True to the vibrant island vibe, this banana dessert combines the use of two ingredients we’re known for in the Caribbean. Fragrant ripe bananas and shredded dry coconut for that wonderful nutty finish. Very similar to banana fritters, this banana dessert is a great on it’s own or with a heaping scoop of ice cream(rum and raisin please) and it’s a great way to finish a spicy Caribbean style meal. However you must serve it hot or risk it going soggy very fast, with it’s rich creamy interior and flaky crust.
You’ll Need…
4 ripe bananas (firm)
veg oil for frying (2-3 cups)
1 cup all purpose flour
1 egg
2 tablespoon dessicated coconut flakes
2 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
pinch salt
1/4 cup water (see note below)
Notes: You can be a bit creative and add some vanilla, cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter if you wish. When making the batter you may need a bit more that then 1/4 cup of water I mentioned in the ingredients list, as your flour may be a bit different than what I used. You’re looking for a thick batter so adjust accordingly. When watching the video below you’ll noticed that I screwed-up the pronunciation of “dessicated” coconut..small thing.
* I stared off with 4 ripe bananas as I call for in the ingredients list, but it seems we have a banana thief dwelling in our home so I had 1 short. At this moment the RCMP, FBI, Homeland Security and other branches of the law enforcement are investigating. If only the flying squad was still around.
The first step in making this delicious banana dessert is to make the batter. In a large bowl, sift in the flour and baking soda, then add everything except the banana and oil. Using a whisk, whip until you have a thick smooth batter.
In a deep pan or deep-fryer heat your oil. You’ll need between 2 and 3 cups of vegetable oil.. as the oil heat it’s time to peel and slice your bananas. Don’t slice until you’re almost ready to fry as the banana will get discolored very fast. Peel and slice lengthwise into 1/8 inch (1/4 inch would work as well) thick slices. I also had my draining station already set for soaking up the extra oil after removing the battered bananas from the hot oil. (paper towels)
With your oil at 190C it’s time to dip the slices of banana into the batter, coat well and gently add them to the hot oil (shake off excess batter). Remember if you’re using an open pan as I did, add the battered banana pieces away from your body to avoid getting burned.
These will go golden brown very fast so be ready to flip after a couple minutes. Cook evenly on both sides, then remove and drain. Be ready for a delectable banana dessert.
It’s important that you serve these tasty coconut battered bananas hot, or as I mentioned in the notes above – they will go soggy and won’t be the same. Feel free to dust with powdered sugar for a wonderful presentation and delightful finish.
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