Print

Crispy Ghanaian Kelewele Recipe Easy Spiced Fried Plantain Bites to Try Today

crispy Ghanaian kelewele - featured image
Print Recipe

A flavorful and addictive Ghanaian street food snack featuring crispy, spicy fried plantain bites coated in a warm blend of spices including ginger, cayenne, cloves, and nutmeg.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium ripe plantains (yellow with black spots)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • About 3 cups (700 ml) vegetable oil for deep frying (canola or peanut oil recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice the plantains: Cut off the ends, make a shallow slit along the peel and remove it. Slice into 1-inch (2.5 cm) bite-sized cubes.
  2. Make the spice mix: In a mixing bowl, combine grated ginger, minced garlic, cayenne pepper, ground cloves, nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and chopped onion if using. Stir well.
  3. Toss plantain chunks with spice mix: Add plantain cubes to the bowl and mix gently to coat. Add lemon juice if desired. Cover and marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Heat oil for frying: Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot to about 2 inches (5 cm) depth. Heat over medium-high until 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the plantains in batches: Add a handful of spiced plantain cubes to hot oil without overcrowding. Fry 3-5 minutes per batch, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Drain and cool: Remove fried plantains with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Let cool slightly to crisp further.
  7. Serve warm: Enjoy hot or at room temperature, optionally with spicy pepper sauce or your favorite dip.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to avoid greasy or burnt plantains. Marinate plantains for 15-20 minutes for best flavor. Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature steady. Drain well on paper towels. Optional seasoning after frying can add extra kick. Baking option available for a healthier alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: kelewele, Ghanaian snack, fried plantains, spicy plantains, street food, plantain bites, crispy plantains, African cuisine

Find it online: https://crispcraving.com/crispy-ghanaian-kelewele-recipe-easy-spiced-fried-plantain-bites-to-try-today/