Filipino Fried Banana Fritters – Crispy and Delicious Recipe

Filipino fried banana fritters, or Maruya, are a delightful snack with a crispy exterior and a naturally sweet and soft banana filling. Not only is it easy to prepare, but this dish also embodies the unique culinary culture of the Philippines. Let’s explore the detailed recipe to make this delicious treat right at home!

The Unique Cultural Origin of Filipino Fried Banana Fritters

Filipino fried banana fritters, or Maruya, are more than just a common snack; they are deeply intertwined with the cultural life of the Filipino people. This dish is often seen at festivals, family gatherings, or as an afternoon snack for children.

The distinctive feature of Maruya is its fan or thick round shape, sometimes skewered like a lollipop. This sets it apart from Vietnamese fried bananas, which are typically flat. Maruya is a testament to the creativity and skill of Filipinos in utilizing natural ingredients.

Filipino Fried Banana Fritters

Ingredients Needed for Filipino Fried Banana Fritters

The ingredients for this dish are simple and easy to find. Here is the detailed list:

• Bananas: Ripe but firm plantains or saba bananas are the perfect choice. They should have natural sweetness and retain their shape when fried. About 5-7 bananas are enough for one batch.
• All-purpose flour: 150g of all-purpose flour helps create a crispy texture.
• Rice flour: 30g of rice flour enhances crispiness and adds a nice color.
• Sugar: 50g of sugar (adjustable to taste).
• Salt: A pinch of salt (1/4 teaspoon) to balance the flavor.
• Coconut milk: 100ml of coconut milk (or unsweetened milk) to add richness.
• Vanilla: 1 vial of vanilla or a few drops of vanilla essence to enhance the aroma.
• Cooking oil: Enough oil to deep fry the fritters.

Necessary tools:

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or chopsticks
• Deep frying pan or small pot
• Paper towels
• Serving plate

Ingredients for Filipino Fried Banana Fritters

Detailed Instructions for Making Filipino Fried Banana Fritters

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

• Peel the bananas and cut them into bite-sized pieces. You can cut them into rounds, diagonally, or squares as desired. For an attractive shape, cut them diagonally into 1cm thick slices.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

• Combine the all-purpose flour, rice flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
• Gradually pour the coconut milk into the flour mixture, stirring with a whisk or chopsticks until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
• Add the vanilla to the batter and stir well again.
• Let the batter rest for about 15-20 minutes to achieve the best crispiness.

Step 3: Fry the Fritters

• Heat the oil in a deep frying pan until it starts to simmer.
• Dip each piece of banana into the batter, ensuring it is evenly coated.
• Fry the fritters over medium heat until golden on all sides and the exterior is crispy.
• Remove the fritters and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Enjoy

• Filipino fried banana fritters are best enjoyed hot. You can eat them as is or add powdered sugar, honey, or chocolate sauce to enhance the flavor.

Secrets to Perfect Filipino Fried Banana Fritters

1. Choose the right bananas: Ripe but firm plantains or saba bananas will give the fritters natural sweetness and help them maintain their shape when fried.
2. Mix the batter correctly: Combining all-purpose flour and rice flour will make the fritters crispier and last longer. Don’t forget to let the batter rest before frying.
3. Fry at the right temperature: The oil should be hot enough to ensure the fritters are evenly crispy and do not absorb too much oil.

Special Variation: Fried Banana Fritters with Salted Caramel Sauce

To add a unique twist, you can try the variation of fried banana fritters with salted caramel sauce. The combination of sweet caramel and a hint of sea salt will make the dish even more special.

How to make salted caramel sauce:

• Melt sugar over low heat until it turns amber.
• Add sea salt and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and thick.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.

Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the fritters when serving to enjoy the unique flavor!

Fried Banana Fritters with Salted Caramel Sauce

Conclusion: Filipino Fried Banana Fritters – A Flavorful Snack

Filipino fried banana fritters are not just a simple snack but also a cultural bridge, offering a sweet and unique flavor. With the detailed recipe and helpful tips above, you can easily make this dish at home to treat your family and friends.

Share your results with “Sổ Tay Món Ăn” and feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions. Wishing you success and enjoyable experiences in your kitchen!

References:

• Philippine Street Food Culture
• Cooking Tips for Perfect Banana Fritters