Haipai Spiced Plantain Fritters

Ingredients

While the original Ghanaian Kpekpele is made with ripe plantains and spices, the Haipai adaptation adds a unique twist by incorporating Chinese flavors and techniques. The Haipai Spiced Plantain Fritters feature a blend of aromatic spices such as ginger, garlic, and chili, which infuse the fritters with a distinct flavor. Additionally, the Haipai version is shaped into small patties and deep-fried until golden brown, giving them a crispy texture that contrasts with the soft and moist interior. We alse have the original recipe for Kpekpele, so you can check it out.

• 3 ripe plantains, mashed 3 ripe plantains, mashed
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the mashed plantains, all-purpose flour, ground ginger, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and chopped cilantro. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the plantain mixture and shape it into a small patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. 4.
   Carefully place the patties into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. 5.
   Remove the fritters from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the Haipai Spiced Plantain Fritters hot as a snack or appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ripe plantains — Choose plantains that are fully ripe with yellow skin and some black spots. They should be soft to the touch for easy mashing.
• All-purpose flour — If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the plantain mixture.
• Serve the fritters with a side of spicy dipping sauce or a cooling yogurt dip.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the fritters to your liking.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the fritters to ensure a crispy exterior.
• Serve the fritters immediately after frying for the best texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Haipai Spiced Plantain Fritters as a snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce of your choice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Haipai Spiced Plantain Fritters on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve them alongside the dipping sauce in small bowls for an inviting presentation.