
Sweet Banana Fritter
Global • halal_safe
How to Make Sweet Banana Fritter (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sweet Banana Fritter, known locally as 'Pisang Goreng Manis', is a beloved Malaysian snack enjoyed across the country from bustling street markets to family kitchens. The dish highlights Malaysia’s rich multicultural cuisine, blending influences from Malay, Chinese, and Indian culinary traditions. Ripe bananas are coated in a light batter infused with a hint of pandan and coconut (santan), then lightly fried until golden. This healthy version prioritizes wholesome ingredients and mindful preparation to suit calorie-conscious eaters, all while preserving the authentic taste and nostalgic charm that makes pisang goreng a staple of Malaysian teatime. The sweet aroma of banana melds with the subtle fragrance of pandan leaves—a local favorite—creating an irresistible treat. Malaysians often savor this snack with afternoon tea ('minum petang'), especially during family gatherings or festive occasions. By using heart-healthy oils and wholegrain flour, this recipe offers a lighter take on tradition, making it suitable for modern lifestyles yet deeply rooted in local heritage.
Ingredients(for 2 medium banana fritters per serving)
- 4 medium Ripe bananas (Pisang Raja or Pisang Awak preferred)
- 1/2 cup Whole wheat flour (Substitute for all-purpose for added fiber)
- 1/4 cup Rice flour (For extra crispiness)
- 1/2 tsp Baking powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 small Pandan leaf (Daun pandan, finely sliced or blended) - optional
- 1/3 cup Santan (coconut milk) (Light santan preferred)
- 2-3 tbsp Water (Adjust for batter consistency)
- 2 cups Neutral cooking oil (For shallow or air frying (e.g., canola, sunflower))
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar (Optional for enhanced sweetness) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Peel and cut the bananas in half lengthwise for easy frying. Set aside.
3 minutes
Use Pisang Raja or Pisang Awak for authentic flavor and firm texture.
- 2
In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, rice flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
2 minutes
Rice flour ensures a crispier fritter—don't skip it!
- 3
Add santan (coconut milk), water, and finely sliced pandan leaf to the dry ingredients. Whisk to form a smooth, thick batter.
5 minutes
A touch of pandan gives a beautiful aroma, typical in Malaysian sweets.
- 4
Heat neutral oil in a pan over medium heat. Oil should be about 2 cm deep for shallow frying.
4 minutes
Test oil temperature with a small drop of batter—it should sizzle but not burn.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing whole wheat flour and light santan makes these banana fritters lower in calories and higher in fiber than traditional versions. Bananas are naturally sweet, reducing the need for added sugar. Shallow frying or air frying keeps fat content in check, making this classic Malaysian treat a balanced choice for weight watchers, vegetarians, and those seeking a wholesome snack without sacrificing authentic flavor.
This Sweet Banana Fritter recipe is packed with potassium and dietary fiber from ripe bananas, supporting heart health and digestion. Whole wheat flour adds complex carbohydrates, vitamins B and E, and extra fiber compared to regular flour. Coconut milk (santan) provides healthy fats in moderation, while rice flour keeps the fritters crisp without excess oil absorption. Using shallow frying or air frying further reduces unhealthy fats. The batter is lightly sweetened, making this snack suitable for calorie-conscious eaters.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use firm, ripe Malaysian bananas for the best texture and sweetness.
- 💡Tip 2: Blending pandan leaf with coconut milk intensifies the aroma.
- 💡Tip 3: Fry in small batches for even cooking and less oil absorption.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, refrigerate and reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 115.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32.0 g |
| Total Fat | 7.5 g |
| Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugars | 13.0 g |
| Sodium | 80.0 mg |
| Potassium | 220.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 20.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 6.0 mg |
| Calcium | 14.0 mg |
| Iron | 0.7 mg |
| Magnesium | 22.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.2 mg |
| Phosphorus | 35.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 µg |
| Folate | 18.0 µg |





