Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (2024)

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  • by Michelle Blackwood, RN

This delicious Jamaican Banana Fritters recipe is so easy to prepare and kid-friendly. Banana fritters have been special tome from my childhood days and they taste just as delicious as my mom made them!

Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (1)

Are you looking for some quick and easy breakfast treats or snacks to eat during these cold days? These Jamaican Banana Fritters are for you!

Ripe bananas are a tasty, energy-boosting fruit that is often consumed as a quick snack in households worldwide.

Although we love bananas, some bananas become overripe and too soft, making them unappealing to eat on their own.

This is the ideal time to make these delicious banana fritters. Overripe bananas are ideal for making Jamaican Banana Fritters, which is where my recipe comes in. A sweet, delicious snack or breakfast recipe that you’ll want to eat again and again is waiting for you in the form of over-ripe bananas!

Other banana recipes on this site include Banana Blueberry Smoothie, Banana Oatmeal Pancakes, and Banana Porridge.

Banana fritters are a tasty, addictive breakfast recipe that many Jamaicans enjoy. Numerous cultures enjoy the fritters from the Caribbean to Southeast Asia. Banana fritters are a traditional snack in nearly every country where they are grown. It’s a kid-friendly, family-friendly, budget-friendly, and totally satisfying recipe.

Banana fritters bring me back to my childhood. It reminds me of my childhood house, where I ate the best home-cooked meals. My mother used to make a sweet treat for me that would cheer me up and fill my stomach.

Banana fritters have always been my go-to comfort food, in retrospect. My mother used to make banana fritters for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the entire family when I was a kid. My mother’s banana fritters recipe was simple and sweet, and I could always taste the love that went into them.

Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (2)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and Quick: The recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for those who want a quick and delicious breakfast or snack option.
  • Budget-Friendly: It’s a cost-effective way to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
  • Kid-Friendly: Banana fritters are a hit with kids, making them a family-friendly choice.
  • Nutrient-Packed: Bananas are not only tasty but also rich in essential vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, making this a healthy option.
  • Versatile: You can enjoy these fritters in various ways – sweet with jam or savory with tofu scramble or dipping sauce.
  • Health Benefits: Bananas offer numerous health benefits, from supporting kidney function to promoting heart health and weight loss.

Health Benefits Of Bananas

Bananas are one of the healthiest, most convenient, and most delicious fruit you can buy, and they’re also one of the cheapest. This makes them a great choice for anyone who wants to eat healthily.

  • This food, which is mostly made up of carbohydrates, also has a lot of important vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals in it. They have vitamin C, potassium, catechins, and resistant starch, which are all good for you.
  • Vitamin B6 is abundant in these foods.
  • You’ll get 10% of your daily vitamin C from this.
  • People who eat them can help keep their skin looking good because they have manganese in them.
  • Use this product prior to or following a workout to avoid cramping.
  • Unripe bananas also contain resistant starch, which your body cannot digest.
  • Furthermore, they may aid in weight loss because they are low in calories, high in nutrition, and filling.
  • Potassium is required for kidney function and blood pressure regulation.
  • Bananas, which contain a lot of potassium, may be particularly beneficial for keeping your kidneys healthy.
  • Potassium is abundant in bananas, which is good for blood pressure.
  • Bananas may be good for your heart because they have a lot of potassium and other good things for your body. Furthermore, their pectins and resistant starch may help to improve colon health.

Unripe green and yellow bananas can both satisfy your sweet tooth and keep you healthy.

Ingredients Needed

Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (3)
  • Bananas (very ripe, mashed): The star of the show, mashed bananas provide sweetness and a moist, fruity flavor to the fritters.
  • Almond Milk (or water): Adds a liquid component to the batter, ensuring it’s not too thick and contributing to the overall texture.
  • Vanilla: Enhances the flavor with a subtle hint of sweetness and a pleasant aroma.
  • Ground Flax Seeds: Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the fritters together and providing some nutritional value.
  • Flour (gluten-free or all-purpose): Forms the base of the batter, giving the fritters structure and volume.
  • Coconut Palm Sugar (or cane sugar): Provides sweetness and caramelization when the fritters are cooked.
  • Nutmeg (optional): Offers a warm, nutty flavor to complement the banana’s natural sweetness.
  • Cinnamon (optional): Adds a hint of spice and warmth to the fritters, enhancing their overall taste.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the fritters.
  • Coconut Oil: Used to cook the fritters, giving them a crispy and golden exterior while adding a touch of coconut flavor.

