Kele Wele
Experience the irresistible flavors of West Africa with Kele Wele, a spicy and savory fried plantain dish that's perfect as a snack or side. This beloved Ghanaian recipe features perfectly ripe plantains coated in a vibrant blend of ginger, garlic, onion, cayenne pepper, and aromatic spices like ground cloves and paprika. The plantains are fried to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior with a tender, caramelized center. Infused with bold, zesty flavors and a hint of heat, Kele Wele is easy to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. Serve it warm and elevate the dish with a garnish of crushed peanuts for an extra layer of crunch and richness. Whether enjoyed as a standalone treat or a flavorful accompaniment, Kele Wele is sure to impress with its unique taste and vibrant character.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 pieces ripe plantains
- 2 tablespoons (grated) ginger
- 2 cloves (minced) garlic
- 0.5 medium (finely chopped or blended) onion
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (for frying) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Peel the plantains and slice them into bite-sized cubes or diagonal pieces, about 1/2 inch thick.
In a blender or food processor, combine the grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped onion, cayenne pepper, ground cloves, paprika, salt, and water. Blend into a smooth paste.
Transfer the paste to a large mixing bowl and add the sliced plantains. Mix well to coat the plantains evenly with the spice mixture. Let the plantains marinate for about 5 minutes.
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, you can test the heat by dropping a small piece of plantain into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
Carefully add the marinated plantains to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-6 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until the plantains are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried plantains and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Repeat the frying process with the remaining plantains.
Serve the Kele Wele warm as a snack or side dish. Optionally, garnish with crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1395 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 139.9 g | 179% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.2 g | 101% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 89.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 655 mg | 28% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 52.7 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.1 g | ||
| Protein | 2.2 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 21 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 0.9 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 765 mg | 16% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
