1 exquisite Kelewele (spicy fried plantains) Ghanaian snack recipe that delights palates with its combination of spicy and sweet tastes. Crafted from ripe plantains, cut into cubes, and flavored with cayenne pepper, fresh ginger, and salt, it presents a delightful fusion of warmth and sweetness. These plantain cubes are fried until golden, resulting in a crunchy outer layer that contrasts with the tender and flavorful interior. This traditional street food is adored by both locals and tourists, providing a delectable introduction to Ghana’s rich culinary tradition.
What is Kelewele?
Kelewele is a popular Ghanaian snack made from ripe plantains. These plantains are cut into cubes and seasoned with a blend of spices, including cayenne pepper, fresh ginger, and salt. The dish offers a delightful combination of spicy and sweet flavors that are fried until golden, resulting in a crunchy exterior and tender interior
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1 Exquisite Kelewele (spicy fried plantain) Ghanaian snack
Description
1 Exquisite Kelewele (spicy fried plantain) Ghanaian snack, a quintessential snack originating from Ghana, captures the vibrant essence of West African culinary traditions. Renowned for its delightful fusion of spicy and sweet flavours, this cherished dish is adored both domestically and on the bustling streets of Ghana.
Central to Kelewele is the humble plantain, a versatile staple in West African cuisine celebrated for its robust flavour. Carefully selected ripe plantains offer the ideal balance of sweetness and starchiness, sliced into bite-sized cubes in preparation for a flavorful metamorphosis.
The enchantment of Kelewele commences with its meticulous seasoning. Each plantain cube receives a generous coating of a fragrant spice blend, featuring elements such as cayenne pepper, fresh ginger, and salt. These spices imbue the plantains with depth and warmth, orchestrating a symphony of flavours that dance harmoniously on the palate.
Following seasoning, the plantain cubes undergo a meticulous frying process until they achieve golden perfection. The sizzle of hot oil heralds the creation of this delectable dish, as the plantains develop a tantalizingly crispy exterior juxtaposed with a tender interior.
The result is Kelewele in its full glory – a culinary masterpiece boasting a delightful textural contrast and a harmonious blend of spicy and sweet notes. Beyond its gastronomic appeal, Kelewele embodies the cultural richness of Ghanaian cuisine, serving as a symbol of tradition and unity.
Whether relished as a street food delight or prepared with love at home, Kelewele fosters a sense of togetherness and shared joy among its consumers. Its widespread popularity transcends generations, evoking fond memories and a deep-rooted connection to Ghanaian heritage.
In essence, Kelewele represents more than just a snack; it symbolizes the intrinsic values of Ghanaian culture. Through its tantalizing flavours and comforting nostalgia, Kelewele continues to captivate palates and hearts alike, leaving an enduring legacy in the realm of culinary excellence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- First, use a sharp knife to make a shallow incision along the length of the plantain, then peel off the skin.
- Proceed to dice the plantains into approximately 1-inch cubes.
- Grate ginger into a large bowl and combine with minced garlic and onions, either by chopping them separately or blending them together.
- Once blended, add cayenne pepper, anise seed, nutmeg, and salt to the mixture.
- Stir thoroughly.
- Next, add the diced plantains to the spice mix and ensure they are evenly coated.
- Let the plantain cubes marinate in the spices for 30 minutes.
- In a deep skillet, heat enough oil to partially immerse the plantains to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Divide the plantains into batches to prevent overcrowding, which is essential for achieving the desired texture.
- Fry each batch in the skillet, turning them once to brown evenly, for approximately 5 minutes per batch.
- Remove the fried plantains from the skillet using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Gently pat the plantains with additional paper towels to remove any remaining oil before serving immediately.
- Enjoy your delicious dish!
