Crispy Banana Fritters with Indian Twist

Ingredients

In this Indian adaptation of Cokodok, we replace the traditional Malaysian ingredients like rice flour and coconut milk with chickpea flour and Indian spices. The addition of cumin, turmeric, and chili powder gives the fritters a distinct Indian flavor profile. The fritters are also deep-fried instead of shallow-fried, resulting in a crispier texture. We alse have the original recipe for Cokodok, so you can check it out.

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup (120g) chickpea flour 1 cup (120g) chickpea flour
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water (adjust as needed) 1/4 cup (60ml) water (adjust as needed)
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, chickpea flour, cumin powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring well, until you achieve a thick batter consistency.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
5. 5.
   Remove the fritters from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. 6.
   Serve hot and crispy spiced banana pakoras as a snack or appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chickpea flour — Ensure that the chickpea flour is fresh and free from lumps for a smooth batter consistency.
• Ripe bananas — Use ripe bananas for a naturally sweet flavor and soft texture in the fritters.
• Indian spices — Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for spiciness.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra crunch, you can add a handful of finely chopped onions or grated carrots to the batter.
• Serve the spiced banana pakoras with mint chutney or tamarind chutney for a tangy kick.
• Experiment with different Indian spices like garam masala or coriander powder to customize the flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the spiced banana pakoras hot as a snack or appetizer. They pair well with a cup of masala chai or a refreshing glass of lemonade.

Presentation advice

Arrange the crispy fritters on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with chutneys in small bowls for dipping.