Fried Bananas (plantains)

To make peeling easier: grab one end and whack them on the countertop a few times. Then use a paring knife to score the peel lengthwise 3 or 4 times. For very ripe platanos, slice 3/4 - 1" thick and fry in oil (depth of oil should be slightly less than thickness of slices.) When golden brown turn and brown other side. Drain on absorbent towel. For moderately ripe platonos, slice 1/2 - 3/4" thick. Follow instructions above, but brown only lightly. Remove from pan and place slices on absorbent paper (NOT paper towels - I use unprinted newsprint paper). Cover with another layer of paper and press each slice firmly to flatten. Return to oil and finish off to golden brown.