Ghanaian Kelewele (Spiced Fried Plantain)

15 mins Prep Time

20 mins Cook Time

Written By

Nadia Boachie

In Ghana, kelewele is a popular street food served by vendors across the city. It is fried spiced plantain served alone, as a side or with other finger foods like roasted peanuts. The recipe for kelewele is extremely easy to make and quite honestly makes the perfect snack. I like to use plantain that is just ripe to make mine, but if you want sweeter, softer kelewele, use very ripe plantain for a darker finish after frying due to the plantain's caramelization. If you have been looking for a different way to change your normal fried plantain, try this recipe out.

Ingredients

Ghanaian Kelewele (Spiced Fried Plantain)

4-6 ripe plantains (with little black spots)
1/4 white onion, roughly chopped
2 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon ginger, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon bouillon powder or small bouillon Maggi cube (optional)
1 teaspoon cayenne or chili pepper
Neutral oil, for deep frying

Directions

Ghanaian Kelewele (Spiced Fried Plantain)

8 Steps

Step 1

Using a sharp knife, cut both ends off the plantain. This will make it easy to grab the skin of the plantains. Slit a shallow line down the long seam of the plantain, cut only as deep as the peel. Remove plantain peel by pulling it back.
Step 2

Cut plantains in diagonal pieces and set aside.
Step 3

Pulse onions, ginger and garlic in a blender or food processor, with just enough water to facilitate blending, then add cayenne pepper, salt and bouillon. Set aside.
Step 4

In a large bowl, toss the plantain and ginger spice mixture together.
Step 5

Let it rest for about 10 to 20 minutes to absorb the flavour.
Step 6

Heat up a large skillet or cast iron with neutral oil up to 1/2"-inch medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
Step 7

Fry the plantain cubes in batches, turning once, until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Do not overcrowd the pan (it will cause the plantains to be soggy and absorb excess oil).
Step 8

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried plantains to a plate lined with paper towels. Serve warm.