Go Bananas Fritters

Go Bananas Fritters is a beloved Asian dish common throughout Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia. Pisang Raja, known as the Banana King, is the ideal variety for this recipe due to its beautifully golden yellow interior and naturally sweet flavor. Alternatively, Pisang Abu can be used if Pisang Raja is unavailable.

As a child, I fondly remember enjoying these banana fritters, their crispy exterior giving way to warm, tender fruit inside. With bananas being abundantly produced and available year-round in countless varieties, each with its unique taste and texture, this snack holds a special place in my memories.

While working at a creche in São Paulo, I prepared this quick and healthy snack for the children using plentiful bananas, opting for a lighter batter over the usual flour-heavy, sugar-laden options commonly found. The children delighted in the natural sweetness of the fruit enhanced by the delicate, crispy coating.

You may occasionally find Pisang Raja bananas at Asian grocery stores, although in regions such as Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom, they can be quite scarce. Regular ripe bananas work beautifully as well.

The secret to these fritters lies in mastering a crispy yet tender batter that doesn't absorb excess oil. Unlike traditional deep frying methods, this recipe calls for searing the batter in a skillet with minimal coconut oil, creating a healthier version that maintains all the satisfying crunch and flavor.

When seared properly, the batter becomes delightfully crispy while the banana inside remains moist and tender, creating a perfect balance of textures that makes for a truly irresistible treat.