How to make it
7 steps. Take it one step at a time.
Peel the plantains
Peel the plantains by cutting off the ends and slicing through the skin lengthwise. Slice into 1-inch thick rounds.
Heat the vegetable oil
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat to about 325°F (163°C).
5 minFry the plantain rounds
Fry the plantain rounds for 3–4 minutes per side until they are soft and light golden, but not brown.
8 minRemove plantains from the oil
Remove plantains from the oil and drain on paper towels. Using a tostonera or the bottom of a heavy glass, smash each piece until it is about 1/4-inch thick.
Optional: Stir together water, smashed garlic, and a pinch of salt
Optional: Stir together water, smashed garlic, and a pinch of salt. Briefly dip each smashed plantain into the garlic water and pat dry.
Increase the oil heat
Increase the oil heat to 350°F (177°C). Fry the smashed plantains again for 2–3 minutes per side until crisp and deep golden brown.
5 minRemove from oil, drain,
Remove from oil, drain, and season immediately with salt while hot.
A little kitchen wisdom
Always use green, unripe plantains for tostones; yellow plantains are too sweet and soft. For extra flavor, dip the smashed plantains in salted garlic water for a few seconds before the second fry.



