Patacones (Fried Green Plantains)

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1. 1Step 1: Peel the plantains and cut cross-wise into 1/2 inch slices.
2. 2Step 2: In a medium heavy pot, add enough vegetable oil to cover the plantain slices and heat the oil over medium high heat.
3. 3Step 3: Add the plantain slices to the heated oil in a single layer. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Carefully remove the plantains with a slotted spoon, and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. 4Step 4: Let the patacones cool for 3 minutes. Then, place the plantains on a piece of plastic wrap and cover with another piece of plastic wrap. With a flat pot cover, press well on the pieces of plantain, flattening them to 1/4 inch thickness.
5. 5Step 5: Dip each slice in salted water. Then using tongs add them back in the hot oil in a single layer (you may need to work in batches) and fry for an additional 3 minutes on each side. Be careful when you fry the soaked plantains, as droplets of water will cause the oil to splatter.
6. 6Step 6: Remove the patacones with slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb oil, sprinkle with salt, to taste, transfer to a serving plate and serve hot with guacamole, tomato sauce or salsa.