Easy Jamaican Banana Fritters: A Tropical Delight

Transform your overripe bananas into irresistible Jamaican banana fritters. These golden, crispy treats are even easier to make than pancakes and burst with Caribbean flavors!

Discover the perfect way to use up those spotty bananas sitting on your counter. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of mouthwatering Jamaican banana fritters in minutes. These sweet, crispy delights are a beloved staple across the Caribbean, offering a taste of tropical paradise in every bite.

Rooted in West African culinary traditions, banana fritters showcase the ingenuity of Caribbean cooks who created magic with limited ingredients. Unlike their light and fluffy pancake cousins, these fritters boast a satisfyingly dense and chewy texture that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Whether you’re serving them as a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a unique side dish to complement savory meals, these versatile fritters are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the world of Jamaican banana fritters and bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 4 overripe bananas (about 1 1/2 pounds; 680g total)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (7ml) vanilla extract
• Large pinch freshly ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (6 3/4 ounces; 192g)
• 3/4 cup (45ml) milk or water, plus more as needed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons (20g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, mash the overripe bananas with vanilla extract and nutmeg until you achieve a smooth puree. You should end up with about 1 1/2 cups of mashed banana goodness.
2. Gently fold in the flour, followed by milk (or water), until you have a thick, slightly lumpy batter. Aim for a consistency that’s thicker than pancake batter – spreadable but not runny. If needed, add extra liquid one tablespoon at a time to reach the desired texture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium sauté or frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully drop 2-tablespoon portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side. Transfer the crispy fritters to paper towels to drain excess oil, and repeat with the remaining batter.
4. While the fritters are still hot, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Transfer the fritters to a serving dish and generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over them. Serve these delightful treats hot or at room temperature as a tasty snack or a unique side dish to complement your meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican banana fritters are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them for breakfast with a steaming cup of coffee or cocoa, or serve them as a delicious side dish alongside savory Caribbean favorites like jerk chicken or rice and peas. For a decadent dessert, top warm fritters with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These fritters truly shine when served fresh and hot. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. To revive their crispiness, pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Jamaican banana fritters are more than just a tasty treat – they’re a celebration of Caribbean culinary heritage. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and sweet banana flavor, these fritters offer a delightful texture and taste experience. Plus, they’re an excellent way to reduce food waste by transforming overripe bananas into something extraordinary. Give this recipe a try, and transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked beaches of Jamaica!