Plantain Fritters are a popular West African appetizer. The recipe below is a simple and delicious. If you cannot find plaintains, you substitute with semi-ripe bananas, which are sometimes available at most supermarkets.
PLANTAIN FRITTERS
Plantain fritters, a beloved dish in many cultures, offer a delightful fusion of taste and texture that captivates the palate. These crispy treats take humble plantains and transform them into irresistible bites of indulgence. With a simple yet flavorful preparation, plantain fritters become a canvas for culinary creativity, offering a versatile snack or side that satisfies cravings and adds a touch of tropical flair to any meal.
Equipment
- 1 bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 2 large plantains/semi-ripe bananas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup sliced onions
- salt and pepper to season
Instructions
- Dice the bananas.
- Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, water and oil in a bowl and mix thoroughly.
- Fold in onions and the diced bananas until well mixed.
- Oil a baking sheet and then drop the batter by tablespoonful onto the baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 400°F
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Video
Notes
- You can serve them as is with freshly ground black pepper and some salt.
- Serve these crispy appetizers hot, with a sprinkle of lemon juice.
- They also go well with hot sauce.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Plantains grow in tropical regions are grown in Africa as a food crop. They are similar to bananas but they do not have the same flavor. They come in different sizes and colors.
They can be purchased, year round, from Most supermarkets (Fresh produce section), African, Asian & Latin Grocery stores.
Key Nutrition
Fiber: HighVitamins: A, B6 & C
Minerals: Potassium & Calcium Selecting • If boiling - select green, firm unripe ones.
• For Deep Frying - select yellowish, brown ones. Storage Cool, dark and dry place Other Cooking Options Plantains can be boiled, grilled, steamed, fried or baked.
Nutritional ingredients of Plantain Fritters
The nutritional content of plantain fritters can vary based on the specific recipe, ingredients used, portion size, and method of cooking. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional components you might find in a typical serving of plantain fritters:
- Calories: Plantain fritters can range from around 100 to 200 calories per serving, depending on factors like portion size and frying method.
- Carbohydrates: Plantains are a good source of carbohydrates. Fritters made from plantains often contain around 20 to 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
- Protein: Plantains themselves are not very high in protein, so the protein content in plantain fritters can vary. Some recipes might include added sources of protein like eggs or other ingredients.
- Fat: The fat content in plantain fritters comes from the frying process. Frying can increase the fat content significantly, depending on the amount of oil used.
- Fiber: Plantains contain dietary fiber, which can contribute to a feeling of fullness. Fritters made from plantains can contain a moderate amount of fiber.
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: Plantains are a good source of vitamin A, which is important for vision, immune function, and skin health.
- Vitamin C: Plantains also contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system.
- Potassium: Plantains are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and more.
- Plantains:
- Plantains are a starchy fruit that provides complex carbohydrates and natural sugars. They contain various vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
Serving suggestion Plantain Fritters
Plantain fritters, with their delightful blend of flavors and satisfying crunch, lend themselves to a variety of serving suggestions that cater to different occasions and preferences. Here are some creative ways to enjoy and present your plantain fritters:
- Classic Snack: Serve plantain fritters as a classic snack on their own. Arrange them on a plate, sprinkle with a touch of salt, and provide a dipping sauce like spicy ketchup, garlic mayo, or a tangy chutney for added flavor.
- Appetizer Platter: Create an appetizer platter featuring plantain fritters as the star. Arrange them alongside an array of colorful and complimentary bites, such as cheese cubes, sliced vegetables, olives, and cured meats.
- Plantain Fritter Tacos: Craft unique tacos using plantain fritters as the base. Fill them with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a protein of your choice, and a drizzle of creamy avocado dressing.
- Tropical Salad: Elevate a fresh salad by placing warm plantain fritters on a bed of mixed greens, alongside slices of mango, avocado, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette.
- Plantain Slider Sandwiches: Assemble mini sandwiches using sliced plantain fritters as the “buns.” Layer them with your preferred fillings, such as grilled chicken, veggies, and a touch of aioli.
- Brunch Delight: Include plantain fritters as part of a hearty brunch spread. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, and a variety of spreads.
- Plantain Fritter Bowl: Create a bowl with a base of cooked grains or greens. Top it with plantain fritters, black beans, roasted vegetables, and your choice of protein. Finish with a drizzle of your favorite dressing.
- Side Dish with a Twist: Elevate your main course by using plantain fritters as a unique side dish. Pair them with grilled meats, poultry, seafood, or even a hearty stew.
- Family-style Sharing: Arrange a platter of plantain fritters in the center of the table for a family-style sharing experience. Encourage everyone to dig in and enjoy the crispy goodness together.
- Sweet and Savory Combo: Experiment with a fusion of flavors by serving plantain fritters alongside a sweet element, such as a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Things to pay attention to when cooking plantain fritters
Cooking plantain fritters involves a few key considerations to ensure that you achieve the desired texture, flavor, and overall success of the dish. Here are some important things to pay attention to when cooking plantain fritters:
- Ripe Plantains: Choose ripe plantains with yellow or slightly blackened skin. Riper plantains are sweeter and easier to mash, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Peeling and Preparation: Peel the plantains before mashing, slicing, or dicing them. Use a knife to score the skin and then peel it off. Make sure the plantains are free from any tough fibers.
- Texture: Pay attention to the texture of the plantain batter. If you’re mashing the plantains, ensure a smooth consistency. If you’re slicing or dicing, maintain a balanced texture that’s not too chunky or too fine.
- Seasoning: Add the right amount of seasoning to enhance the flavor. Common seasonings include salt, herbs, and spices. Balance is key to achieving a well-rounded taste.
- Binding Ingredients: If using additional binding ingredients like flour, cornmeal, or breadcrumbs, measure them accurately. They help hold the fritters together and contribute to the desired texture.
- Oil Temperature: Heat the oil to the right temperature before frying. Too hot, and the fritters may burn on the outside before cooking through; too cold, and they may become greasy.
- Frying Method: Choose between deep frying or shallow frying based on your preference. Deep frying immerses the fritters completely, while shallow frying requires flipping them to ensure even cooking.
- Oil Quantity: Use an appropriate amount of oil for frying. The fritters should be partially submerged in oil without being overcrowded in the pan.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy fritters. Fry in batches if needed.
- Flip Carefully: When frying, flip the fritters gently to ensure even browning on both sides. Use a slotted spoon or spatula to avoid splattering hot oil.
Plantain fritters not only satisfy culinary cravings but also carry with them a sense of togetherness. Whether served as a street food in bustling markets or presented on elegant platters at gatherings, they evoke memories of shared moments, laughter, and the joy of breaking bread with loved ones.
