Tostones; or Fried Plantains

Serves Two

• 1 ripe plantain, cut on the bias into ¼" slices
  
• Kosher salt
  
• Canola Oil
  

Soak plantains in heavily salted water for half an hour. Remove from water and drain/dry on paper towels.

Warm oil in the smallest pan you have that will also accommodate the plantains. Warm oil to 350 degrees. Fry plantains in oil for 4 minutes. Remove to a plate with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Do not let sit long. Using a clean glass, smash each of the plantains. Sprinkle the plantains liberally with salt and serve immediately (if you let them sit, they will taste like cardboard).

Serve alone or with your sauce of choice—guacamole, tamarind chutney, mojo sauce, red pepper sauce, ketchup (?)

Good as a side for any main dish of Latin extraction