Kelewele is a popular Ghanaian street food that features spicy, flavorful, and fried plantains. With a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, Kelewele captures the essence of Ghanaian cuisine. Typically served as a snack or side dish, these golden-brown plantain pieces are seasoned with a blend of spices and deep-fried until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Embrace the warmth and bold flavors of West Africa by preparing and savoring Kelewele in your own kitchen.
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Ingredients:
- 4 ripe plantains, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare Plantains:
- Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Place the plantain pieces in a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare a spice blend.
- In a small bowl, mix grated ginger, minced garlic, cayenne pepper, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika, and salt. Stir the spices until well combined.
- Coat plantains with a spice blend:
- Sprinkle the spice blend over the plantain pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated. Use your hands to gently toss the plantains, making sure each piece is covered with the spice mixture.
- Marinate:
- Allow the plantains to marinate in the spice blend for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the plantains.
- Heat Vegetable Oil:
- In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil for deep-frying over medium heat.
- Fry Kelewele:
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated plantain pieces to the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry until the plantains are golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Drain excess oil:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried Kelewele from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve Warm:
- Serve Kelewele warm as a delightful snack or side dish.
Embrace the bold and tantalizing flavors of Ghanaian cuisine with Kelewele—a delightful blend of sweet and spicy that is sure to add a burst of excitement to your taste buds. Enjoy this beloved West African street food!