National Dish Mauritius: Bananes Frits (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Bananes Frits, Mauritius’s irresistible fried banana fritters! Ripe bananas are dipped in a lightly sweetened batter and fried to a golden crisp, capturing the unmistakable flavour of this tropical island in every bite. Simple to make and utterly delicious, they are the perfect way to bring a little Mauritian sunshine into your kitchen — as a snack, a dessert or a sweet treat with afternoon tea.
About Bananes Frits
Bananes Frits is a much-loved national dish of Mauritius that delights locals and visitors alike. These fried bananas offer a delicious blend of sweet and savoury flavours that perfectly capture the magic of the tropical island. The bananas are prepared in a special mixture of spices and batter, which gives them their distinctive taste. Enjoy Bananes Frits as a snack or dessert and let yourself be swept away by the culinary variety of this unique island!
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 ripe bananas
- 100 g plain flour
- 50 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- Water (as needed)
- Vegetable oil (for deep-frying)
Shopping for the ingredients
To achieve the best flavour, it is important to choose the freshest ingredients. When buying the bananas, look for a yellow skin with small brown speckles, as this indicates their perfect degree of ripeness. The flour and sugar should be of good quality to guarantee an optimal frying result. Visit local markets or organic shops to find high-quality, fresh produce.
Preparing the dish
The preparation of Bananes Frits is simple but calls for a little attention. First, peel the bananas and cut them into evenly thick slices. This ensures that they fry evenly. In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Add water as needed until you have a smooth batter that clings to the banana slices.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or deep-fat fryer over a medium heat.
- Dip the banana slices into the prepared batter so they are well coated.
- Fry the bananas in small batches for about 2–3 minutes, until golden brown.
- Lift the fried bananas out with a slotted spoon and let them drain on kitchen paper.
- Serve the Bananes Frits warm and enjoy!
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Anyone avoiding gluten or lactose can easily adapt Bananes Frits. Use gluten-free flour instead of wheat flour, which works beautifully in batters. The recipe contains no dairy products, so it is naturally lactose-free as well. These adjustments make the dish enjoyable for more people without compromising its delicious taste.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Bananes Frits are naturally vegan and contain no animal products. Do make sure, however, that all the ingredients you use — particularly speciality flours or sugar — contain no animal-derived components. This dish is an excellent choice for a vegan dessert or snack that is rich in fibre and flavour. Serve the bananas with a dip such as agave syrup or a vegan ice cream for a special touch.
More tips and tricks
When making Bananes Frits, make sure the oil is at the right temperature to guarantee optimal frying. A useful tip is to dip a wooden spoon into the oil; if small bubbles rise around it, the oil has reached the right heat. Take care to fry the bananas in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan — this gives more even, crispier results, just as it does with the savoury Taro Frit.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
One wonderful aspect of Bananes Frits is the flexibility of the recipe. You can add different spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to vary the flavour. If you prefer something a little more savoury, try rolling the banana slices in a mixture of salt and pepper beforehand. These adjustments lend the dish a personal note and make it truly your own.
Ingredient substitutions
For anyone wanting to cut out sugar, there are plenty of alternatives. Use agave syrup or honey to achieve the same sweetness without refined sugar. The flour can also be replaced with almond flour or coconut flour to create a gluten-free option. Experiment with these alternatives to find out what tastes best to you!
Drink pairing ideas
Fresh, tropical drinks make the ideal companions for Bananes Frits. Try freshly pressed pineapple juice or coconut water to heighten the tropical feel. A milky, rose-scented Alouda is another island favourite that pairs beautifully with the fried bananas, while a simple lime and mint cooler offers a refreshing change. If you prefer alcohol, a tropical cocktail with a splash of rum is a delicious option.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays an important role in the enjoyment of your Bananes Frits. Serve the fried bananas on a light-coloured plate lined with a fresh banana leaf. A dusting of icing sugar or a scattering of toasted nuts adds an appealing finish. Complete the dish with a small pot of honey or a sweet sauce for dipping to make it look especially inviting.
A bit of history
Bananes Frits are not just a delicious dish but also part of the cultural identity of Mauritius. Originally prepared by the islanders, these fried bananas have become firmly established in Mauritian cuisine over the years and can now be found in many restaurants and at street stalls. The bananas represent the tropical nature of the island, and thanks to their simple preparation they have become a popular snack for locals and tourists alike. This dish links tradition with modern indulgence and lets you experience the taste of Mauritius at home.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Bananes Frits
In summary, Bananes Frits are a delicious and easy way to bring the taste of Mauritius into your own home. With just a few ingredients and an uncomplicated method, you can create a dish that is both hearty and sweet. Let the variety inspire you and adapt the recipe to your own preferences. Enjoy the fresh, tropical flavours and enrich your cooking repertoire with this wonderful dish!
