Kelewele Spicy Fried Plantains Recipe

Discover the irresistible magic of Kelewele, Ghana's spicy fried plantains! This vibrant street food sensation is surprisingly simple to make at home. Crispy, golden-brown plantain cubes are tossed in a fragrant blend of ginger, cayenne pepper, and other warming spices, then fried to perfection. Learn how to achieve that perfect balance of sweet and spicy, creating a low-fat, high-fiber snack or side dish that's bursting with flavor. Perfect for Kwanzaa celebrations or any time you crave a taste of authentic African cuisine!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 146.2 kcal
Protein 3g
Rating 5.0 (5 Reviews)
Kelewele Spicy Fried Plantains 54

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Kelewele Spicy Fried Plantains

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How to Make Kelewele Spicy Fried Plantains

  1. Finely grate 1-inch piece of fresh ginger.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the grated ginger, 1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference), and 1 teaspoon salt. Add 2 tablespoons of water (or lemon juice for a zestier flavor) and mix well to form a paste.
  3. Peel and cut 3 ripe plantains into 1-inch cubes. Add the plantain cubes to a large bowl and pour the spice mixture over them. Toss gently to coat evenly. Let the plantains marinate for at least 10 minutes (longer is better!).
  4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
  5. Carefully add the plantain cubes to the hot oil in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Turn the plantains gently with tongs.
  6. Remove the fried plantains from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  7. Keep the cooked plantains warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you fry the remaining batches.
  8. Serve your delicious Kelewele immediately. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional).

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

16 g

Sugar

71g

Fat

0g

Carbs

12g