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Recipe of Kelewele

Kelewele is an iconic street snack from Ghana that wins you over with its balance of sweetness and spice. This recipe for plantains, ripe and fried with ginger, red pepper, and cloves, is a classic of West African cuisine. Its origins trace back to the food stalls of Accra, where it is served as a snack or side dish alongside dishes like jollof rice. The secret lies in using very ripe plantains, which provide a natural sweetness that contrasts with the heat of the spices.

This preparation is ideal for those seeking a crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside bite with an exotic touch that is easy to achieve at home. The spice blend can be adjusted to your heat tolerance: if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the red pepper; if you like it intense, add more. The result is a perfect side for meats, fish, or simply to enjoy on its own.

There are variations that incorporate grated onion or a hint of lime, but this classic version highlights traditional flavors. With only 4 main ingredients and a few minutes of frying, you'll have a dish full of history and flavor.

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Recipe of Kelewele
Image generated with AI

Prep

30 min

Servings

4

Ingredients

Directions

  1. 1

    Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into bite-sized cubes or slices.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine the ground ginger, ground red pepper, ground cloves, and salt to create a spice mix.

  3. 3

    Sprinkle the spice mix over the plantain pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated. You can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less red pepper.

  4. 4

    Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to about 350°F (180°C).

  5. 5

    Carefully place the seasoned plantain pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary.

  6. 6

    Fry the plantains until they turn golden brown and crispy, usually for about 5-7 minutes.

  7. 7

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

  8. 8

    Serve your delicious Kelewele hot and enjoy!

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