🔥 Kelewele Recipe (Ghanaian Spicy Fried Plantains)
Kelewele is one of Ghana’s most beloved street foods made from ripe plantains seasoned with a flavorful mix of spices and fried until perfectly caramelized. This quick and easy snack is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and perfect as a side dish or appetizer.
📝 Ingredients
- 3 ripe plantains (yellow with some black spots)
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes
- ½ tsp ground cloves (optional but authentic)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
👩🍳 How to Make Kelewele
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into small cubes or diagonal slices.
Step 2: Make the Spice Marinade
In a bowl, mix:
- Ginger
- Cayenne pepper
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
- Ground cloves
- Salt
Toss the plantain pieces in this mixture until well coated.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry the marinated plantains on medium heat until golden brown and caramelized.
Step 4: Drain & Serve
Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot!
🌟 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with peanuts/groundnuts for a traditional Ghanaian combination.
- Pair with Jollof Rice, Rice and Beans, or Grilled Chicken.
- Enjoy as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer.
❓ FAQs About Kelewele
1. Can I bake Kelewele instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
2. Can I use green plantains?
No—Kelewele tastes best with ripe, sweet plantains.
3. How do I stop Kelewele from getting soggy?
Fry on medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.
4. Can I make it ahead of time?
You can marinate plantains ahead, but fry just before serving.
5. Is Kelewele vegan?
Yes! It is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
🍽️ Similar Recipes You May Like
- Fried Plantain Chips
- Caribbean Sweet Fried Plantains (Maduros)
- African Puff Puff
- Jollof Rice
- Ghanaian Peanut Soup
- Coconut Fried Shrimp
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

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