How To Make Jamaican Banana Fritters

  1. Mash bananas in a medium bowl, Stir in almond milk, vanilla, and flaxseeds. Set aside.
  2. Combine flour, coconut palm sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Add banana mixture and stir to combine until the batter is smooth fully.
  4. Heat oil on medium heat in a large skillet, making sure to cover the base.
  5. Place batter by the spoonful onto the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side or until golden.
Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (4)

Expert Tips

  • Make sure your bananas are very ripe; they should have brown spots on the skin. If your bananas are not very ripe, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar you use.
  • Utilize all-purpose flour and make certain that your batter contains an adequate amount of flour – If you use less flour and too many bananas, your fritters will stick to the pan, absorb a lot of oil, or break apart.
  • Control the amount of oil used – It is best to cook banana fritters in shallow oil.
  • Maintain the right oil temperature for frying. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you drop a small amount of batter, but not so hot that it burns the fritters.
  • Fry the fritters in batches, leaving enough space between them in the pan. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and sticking.
  • Using cold water to make the fritter batter helps keep them crisp.
  • If you want to focus on getting naturally occurring sugars, you can skip using any sweetener.
  • Bananas should be mashed. To puree the bananas, use a blender or potato masher. This will serve as the basis for the batter for the banana fritters.
  • As the batter cooks, it will slightly spread before turning golden. Flip the fritter using an egg lifter and repeat.
  • Allow the batter to cool. In the event that you’re short on time, it’s perfectly fine to skip this section. However, I recommend resting the batter for 5–10 minutes before cooking. This ensures a smoother, more uniform texture and allows for the relaxation of any gluten development, resulting in lighter, crispier fritters.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftover banana fritters for up to one day in an airtight container. Keep in mind that after storing, the texture will become softer.

Reheat them on a stove top in a dry nonstick frying pan over low heat, in a hot oven for 4-5 minutes, or in the air fryer to crisp them up again.

Bananas fritters should not be frozen because they will become mushy when thawed and reheated.

Serving Suggestions

Banana Fritters can be used in a variety of ways. They go well with a variety of foods. For a sweet option, serve with jam or even with a savory dish like tofu scramble.

You could also eat them after sprinkling powdered sugar on them. Pair with dipping sauce for a savory option.

Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (5)

Recipe FAQs

Are fried bananas healthy?

If they’re deep-fried, the extra calories may outweigh the nutrient value of both the banana and the coconut oil. However, if banana fritters are baked or made in an air-fryer with very little oil, they can sometimes be enjoyed as part of a balanced and healthy diet.

What is the origin of banana fritters?

Fritters have a long history in West Africa, where deep-frying is a common cooking method. Fritters could be served as an appetizer, a vegetable, or even a dessert in the African Atlantic, as they are here.

Why is it called a fritter?

The word “fritter” comes from the Latin word “frictura,” which means “a fry.” From the Latin word “berb frigere,” which means “to fry or roast,” Frictura was born. Obviously, our word fry is derived from this word.

What is the difference between a banana and a plantain?

Plantains are typically larger, tougher, and have thicker skin than bananas. Plantains are more starchy than bananas and aren’t as sweet when they’re green. However, they are sweeter when ripe and even sweeter when cooked. Plantains can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, baking, and frying.

Other Fritter Recipes

  1. Broccoli Fritters
  2. Plantain Fritters
  3. Jamaican Callaloo Fritters
  4. Black-Eyed Peas Fritters
  5. Vegan Corn Fritters
  6. Yellow Peas Fritters
Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (6)

Other Delicious Jamaican Recipes To Try

  • Jamaican Stew Peas And Dumplings
  • Jamaican Callaloo
  • Jamaican Rice And Peas

Take the time to sit, dine, and enjoy life with one another. Make these Jamaican Banana Fritters, and let me know about your experience by leaving a comment on this post! … Have Fun cooking!

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Categories

  • Categories: Gluten-Free, Vegan
  • Course: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: Jamaican
  • Season: All Year

Nutrition

(Per portion)

  • Energy: 249 kcal / 1041 kJ
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Carbs: 47 g

Cook Time

  • Preparation: 8 min
  • Cooking: 4 min
  • Ready in: 12 min
  • For: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 2 bananas, very ripe, mashed
  • 1 cup almond milk, or water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 tablespoon ground flax seeds
  • 1 1/2 cups flour, (I used gluten-free flour)
  • 1/4 cup coconut palm sugar, or cane sugar
  • Pinch ground nutmeg, (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • coconut oil, for light frying

Instructions

  1. Mash bananas in a medium bowl, Stir in almond milk, vanilla and flaxseeds. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, coconut palm sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon and salt.
  3. Add banana mixture and stir to fully combine until batter is smooth.
  4. Heat oil on medium-heat in a large skillet, making sure to cover the base.
  5. Place batter by the spoonsfull onto skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side or until golden.

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor. Adjust sugar if bananas aren’t ripe.
  • Ensure the batter contains enough all-purpose flour to prevent sticking and oil absorption.
  • Cook fritters in shallow oil for a lighter result.
  • Maintain the right oil temperature: hot enough to sizzle but not burn the fritters.
  • Fry in batches with space to avoid uneven cooking and sticking.
  • Cold water in the batter keeps fritters crisp and light.
  • Keep a close eye on fritters to prevent burning.
  • Customize sweetness by skipping added sweeteners for naturally occurring sugars.
  • Mash bananas thoroughly with a blender or potato masher.
  • Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking for a smoother, lighter texture.

Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (7)

Michelle Blackwood, RN

Hi, I’m Michelle, I’m the voice, content creator and photographer behind Healthier Steps. I share vegan and gluten-free recipes because of past health issues. My goal is to help you make healthier choices and show you how healthy eating is easy and delicious.

