The perfect after-lunch snack for those with a mildly sweet tooth
Kluay Tod (Thai Fried Bananas or Banana Fritters) is a popular Thai snack made by deep frying sliced bananas until they are golden brown and crispy. It is often served with sweetened condensed milk or honey for dipping. Some variations may also include a dusting of sugar or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts.
Name and etymology
Common names in Thailand: Kluay Tod, Kluai Thot, Kluai Kaek
Thai spelling: กล้วยทอด
Western names: Thai style fried bananas or banana fritters
The Thai name “Kluay Tod” means Fried Bananas; “Kluay”=banana, “Tod”=Fried.
Kluad Tod is also a popular and widely available street snack in other South East Asian countries. In Malaysia and Indonesia it is known as ‘Pisang Goreng’. In Vietnam it rocks the name ‘Chuoi Chien’.
Ingredients
Kluay Tod is made of bananas, the type that is slightly firmer and less sweet than the ones typically eaten raw, as they hold their shape better during the frying process.
Other ingredients include rice and tapioca flour, shredded coconut and a mixture of light seasonings.
Additionally, Kluay Tod is often served with sweetened condensed milk or honey for dipping. Some variations may also include a dusting of sugar or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts.
Taste
Thai fried bananas (Kluay Tod) have a sweet, slightly caramelized flavor due to the sugar in the bananas and the caramelization that occurs during frying. The texture is soft and tender on the inside with a crunchy, crispy coating on the outside.
The dipping sauce can add an additional layer of sweetness to the dish. Some people also enjoy the addition of spices or other flavorings, such as coconut or cinnamon, to the coating mixture, which can give the fried bananas a more complex flavor.
Overall, Thai fried bananas are a sweet and satisfying treat with a unique texture and flavor.
Where to buy and how to eat Kluay Tod
In Thailand, Kluay Tod is commonly served warm as street food in ready-to-eat bags either as a snack or after-lunch dessert.
Price: In my local Thai neighbourhood I used to pay anywhre between 20-30 baht per bag. However in some urban areas and restaurants the price might be higher.
Some Thai vendors and Thai restaurants, especially in touristy areas, serve Thai fried bananas with ice cream, sweet sauces, whipped cream or honey as their “exotic” Thai-style dessert option.
How to make Kluay Tod (Recipe)
Here is a basic recipe for Thai fried bananas:
Ingredients:
- 2 large bananas, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch slices
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Sweetened condensed milk or honey, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch. Gradually add the water, stirring until the mixture is smooth and thick.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, deep pot or a deep fryer to 375°F.
- Dip the banana slices in the flour mixture, coating them evenly on both sides.
- Carefully place a few of the coated banana slices in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown. Remove the fried bananas from the oil with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with the remaining banana slices.
- Serve the fried bananas hot, with sweetened condensed milk or honey for dipping, if desired. Enjoy!
Note: Be sure to use caution when frying the bananas, as the oil can be hot and may splatter. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully place the bananas in the oil and remove them when they are finished frying.
