Fried Plantain Kelewele with Spicy Ginger and Garlic Marinade

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Chunks of ripe plantains tossed in a fragrant blend of ginger, garlic, and spices, then fried to golden perfection for a sweet and spicy Ghanaian snack. This african-inspired snacks (vegan) ready in about 35 minutes blends medium ripe plantains, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic cloves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 African cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Peel 3 medium ripe plantains and cut into 1-inch cubes; place in a large bowl.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; mix well into a spicy marinade.
  3. Step 3: Add the marinade and 1 small finely chopped onion to the plantain cubes; toss thoroughly to coat evenly and let marinate for 15 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Heat 2 cups vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 350°F.
  5. Step 5: Fry the marinated plantain cubes in batches for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crisp at the edges.
  6. Step 6: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels; serve warm as a spicy snack or side dish.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Fried Plantain Kelewele with Spicy Ginger and Garlic Marinade take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Fried Plantain Kelewele with Spicy Ginger and Garlic Marinade?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Fried Plantain Kelewele with Spicy Ginger and Garlic Marinade?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Fried Plantain Kelewele with Spicy Ginger and Garlic Marinade for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Fried Plantain Kelewele with Spicy Ginger and Garlic Marinade vegan?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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