Tostones are fried, smashed and salted plantains. Another name for this type of plantain is patacones.
Heat the oil in a large skillet on medium heat. The oil should cover the bottom of the pan by at least ½ inch.
Peel the plantains.
Cut the plantains into 1-inch chunks and fry them for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden. Then, carefully place the plantains on a baking sheet lined with a paper towel.
Use something flat (like the back of a wooden spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup) to smash the plantains down. After smashing them, increase the heat of the oil and fry them until they are crispy and lightly browned, flipping halfway through. This should take 5-7 minutes.
Once the tostones are cooked, sprinkle them with salt and enjoy!
