Snack
Classic Maruya (Filipino Banana Fritters)
Original name: Maruya (Banana Fritters)
About this dish
Maruya are crispy, golden-brown banana fritters that capture the sweetness of ripe saba bananas in every bite. These Filipino street food favorites are perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert, and this recipe makes them easy to recreate at home.
The contrast between their crunchy exterior and gooey, tender center is pure comfort.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
saba bananas (or plantains)
fruit6 pcs
Imperial measurement: 6 medium
all-purpose flour
grain200 g
Imperial measurement: 1 1/2 cups
granulated sugar
seasoning60 g
Imperial measurement: 1/4 cup
baking powder
other10 g
Imperial measurement: 2 teaspoons
salt
spicea pinch
water
liquid250 ml
Imperial measurement: 1 cup, more if needed
coconut oil or vegetable oil
fatabout 500 ml
Imperial measurement: 2 cups, for frying
brown sugar or honey (for topping)
seasoningto taste
Method
Prepare bananas
5 minsPeel saba bananas and cut each lengthwise into 3 slices, about 1.5 cm thick.
Make batter
3 minsIn a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add water gradually, whisking until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat a spoon.
Heat oil
2 minsIn a large wok or pan, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Test by dropping a little batter; it should sizzle.
Coat bananas
2 minsDip each banana slice into the batter, coating well. Let excess drip off.
Fry in batches
6 minsCarefully place coated bananas into hot oil, 3-4 at a time. Fry until deep golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use slotted spoon to turn.
Drain
1 minsRemove fritters and drain on paper towels.
Serve
1 minsServe warm, drizzled with honey or sprinkled with brown sugar if desired.
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- wooden spoon
- whisk
- wok or large pan
- slotted spoon
- paper towels
Nutrition facts
Tips
- For extra crispiness, use very ripe saba bananas and ensure the oil is hot enough before frying., Don't overcrowd the pan, fry in small batches so the oil temperature stays high and fritters come out crisp.
- If you can't find saba bananas, green plantains are a good substitute, though they will be less sweet.
Serving suggestions
- Serve maruya as a merienda snack with coffee or tea.
- You can.
- You can also top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.
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Recipe by
Liza Villanueva
Specialises in Filipino cuisineLiza makes ube halaya that has healed family rifts. She believes purple is a flavor.
Describe yourself in three words: Cheerful, whimsical, loves purple.