Ghanaian · Snack · Easy
Kelewele (Ghanaian Spiced Plantains)
0.0 (0 ratings)- Total
- 41 min
- Prep
- 25 min
- Serves
- 4
- Calories
- 240
Ripe plantain cubes fry with ginger, cayenne and warm cloves, turning golden and sweet under a spicy crust in this Ghanaian street snack.
The sweet center and peppery surface make Kelewele (Ghanaian Spiced Plantains) different from plain fried plantains. Ginger clings to the cubes as they brown, and a little ground clove gives the hot oil a warm aroma.
Use plantains with yellow skins and black patches that still feel firm enough to cut. Very soft fruit can collapse in the pan, while green plantains lack the sweetness that balances the spice.
Method
Mix ginger, cayenne, cloves, salt and measured water into a paste. Toss with the plantains until evenly coated and rest for .
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Lower in half the plantain cubes, leaving room to turn them.
Fry for , turning often, until golden brown with soft centers. Lift onto a rack and repeat with the remaining plantain, letting the oil return to temperature first.
Serve warm while the edges are firm and the centers are creamy. Scrape out any burnt spice fragments between batches.
Forkue tips
- Finely grate the ginger rather than chopping it; large pieces can burn before the plantain cooks.
Storing and reheating
Best eaten hot. Refrigerate leftovers for 2 days and spread on a sheet pan in a 400°F (200°C) oven to warm and firm the edges again.
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Kitchen gear
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Kelewele (Ghanaian Spiced Plantains): FAQ
Can I bake kelewele?
Yes. Toss the seasoned cubes with a little oil and roast on a hot sheet pan, turning once. They will be less evenly crisp than the fried version.
Why do the spices burn?
The oil may be too hot or loose pieces of ginger may have stayed in the pan. Keep the temperature steady and remove dark spice bits between batches.
How do I store and reheat Kelewele (Ghanaian Spiced Plantains)?
Best eaten hot. Refrigerate leftovers for 2 days and spread on a sheet pan in a 400°F (200°C) oven to warm and firm the edges again.
How long does Kelewele (Ghanaian Spiced Plantains) take?
About 41 min in total: 25 min prep and 16 min cooking.
What do I need to make Kelewele (Ghanaian Spiced Plantains)?
The key ingredients are plantains, ginger, cayenne pepper and ground cloves, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Kelewele (Ghanaian Spiced Plantains)?
Finely grate the ginger rather than chopping it; large pieces can burn before the plantain cooks.
