Banana Cue: Filipino Caramelized Fried Bananas
Banana Cue: Filipino Caramelized Fried Bananas
Contents
Banana cue is a classic Filipino street food made by deep-frying saba bananas and coating them in caramelized brown sugar. It’s named for its skewered presentation (like barbecue) and features a crunchy, sweet exterior with a soft, warm banana center.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 6 saba bananas (or 1 kg if sold by weight), peeled
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups cooking oil (for deep frying)
- 6 bamboo skewers (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat (170–180°C/340–350°F).
- Add brown sugar to the oil, stirring until it dissolves and begins to caramelize (2–3 minutes).
- Carefully add peeled bananas to the hot oil. Fry for 2 minutes without stirring to let the sugar adhere.
- Gently stir the bananas to coat evenly with caramelized sugar. Continue frying until golden brown (5–7 minutes total).
- Remove bananas and drain on paper towels. Let cool for 2 minutes.
- Skewer each banana lengthwise (optional) and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Sugar technique: Source 5 adds sugar directly to the oil, while Source 4 sprinkles it over frying bananas (conflict noted).
- Substitution: If saba bananas are unavailable, use plantains (ripe but firm) or cardaba bananas.
- Texture: For extra crunch, roll cooked bananas in additional brown sugar after frying (Source 3).
- Serving: Top with crushed nuts (e.g., macadamia or peanuts) for contrast (Source 5).
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between banana cue and turon?
Banana cue is fried whole bananas with caramelized sugar, while turon wraps bananas and jackfruit in spring roll wrappers before frying.
Can I make banana cue without deep frying?
No—the dish requires deep frying to properly caramelize the sugar and cook the bananas evenly (Sources 1–5 agree).
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
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- Bibingkang Malagkit (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)
- Filipino Biko Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Sticky Rice Cake
- Brazo de Mercedes Recipe