Quickie: Banana Frita (Brazil)
This Recipe
Banana Frita or Fried Banana is a classic Brazilian dish served on its own or as a side to a savoury main. Skillet frying the banana brings out a sweetness and softness that blends well with other flavours and foods. Some of my best memories are of eating these at home churrascos (BBQs) with friends.
Usually you would use a LOT more oil and often immerse the entire banana, but with this recipe we're using just 2 spoonfuls of oil and careful cooking, to get the same golden brown color and perfect texture that you would do with a pot of oil.
Makes 2 to 4 servings depending on appetite
INGREDIENTS - BANANAS
- 2 ripe bananas, peeled
- 1 handful of coconut flakes spread out on a cutting board or plate
- Coconut oil for skillet (you can also use butter)
Steps
Start by chopping your bananas in thirds. From these thirds, chop in halves so that you end up with 6 longish pieces for each of the bananas. (If you make them smaller, they have a higher chance of becoming mushy when you move them in the skillet.)
Next cover the banana pieces with coconut flakes (also almond meal would work here - this helps to avoid soaking up too much oil and also burning to pan.) Set aside.
Now heat 2 spoonfuls of coconut oil in a skillet over medium high heat. You may need to put in more depending on your burners, etc. but for now this should work. Once the skillet is hot and oil has melted, add banana pieces - making sure they don't touch. Heat for 2 minutes then carefully turn them over to cook other side. Heat for an additional 2 minutes until soft. Once banana pieces are done, remove from heat and place on a paper towel if you want to soak up excess oil.
Enjoy these on their own with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar or as a side!
