Dominican Tostones Rellenos

Ingredients

• 2 large green plantains (the greener, the better!)
• 4-5 cups neutral oil for frying (like vegetable, canola, or corn oil)
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
• 1/2 cup warm water (for dipping plantains before the second fry)
• For the Classic Picadillo Filling (Seasoned Ground Beef):
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 large onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt
• black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)