That moment when you realise there is a name for something you enjoy doing. That is what happened when I found out the name “Kelewele” for the spicy fried plantains I enjoyed eating.

Typically when I fry my plantains I fry them bland, without salt. However, when I salt my plantains, I take it a step further and add spices to give it oomph. While doing some research for this post I found the name”Kelewele”. “Kelewele” is a Ghanaian spiced fried plantain dish eaten with roasted peanuts. I had never tried it with peanuts and I was willing to try. In many southwestern states in Nigeria, we eat roasted plantains with groundnut, so I was certain this would be good. Kelewele with groundnut is really good!

To make this delicious dish of spicy fried plantains, you need just the basics. Ripe plantains, salt, pepper. You can decide to take the flavour further by adding additional spices of choice. Just ensure you have an good balance of flavour.

Recipe

• Ripe Plantains
• Cayenne pepper (powder dried pepper, ata gigun)
• Ginger powder
• Salt
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Optional spices

• Paprika
• Nutmeg
• Black pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder

Procedure

• Cut plantain lengthwise and slice it into small shapes.
• Toss in salt and spices
• Heat up till very hot. I like to add a quarter of an onion into the hot oil so it can release its flavour into the oil.
• Add the spiced plantain into the hot oil and fry till golden brown.

Kelewele is typically enjoyed with roasted groundnut (peanut). Enjoy as you desire

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Drink recommendation

• Meals
• Plantain Goodness