Taiwanese-style Plantain Fritters

Ingredients

In this Taiwanese adaptation of Chifle, we incorporate Taiwanese flavors and cooking techniques to create a unique twist on the traditional Ecuadorian dish. The original Chifle is typically made with green plantains and seasoned with salt, while the Taiwanese-style fritters use ripe plantains and a combination of spices like five-spice powder and garlic. The deep-frying method remains the same, but the resulting fritters have a different flavor profile, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory. We alse have the original recipe for Chifle, so you can check it out.

• 4 ripe plantains 4 ripe plantains
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, five-spice powder, garlic powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Dip each plantain slice into the flour mixture, ensuring it is coated evenly.
5. 5.
   Carefully place the coated plantain slices into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides.
6. 6.
   Remove the fritters from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the Taiwanese-style plantain fritters hot and crispy.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Choose ripe plantains with yellow skin and some black spots. They should be firm but not overly soft for the best texture in the fritters.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy texture, you can double-fry the fritters. After the initial frying, let them cool for a few minutes, then fry them again until they turn golden brown and crispy.
• Serve the fritters with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of chili oil for an added kick.
• Experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of the fritters according to your taste preferences.

Serving advice

Serve the Taiwanese-style plantain fritters as a snack or appetizer. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy, straight from the frying pan.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fritters on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or Thai basil, to add a pop of color. Serve them alongside the dipping sauce for an inviting presentation.