Kelewele – Ghanaian Spiced Fried Plantain

⏱ 25 min · Serves 4

Crispy on the outside, soft and sweet within, these fiery spiced plantain cubes are a beloved Ghanaian street snack that disappear from the plate almost as fast as you can make them. A punchy blend of ginger, chilli and cloves turns ripe plantain into something truly addictive.

Per serving: 268 kcal · 1.5g protein · 38.0g carbs · 13.0g fat

Ingredients

• 2 large ripe plantains (yellow with black spots)
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 tsp ground cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tbsp plain flour (optional, for extra crispness)
• 500ml vegetable oil, for frying

Method

1. Peel the plantains and cut into roughly 2cm cubes or diagonal chunks.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated ginger, cayenne, cloves, cinnamon and salt. Add the plantain pieces and toss well so every piece is coated. Sprinkle over the flour if using and toss again.
3. Pour the vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or wok to a depth of about 4cm. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C – a small piece of plantain should sizzle immediately when dropped in.
4. Working in two batches to avoid crowding, fry the spiced plantain for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until deep golden and caramelised on the outside.
5. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Taste and add a pinch more salt if needed. Serve immediately as a snack or side dish.