Maruya: Filipino Banana Fritters
Maruya: Filipino Banana Fritters
Contents
Maruya is a beloved Filipino snack made from ripe saba bananas coated in a light batter, deep-fried until golden brown, and sprinkled with sugar. It is a popular street food and merienda (afternoon snack) known for its simplicity and sweet flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 6 ripe saba bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 1 cup water
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Gradually add water and beaten egg to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Dip each banana slice into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Carefully place the coated bananas into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Remove the fritters from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Sprinkle generously with sugar while still warm.
- Serve immediately as a snack or dessert.
Tips and Notes
- For a crispier texture, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying.
- You can use other banana varieties like latundan or lakatan if saba bananas are unavailable.
- Serve with jackfruit slices or ice cream for a modern twist.
FAQ
What type of bananas are best for maruya?
Saba bananas are the traditional choice, but latundan or lakatan bananas can also be used.
Can maruya be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or rice flour for a gluten-free version.
Is maruya a dessert or a snack?
Maruya is typically enjoyed as a snack (merienda) but can also be served as a dessert.
Related guides
- Banana Cue: Filipino Caramelized Fried Bananas
- Bibingka (Filipino Coconut Rice Cake)
- Bibingkang Malagkit (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)
- Filipino Biko Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Sticky Rice Cake
- Brazo de Mercedes Recipe