Forget everything you think you know about bananas – because fried green bananas are about to become your new favorite snack. This simple recipe transforms unripe bananas into crispy, sweet, and utterly addictive treats. Imagine the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried exterior giving way to the soft, slightly tangy interior, all coated in a delicate, warming ginger sugar. It's a delightful explosion of textures and flavors that's surprisingly easy to achieve at home. This unique dish is perfect as a side, a dessert, or a satisfying standalone snack.
Ready to experience the magic of fried green bananas? This recipe provides a step-by-step guide, from preparing the bananas to achieving that perfect golden-brown crispiness and sweet ginger sugar coating. Let's get cooking!
Tools Needed
- knife
- basin
- peeler
- frying pan
- gloves or bag for hands
Ingredients
- Green Bananas (ripe but still green): 1 bunch
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Ginger: 30 grams
- Lemon: 1
- Salt: a little
- Water: 3 tablespoons (for ginger juice)
- Cooking Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate Bananas
- green bananas, sugar, ginger, lemon, and salt.
- Mix salt and squeezed lemon juice in a basin of water. This helps prevent the bananas from turning black.
- Slice the banana lengthwise, then peel it carefully, using gloves or a bag to avoid staining your hands.
- Submerge the peeled bananas in the prepared salt-lemon water to clean the sap and prevent discoloration.
Step 2. Make the Ginger Sugar Syrup and Prepare Bananas for Frying
- Combine sugar, grated ginger, salt, and water in a pot. Boil until the ginger is softened and the sugar is dissolved.
- Use a peeler to thinly grate the bananas. Aim for a moderate thickness to ensure crispiness.
Step 3. Fry the Bananas in Two Stages
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Add the grated bananas and fry until they are firm and dry, then separate any stuck pieces.
- Remove fried bananas and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Add a small portion of the ginger sugar syrup to the fried bananas in the pan. Fry gently until the syrup coats the bananas evenly and turns golden brown, maintaining a crispy texture. Repeat with the rest of the bananas.
Step 4. Serve
- Once golden and crispy, remove the bananas from the pan and let them cool slightly before serving.
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Choose ripe but still green bananas for the best flavor.
- Don't fry the bananas too long during the first fry; they'll be fried again with the sugar syrup.
- Fry with sugar syrup at medium heat to avoid burning the bananas.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within a week.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use ripe bananas instead of green bananas?
No, ripe bananas are too soft and sweet. Green bananas are essential for the crispy texture and slight tang.
2. What type of oil should I use for frying?
Vegetable oil, coconut oil, or peanut oil all work well. Choose a high-heat oil with a neutral flavor.
3. How can I store leftover fried green bananas?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're best enjoyed fresh but still tasty reheated.
So there you have it – crispy, sweet, and utterly irresistible fried green bananas with a delightful ginger sugar coating. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary culinary experience. Enjoy this unique and flavorful treat as a snack, side dish, or even a surprising dessert!