Desserts Recipes - Deep-fried Banana Recipe

Ingredients

• 115g/4oz/1 cup plain (all-purpose) flour

• 2.5ml/1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)

• Pinch of salt

• 30ml/2 tbsp sugar

• 1 egg, beaten

• 90ml/6 tbsp water

• 30ml/2 tbsp shredded coconut or 15ml/1 tbsp sesame seeds

• 4 firm bananas

• vegetable oil, for deep-frying

• fresh mint sprigs, to decorate

• 30ml/2 tbsp clear honey, to serve (optional)

Serves 4

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Method:

1. Sift the flour, bicarbonate of soda and salt into a large bowl. Stir in the sugar and the egg, and whisk in just enough of the water to make quite a thin batter. Whisk in the shredded coconut or sesame seeds so that they are evenly distributed.

2. Peel the bananas. Carefully cut each one in half lengthways, then in half crossways to make 16 pieces of about the same size. Don't do this until you are ready to cook them because, once peeled, bananas quickly discolor.

3. Heat the oil in a wok or deep-fryer to a temperature of 190°C/375°F or until a cube of bread, dropped in the oil, browns in about 45 seconds.

4. Dip the banana pieces in the batter, then gently drop a few into the oil. Deep-fry until golden brown, then lift out and drain well on kitchen paper.

5. Cook the remaining banana pieces in the same way. Serve immediately with honey, if using, and decorated with sprigs of fresh mint.

These deliciously sweet and crunchy treats are a favorite with children and adults alike.

Variations: This recipe works just as well with many other types of fruit, such as pineapple rings or apple wedges.