Fried Bananas กล้วยแขก (gluay kag)
INGREDIENTS
Makes 24 pieces
- 2 sweet plantains or 6 namwa bananas*
- 1/3 cup shredded coconut, dried, fresh, or frozen**
- 3/4 cup rice flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 Tbsp white sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/3 cup of water
- oil for frying
Recipe Notes:
*Choose plantains whose skins have turned at least 60% black so they will be sweet (the more black on the skin, the sweeter the plantain). If using namwa bananas, choose ones that are almost ripe—mostly yellow with a hint of green. In Thailand, we also fry taro and sweet potato in this batter, which make for delicious savoury snacks!
**If using dried shredded coconut, make sure it is unsweetened, and mix with 2 Tbsp (30ml) of hot water for 10-15 minutes to rehydrate before using.
INSTRUCTIONS
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine rice flour, sugar, toasted sesame seeds, salt, baking powder and shredded coconut. Add water and stir until well combined.
If using plantains, peel and cut them crosswise into 3 equal sections, then slice each section horizontally into 4 pieces. If using namwa bananas, peel and cut the namwa bananas lengthwise into ¼-inch thick pieces.
Add about 1½ inches of oil to a pot and heat to about 325℉ (160℃). Dip the bananas into the batter and fry for about 5 minutes, until they are a deep brown colour. Maintain the frying temperature below 350℉ (175℃). When done, let drain on paper towel or a rack. Note: Based on your first batch, you can decide if you want a thicker or thinner coating by adding more flour or water.
Let bananas cool for several minutes before serving and the coating will crisp up once cooled. Serve as soon as they are cool and crisp.
fried bananas