Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside

Trim the end of each plantain and cut each plantain lengthwise on one side deep enough to cut through the skin but not the plantain.

Place the plantains in a pot with enough water to cover them and cook for about 30 to 40 minutes minutes or until they are soft.

Remove the pot from the heat and take one plantain at the time from the hot water (It’s better to smash them when they are still warm). Peel the plantain and cut them into 4 thick slices while still hot.

Flat each slice as much as possible without braking the piece using a tostonera or the bottom of a glass. Place them on the baking sheet, add cooking spay on top of each piece and sprinkle with salt. Bake for about 7 to 9 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Turn the patacones and bake on the other side for about 7 minutes. Season with more salt and serve with your favorite topping.