View all recipes by Michelle Blackwood, RN →

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Please Leave a Comment and a Rating

31 Comments

  1. Jeanne

    January 17, 2024

    Reply ↓

    Great recipe,it’s so yummy everyone like it,I will try to make this for my family

  2. Boniface karahari

    October 9, 2023

    Reply ↓

    I made this for my family and they loved it, thank you for this recipe!

    • Michelle Blackwood

      October 11, 2023

      Reply ↓

      Glad yall enjoyed it.

  3. Zab Zaria

    April 3, 2023

    Reply ↓

    Breakfast has never been better than this! My menu will definitely include this

Jamaican Banana Fritters Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What are banana fritters made of? ›

Banana fritters are an easy, quick, and delicious way to make use of very ripe bananas. The recipe calls for just a few ingredients that everyone should readily have on hand—bananas, flour, sugar, milk (or water), vanilla, and cinnamon—so these fritters are easy to prepare, cook, and eat!

Is baking soda or powder better for fritters? ›

Baking soda (bi-carb) OR baking powder – just a touch, to aerate the batter every so slightly (without it, it's slightly denser); Parmesan – for a good hit of savoury flavour AND to make the fritters extra crispy!

Why are my fritters not crispy? ›

You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of fritter batter into it. If it sizzles and starts cooking immediately, it's ready to go! Also make sure to use enough oil. If there isn't enough oil to fully submerge the fritters, they won't cook evenly and won't crisp up.

Why are my banana fritters sticking? ›

Use All-Purpose flour and ensure there's enough flour in your batter – Too little flour and too much bananas will make your fritters either; stick to your pan, absorb lots of oil, or fall apart.

What are Jamaican fritters made of? ›

Salt fish fritters are a staple of the Caribbean islands. Typically made by mixing salt cod with a flour-based batter that is deep-fried until golden, these savory snacks are a popular part of the daily diet. Salty and spicy with Scotch bonnet pepper, it's easy to see why these fritters are enjoyed by so many.

Does baking soda make fritters crispy? ›

Is baking soda or powder best for frying? A pinch of baking soda can help produce crispy fried foods. It reacts with the acid in the batter to create carbon dioxide bubbles. These lead to an airy batter and a crisper, fluffier result.

Can I use cornstarch instead of flour for fritters? ›

Using cornmeal instead of flour or bread crumbs keeps these zucchini fritters gluten free. Cornstarch: Helps to thicken up the mixture, while also soaking up some liquid. Baking Powder: Provides a little lift when cooking, so the fritters aren't super flat. Olive Oil: For cooking.

What is a good substitute for flour in fritters? ›

As an alternative you can replace with spelt flour, wholewheat flour, all purposes flour or even almond flour. Olive oil: use extra virgin olive oil for the best taste and nutrition. As a substitute, you are free to utilize any other type of oil or melted butter.

What is the secret to making fritters? ›

Add flour to your wet batter! Most veggies have a high water content (which we know equals soggy fritters). But don't stress! Adding flour to a wetter batter will give you the thick consistency need to make the perfect batter.

What is used to coat fruit for fritters? ›

Batter is also used to coat fruit for fritters.

How to stop fritters falling apart? ›

If your zucchini fritters are falling apart, it's likely because the fritters are sticking to the skillet or the batter was too wet. Getting the zucchini dry before preparing the batter so the binding agents can hold the fritter together. If you have a non-stick frying pan, opt for that as well.

What is a Jamaican banana called? ›

The Jamaican banana, often called “Jamaican Plantain,” is a well-known and useful banana variety. It is a common ingredient in Caribbean cooking and is distinguished by its bigger size and higher level of starchiness than standard bananas. Like the Iholena Banana, it can be used in place of starches like potatoes.

What makes fritters hard? ›

Don't overmix. Overmixing can cause the fritter to be gummy and tough. Only mix as much as you need to. I recommend skipping a mixer and doing this by hand to avoid overmixing.

What is the texture of a banana fritter? ›

A good banana fritter needs to have warm, soft banana in the centre encased in a light, crispy batter. I emphasise the crispy texture on these traditional fritters with a light, hard caramel coating that gives a distinctive 'snap' when you bite into it.

What are fritters made of? ›

fritter, any of various types of fried foods, generally consisting of small pieces of meat, vegetables, fruit, or dough. Plain fritters are deep-fried cakes of chou paste or a yeast dough. In another type, bits of meat, seafood, vegetables, or fruit are coated with batter and deep-fried.

What is fried banana made of? ›

They are made by dipping flattened bananas in a thick mixture of rice flour, sesame seeds, egg whites and coconut milk seasoned with salt and sugar and deep frying them in hot oil until crispy and golden.

Do Chinese eat banana fritters? ›

Batter-covered bananas a very popular treat in China, deep-fried and drizzled with a syrup glaze. Some recipes call for a double deep-fry which gives this sweet treat a richer flavour. Here is my take on the Chinese-style banana fritters.

What is deep-fried fritters made of? ›

In America, fritters are usually made like doughnuts, with a primary ingredient (like apple) mixed into an egg, flour, and milk batter. The doughnut-like fritters may be deep-fried or pan-fried.

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