Tostones with Mojo

Step 1

Peel the 2 plantains and cut into 1 inch thick rounds. Heat 0.5 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering, about 2 minutes.

Step 2

Fry the plantain rounds in batches until pale golden, about 3 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and flatten each round with a plate or heavy glass until about 0.5 inch thick.

Step 3

Return the flattened plantains to the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with 0.5 tsp salt.

Step 4

In a small bowl, mash the 3 garlic cloves with the remaining 0.5 tsp salt. Stir in the 2 tbsp lime juice and 2 tbsp of the hot frying oil to make the mojo sauce.

Step 5

In a separate skillet, cook the 0.5 lb ground beef over medium-high, breaking it up, until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the 0.5 sliced onion and 0.5 sliced green pepper; cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Season with salt to taste.

Step 6

Serve the tostones topped with the beef mixture and drizzle with the mojo sauce. Add shredded lettuce and tomato if you like.

Step 7

Enjoy immediately while the tostones are crispy.