Gulagula ya Trango (Comorian Banana Fritters)
Sweet, crispy, and fluffy banana fritters, a popular snack or dessert in Comoros. Made with ripe bananas, flour, and a touch of sweetness, these fritters are a delightful taste of the islands.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 medium Ripe bananas(mashed)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour(about 125g)
- 3 tbsp Sugar(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Ground cinnamon(optional)
- 0.25 tsp Ground nutmeg(optional)
- Vegetable oil(for frying)
- Powdered sugar(for dusting (optional))
- Honey(for drizzling (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You can use a fork or a potato masher.
💡 Tip: Overripe bananas are best as they are sweeter and easier to mash. - 2
Add the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon (if using), and nutmeg (if using) to the mashed bananas. Mix until just combined to form a thick batter. Do not overmix.
💡 Tip: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into the oil. - 3
Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C).
💡 Tip: Use a thermometer for accuracy, or test by dropping a tiny bit of batter; it should sizzle immediately. - 4
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches.
- 5
Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed up. Turn them gently to ensure even cooking.
- 6
Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- 7
Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey, if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and ease of mashing.
- ✓Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in tough fritters.
- ✓Maintain a consistent oil temperature for even cooking and to prevent the fritters from becoming greasy.
- ✓Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the bananas and your preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor.
- Incorporate a pinch of cardamom for a more complex spice note.
- For a slightly different texture, add a tablespoon of finely chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews.