Imagine biting into a golden, crispy fritter that melts in your mouth with the rich, sweet essence of perfectly ripe bananas - welcome to the world of Sonhos de Bananas! These traditional São Toméan delights are more than just a dessert; they're a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular treat that will transport your taste buds to the tropical islands of São Tome and Principe. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious food adventurer, these banana dreams are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: São Toméan
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 100g flour
- 50g sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the bananas by peeling and mashing them thoroughly in a large mixing bowl until they form a smooth, creamy consistency with minimal chunks.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.
- Gradually add the sugar to the mashed bananas and mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved and integrated.
- Slowly incorporate the flour and baking powder mixture into the banana mixture, stirring gently until a uniform batter is formed. The consistency should be thick but slightly runny.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed pot to approximately 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to allow the sonhos to float while frying.
- Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, carefully drop small dollops of the banana batter into the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the sonhos for 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even golden-brown coloration on all sides.
- Remove the fried sonhos using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Optional: Dust the warm sonhos with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the traditional São Toméan banana fritters.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Bananas: The key to incredible sonhos is using very ripe, almost overripe bananas. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your fritters will be.
- Oil Temperature is Crucial: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F (175°C). Too low, and your sonhos will absorb too much oil; too high, and they'll burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to ensure each sonhos gets evenly golden and crispy. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fritters.
- Drain Excess Oil: Always let your sonhos rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them light and crisp.
- Serve Immediately: These are best enjoyed warm, right after frying. The contrast between the crispy exterior and soft, warm interior is what makes them truly magical!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
