fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels, and season with salt and garlic powder.