Panamanian Kaimati

Recipe

Panamanian Kaimati

Crispy Panamanian Delight: Kaimati with a Tropical Twist

Indulge in the flavors of Panamanian cuisine with this delightful twist on the traditional African dish, Kaimati. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these Panamanian Kaimati are infused with tropical flavors that will transport you to the beautiful beaches of Panama.

Jan Dec

15 minutes

15 minutes

30 minutes

4 servings

Easy

Vegetarian, Vegan (if using plant-based milk), Dairy-free, Nut-free, Soy-free

Wheat

Gluten-free (due to the use of all-purpose flour)

Ingredients

In this Panamanian adaptation of Kaimati, we incorporate Panamanian flavors by adding mashed bananas to the dough, giving the fritters a tropical twist. Additionally, we use coconut milk instead of regular milk to enhance the coconut flavor. These modifications infuse the dish with the vibrant tastes of Panama, creating a unique and delicious variation of the original African recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Kaimati, so you can check it out.

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 4g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 10g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, mashed banana, coconut milk, sugar, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until a smooth batter is formed.
  2. 2.
    Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat.
  3. 3.
    Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying them in batches until golden brown and crispy. Flip them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  4. 4.
    Once cooked, remove the Kaimati from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. 5.
    Dust the Kaimati with powdered sugar while they are still warm.
  6. 6.
    Serve the Panamanian Kaimati warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Banana — Use ripe bananas for a sweeter flavor and easier mashing.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra tropical touch, you can add a pinch of grated lime zest to the batter.
  • Serve the Kaimati with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added sweetness and flavor.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, you can shallow fry the Kaimati instead of deep-frying them.
  • Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or nutmeg to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
  • These Kaimati are best enjoyed fresh and warm, so try to serve them immediately after frying.

Serving advice

Serve the Panamanian Kaimati as a delightful snack or dessert. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family on special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy any time of the day.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown Kaimati on a serving platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. You can also garnish them with fresh banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of elegance.