Fried bananas, or as some like to call them, banana fritters, are a beloved dessert in many cultures. From the bustling streets of Southeast Asia to the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean, these crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside treats offer a burst of flavor with every bite.
Whether you call them fried bananas, banana fritters, or pisang goreng (as they’re known in Indonesia), one thing’s for sure: they’re incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make at home. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to creating this classic treat, sharing some tips and tricks along the way to ensure your fried bananas turn out absolutely perfect. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get frying!
Ingredients for Perfectly Fried Bananas
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 12 fried bananas:
- 2 ripe bananas (look for bananas that are yellow with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup rice flour (this helps create a crispier texture)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds a warm, fragrant touch)
- 1/2 cup water (or adjust as needed to achieve a batter consistency)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional add-ins:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for extra crunch and nutty flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (for a touch of sweetness and chewiness)
Substitution Tip: While ripe bananas are ideal for frying, you can use slightly underripe bananas if needed. They might not be as sweet, but they’ll hold their shape better during frying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- One large mixing bowl
- One small mixing bowl (optional, for preparing the banana)
- A whisk
- A slotted spoon or tongs
- A plate lined with paper towels
- A heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Fried Bananas
1. Prepare the Bananas
Slice the bananas diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. If you prefer smaller bites, you can cut them into smaller rounds.
Chef’s Tip: To prevent the bananas from browning too quickly, you can toss them in a small bowl with a tablespoon of lemon juice.
2. Make the Batter
In the large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, rice flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Gradually add the water, whisking constantly, until you achieve a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the bananas but not too heavy.
Tip: If the batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
3. Heat the Oil
Pour enough oil into the pot or skillet to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, carefully sprinkle a tiny drop of batter into the oil. It should sizzle and float to the top immediately.
4. Fry the Bananas
Dip each banana slice into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Carefully place the coated banana slices into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fry the bananas for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Important: Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy bananas.
5. Drain and Serve
Once golden brown, remove the fried bananas from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs. Let them drain on the paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
Serve the fried bananas immediately while they’re still hot and crispy.
Fried Banana Platter
Tips and Tricks for the Best Fried Bananas
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, chewy bananas instead of crispy ones.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer your fried bananas sweeter, you can add a couple more tablespoons of sugar to the batter. You can also dust the fried bananas with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Get creative with toppings: While fried bananas are delicious on their own, feel free to experiment with different toppings. Here are some ideas:
- A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
- A dollop of whipped cream or ice cream
- A sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as peanuts or almonds
- A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg
- Make it a savory snack: For a savory twist, try adding a pinch of salt and pepper to the batter instead of cinnamon and sugar. You can also serve the fried bananas with a dipping sauce like ketchup or chili sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frying Bananas
Q: Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
A: Yes, you can use other types of oil for frying, such as canola oil, coconut oil, or peanut oil. Just make sure the oil has a high smoke point so it can withstand the heat of frying.
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to fry the bananas immediately after making the batter, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. Just give it a good whisk before dipping the bananas.
Q: How do I store leftover fried bananas?
A: Fried bananas are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours. They might lose some of their crispness, but they’ll still be delicious.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Sweet Reward of Fried Bananas
Fried bananas are a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can create truly extraordinary flavors. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of time, you can recreate this beloved street food treat in your own kitchen. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of biting into a warm, crispy, and utterly irresistible fried banana.
Woman Frying Bananas
Don’t forget to share your fried banana creations with us! Snap a picture and share your culinary masterpiece on social media using #FamilyCuisineFriedBananas. We can’t wait to see your tasty creations!
Craving more delicious recipes? Check out these other delightful treats from Family Cuisine:
- How to Make Kecap Asin Pedas: Discover the bold flavors of this spicy Indonesian soy sauce, perfect for adding a kick to your fried bananas or any other dish.
- How to Make Injeolmi Sauce: Explore the sweet and nutty flavors of this Korean sauce, a delicious topping for fried bananas or a variety of desserts.
- How to Make Funnel Cakes: Take your frying skills to the next level with this classic carnival treat, sure to impress your family and friends.
