Zitumbuwa (Malawian Banana Fritters)

Name: Zitumbuwa (Malawian Banana Fritters)
Total time: 900 s
Yield: Yields 15 - 20 cakes depending on size
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 3 large ripe bananas; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 egg (optional); 1 cup milk (or water); 3-4 cups granmil (corn that has been processed by washing, dehuling, and milling); Pinch salt; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp bicarbonate soda (optional); Oil for deep frying

Bianca Mwale @bianca_eatsy

Zomba, Malawi

Growing up, we had a housemaid who was famous for making us some delicious zitumbuwa; sweet banana fritters loved by the whole family. Every Sunday, we would share this special treat, made with love and tradition, bringing joy to us all.

Traditionally, zitumbuwa are made with mgaiwa, a whole-grain cornmeal that includes the bran and germ, making it more nutritious and slightly coarser. For my version, I used granmeal, a semi-refined cornmeal with a fine texture and lighter color. Now, you can enjoy a taste of magic with this simple recipe that I have adapted to fit modern times and ingredient accessibility; accomodating my enthusiasm and desire for something different. I am letting bananas shine for this week's second #GlobalApron submission. Enjoy!

Bianca Mwale @bianca_eatsy

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Ingredients

15 minutes

Yields 15 - 20 cakes depending on size

3large ripe bananas
1/2 cupsugar
1egg (optional)
1 cupmilk (or water)
3-4 cupsgranmil (corn that has been processed by washing, dehuling, and milling)
Pinchsalt
1 tspbaking powder
1/4 tspbicarbonate soda (optional)
Oil for deep frying

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Steps

15 minutes

1

In a bowl, mash bananas and thoroughly whisk in the sugar, milk, and egg
2

Add the cornmeal, baking powder, bicarbonate soda (if using), and salt. Mix with a wooden spoon to form a thick, dough-like batter that remains slightly soft and light for frying
3

Heat oil in a shallow pan but do not get smoking hot, just hot enough to sizzle when a wooden spoon is dipped in
4

Wet your hands and form fragile, wobbly batter balls, adjusting the size as needed. Place each ball on your palm and gently flatten it with your other hand. Immediately place each disk into the oil to fry, ensuring not to crowd the pan
5

Fry until golden on each side
6

Drain on paper towels and enjoy with a cup of tea