National Dish Burkina Faso: Fried Plantains (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Bananes Plantains Frites, the crisp golden plantain slices that turn up everywhere from roadside stalls to family tables across Burkina Faso. Firmer and far less sweet than the bananas most of us know, plantains fry up beautifully — crunchy at the edges, soft and mellow inside. A pinch of salt is all they need. Simple, satisfying and endlessly moreish, they bring a genuine taste of West Africa to your own kitchen.
About Fried Plantains
Delicious fried plantains are a distinctive and much-loved dish from Burkina Faso. This fried banana variation is often served as a side to a range of main courses, yet it holds its own place on the culinary stage too. Plantains, which are firmer and less sweet than ordinary bananas, make the perfect base for this delicious preparation. The combination of a crisp texture and a mild, gentle flavour makes them an absolute treat.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 large green plantains
- Oil for deep-frying
- Salt to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for fried plantains are easy to track down. Plantains are stocked by most supermarkets as well as African and Asian grocers. Look for fruit that is ripe but still firm, as this gives the best texture once fried. You will also want a good-quality frying oil, such as groundnut or sunflower oil, to achieve a properly crisp result — the same oil that serves you well for Beignets De Banane.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking, peel the plantains and cut them into even, thick slices. This ensures they cook through evenly and take on a lovely golden colour. Bear in mind that the slices puff up a little as they fry, so err on the thicker side. Have your oil heating in a deep pan or fryer so it reaches the right temperature — this is crucial for a crisp finish.
Step-by-step instructions
- Peel the plantains and cut them into thick slices.
- Heat the oil in a pan until it is hot enough (around 180°C).
- Carefully lower the plantain slices into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
- Drain the fried plantains on kitchen paper and sprinkle with salt.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Fried plantains are naturally gluten-free and lactose-free. Because only natural ingredients such as plantains and oil are involved, anyone with these intolerances can enjoy the dish without a second thought. Just make sure you use a pure frying oil with no additives so the recipe stays reliably gluten-free. That makes these plantains an excellent choice for anyone keeping a close eye on their diet.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegan and vegetarian cooks can prepare fried plantains with a clear conscience. The dish contains no animal products whatsoever and is entirely plant-based. To ring the changes, try adding different spices or herbs to the finished slices. A pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder lends real depth of flavour.
More tips and tricks
To make sure your fried plantains turn out perfectly, choose the right oil and heat it thoroughly. If the oil is not hot enough, the plantains soak it up and end up far less crisp. Another useful tip is to rest the slices on kitchen paper straight after frying to draw off any excess oil. Experiment with the thickness of your slices too, until you find the consistency you like best.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Fried plantains are a flexible dish that adapts easily to different palates. If you would like a sweeter version, reach for riper, yellow plantains with a higher sugar content. Various dips and sauces work beautifully alongside them — a spoonful of Sauce Tomate Aux Legumes is particularly good. Try a few combinations until you land on your own favourite.
Ingredient substitutions
For the more adventurous cook, there are alternatives to the classic ingredients. In place of plantains you could use a firm, waxy potato or even sweet potato, much as you would for Croquettes De Patates Douces. For frying, coconut oil or olive oil will introduce their own subtle flavour notes. Give your creativity free rein and discover new variations.
Drink pairing ideas
Fried plantains go remarkably well with a wide range of drinks. A refreshing lemonade or a fruit spritzer balances their gentle sweetness nicely, and a chilled glass of Jus De Bissap is a classic local match. For something heartier, consider a light beer or a fruity wine. Remember that your choice will also depend on whatever sides you serve alongside the plantains.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can lift the whole experience considerably. Serve the fried plantains in an attractive bowl or on a stylish plate, garnished with fresh herbs or a wedge of lime. A small dish of dipping sauce alongside adds another inviting element. Pay attention to colour and texture in the arrangement to make the dish look as good as it tastes.
A bit of history
Fried plantains originate in Burkina Faso and reflect the wider culinary culture of West Africa. Plantains are a staple across many African countries and are prepared in countless ways, from mash to porridge. The fried version is especially popular because it is quick to make and offers a delicious way to enjoy the fruit’s nutrients. This tradition has been passed down through generations and remains a fixture of Burkinabè cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Fried Plantains
Fried plantains are a tasty and versatile speciality from Burkina Faso. With their perfect balance of crisp texture and mild flavour, they work equally well as a side dish or a snack in their own right. Preparation is straightforward and leaves plenty of room to adapt the recipe to your own preferences. Whether for a celebratory meal or a quiet evening in, these plantains are always a good call.
