Thinking of having a snack, but still want something satisfying, quick, healthy, and easy to make? Well, this article is for you. Ever heard of kelewele? A Ghanaian delicacy, kelewele is essentially fried plantains that have been seasoned with a variety of spices and served alongside a stew, rice or even on its own as a snack.
Ghana is a country with diverse cultures and a number of delicacies, but kelewele is one of the very few enjoyed by most, if not all, cultures. Kelewele can be eaten at any time, on any day, and at any event.
Kelewele has a goldish brown colour and a spicy taste that makes your mouth water at first sight. This dish is popularly made and sold by locals along the roadsides in Ghana but can also be made and enjoyed at home. There are several ways of making it, as people like to add a touch of creativity when making it at home.
Do find time to try out some kelewele when in Ghana, or make it at home if you have all the ingredients available.
Kelewele Recipe
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 ripe plantains, peeled
- 1 small ginger root, peeled and sliced into medallions
- ½ cup red chili slices, 2 tablespoons dried chile pepper, OR 1-2 teaspoons Cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon crushed cloves
- 1 medium onion, diced
- Vegetable oil, or other neutral oil for frying
- Salt, to taste
DIRECTIONS:
- Peel the plantains and cut them into small cubes. Add to a mixing bowl and set aside.
- Using a blender or food processor, blend ginger, cloves, onion, and red chili into a smooth paste. Use water to thin the mixture as necessary.
- Pour the blended mixture over the plantains, add salt to taste, and stir until evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot. There should be enough oil to completely cover the plantain slices.
- Carefully add the plantains and fry until golden brown. When finished, lift the plantains out of the pan with a slotted spoon and set on a paper towel to dry. Once finished frying all the slices, transfer them to a serving plate.
- Serve as you like, with or without peanuts, rice, or other accompaniments.
Note 1: For a video on how it is done, click here.
Note 2: If you are missing any ingredient, you can substitute some spices to suit your taste.