- Why did the batter get soggy?
- Either the water wasn't cold enough, or the oil temperature was too low, causing the batter to absorb oil.
- What kind of bananas should I use?
- Plantains are traditional, but standard bananas that are ripe (spotted) but still firm work best in the US.
Pisang Goreng with Peanut Butter (Indonesian Fried Banana)
Pisang Goreng isn't just fried fruit; it's Indonesia's national snack. The secret to the perfect fritter lies in the batter: a mix of rice flour and ice-cold carbonated water creates a shatteringly crisp shell that stays crunchy for hours. The savory, creamy peanut butter provides a brilliant contrast to the hot, sweet banana.
Ingredients
4
large
Ripe but firm Bananas
3/4
cup
All-Purpose Flour
1/3
cup
Rice Flour
2
tbsp
Sugar
1
tsp
Vanilla Extract
1
pinch
Salt
2/3
cup
Ice-cold Sparkling Water (Club Soda)
4
tbsp
Creamy Peanut Butter
2
cups
Oil for frying
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Deep skillet or pot for frying
- Whisk
- Paper towels
Allergen Information
Wheat
Peanuts
Instructions
1
✓
Whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, rice flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
Tip: Rice flour lacks gluten, ensuring the crust is extra crispy rather than chewy.
2
✓
Add the vanilla and gradually whisk in the ice-cold sparkling water. Mix until smooth; the consistency should be like thick pancake batter.
Tip: Cold water inhibits gluten development, while carbonation aerates the batter for a tempura-like lightness.
3
✓
Heat the oil to approx. 350-375°F. (Test by dropping a bit of batter; if it sizzles and floats immediately, it's ready).
Tip: If the oil is too cool, the fritters will be greasy.
4
✓
Peel the bananas and cut them in half lengthwise or crosswise. Dip them into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
Tip: Dusting the bananas lightly with flour before dipping can help the batter adhere better.
5
✓
Fry in the hot oil until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). Transfer to paper towels to drain.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan, as this drops the oil temperature.
6
✓
Spread peanut butter over the top while they are still hot, allowing it to melt slightly.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 4 large Ripe but firm Bananas
- 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/3 cup Rice Flour
- 2 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 pinch Salt
- 2/3 cup Ice-cold Sparkling Water (Club Soda)
- 4 tbsp Creamy Peanut Butter
- 2 cups Oil for frying