As I took my first bite of Maruya, a sweet and crispy Filipino delight, I was instantly transported to the vibrant street markets of the Philippines. These fried banana fritters, made with ripe saba bananas, are not just a delicacy but a beloved afternoon snack that brings a warm sense of nostalgia. The beauty of this Maruya (Banana Fritters) recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility; it’s quick to whip up with just a handful of ingredients, making it an easy choice for any home chef. Plus, get ready to wow friends and family with its wonderful flavors, which can be easily customized! Whether you’re savoring them as a dessert or a midday treat, these fritters are sure to put a smile on your face. Curious about how to create this delightful crunchy goodness? Let’s dive in!

Why is Maruya a Delightful Treat?

Simplicity, this recipe is effortless and perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. Deliciously Sweet, the ripe saba bananas bring out a natural sweetness that’s intensified by the light dusting of sugar. Versatile Options allow you to add your favorite spices, like cinnamon or cocoa, for a unique twist. Perfect for Sharing, whether you enjoy them with coffee or as a dessert, these fritters are sure to impress family and friends. Plus, with the potential to make them gluten-free by swapping in suitable flour, anyone can relish this delightful snack! Want more tips on elevating your snack game?

Maruya (Banana Fritters) Ingredients

For the Batter

Saba Bananas – The star of this recipe; use ripe yet firm bananas for the best flavor and texture.
Cooking Oil – Essential for frying; opt for high-smoke-point oils like canola or vegetable for perfect frying results.
Sugar – Adds a sweet finish to the fried Maruya; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
Flour – Provides structure to the batter; can be substituted with gluten-free flour if desired.
Cornstarch – Helps to achieve that crispy exterior everyone loves!
Granulated Sugar (for batter) – Sweetens the batter mix; just the right touch for delightful fritters.
Salt – Balances the sweetness nicely; adjust or even omit if preferred.
Baking Powder – Gives the batter a slight lift for a fluffier texture.
Water or Milk – Combines with dry ingredients to create a thicker batter; using milk will enhance the overall flavor.

For Serving

Powdered Sugar – Optional readymade garnish that not only looks beautiful but adds an extra touch of sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream – Add this for an indulgent dessert option, making your Maruya even more delightful!

Now you’re all set to make these fabulous Maruya (Banana Fritters) that will have everyone coming back for more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maruya (Banana Fritters)

Step 1: Prepare Bananas
Begin by taking your ripe saba bananas and either mash them in a large bowl until they are broken into small pieces or cut them into slices or cubes. Aim for a texture that’s chunky but not too mushy, allowing the fritters to hold their shape. Set aside the prepared bananas as you move on to making the batter.

Step 2: Make Batter
In a separate mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients together until they’re well blended. Gradually pour in water or milk, mixing until the batter is just combined; it’s perfectly fine if there are a few lumps, as smoothness isn’t necessary for Maruya.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Fold the mashed bananas into the batter, ensuring they are evenly integrated but taking care not to overmix. You want the bananas to remain slightly chunky, adding pockets of sweetness to your Maruya (Banana Fritters). The mixture should be thick but manageable, ready for frying.

Step 4: Heat Oil
In a frying pan, pour in enough cooking oil to cover the base and heat it over medium heat until it shimmers, usually around 350°F (175°C). To ensure the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into it—if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go! This crucial step ensures that your Maruya becomes irresistibly crispy.

Step 5: Fry Maruya
Using a ladle, scoop portions of the banana batter into the hot oil, ensuring each scoop flattens slightly but retains some thickness. Fry each piece for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown on one side, then gently flip them to cook the other side. Keep an eye on them to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior.

Step 6: Finish
Once golden brown on both sides, remove the fried Maruya using tongs and place them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While they’re still warm, dredge the Maruya in granulated sugar for a delightful touch of sweetness. Serve them hot to enjoy the wonderful flavors and textures of these delicious Filipino banana fritters.

Storage Tips for Maruya (Banana Fritters)

Room Temperature: Store leftover Maruya in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Fridge: If you want to prolong their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week in a sealed container, but they may lose some crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled Maruya in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.

Reheating: To restore their crispy texture, reheat the Maruya in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, making for a delightful snack!

Make Ahead Options

These Maruya (Banana Fritters) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients together, then combining with the mashed bananas just before frying. Alternatively, if you want to save even more time, you can slice the ripe saba bananas and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality and prevent browning, toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice. When ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry the Maruya until golden brown, and you’ll enjoy that delightful crunch and soft center without the stress!

What to Serve with Crispy Maruya (Filipino Banana Fritters)

Indulging in these delightful banana fritters opens the door to a world of delicious pairing possibilities that elevate your snack time.

Coffee or Tea: Both beverages complement Maruya beautifully, balancing its sweetness with their aromatic warmth, perfect for an afternoon treat.
Coconut Delight: Freshly grated coconut adds a tropical flair and texture that brings out the banana’s natural sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Placing a scoop atop warm Maruya transforms them into a luscious dessert that’s hard to resist.
Mango Salsa: The bright flavors of a refreshing mango salsa provide a tangy contrast that enhances the rich fritters.
Fruit Salad: A light, colorful fruit salad brings a fresh, juicy element to your meal, making each bite a delightful experience.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Satisfy your sweet tooth by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your Maruya, resulting in a decadent treat.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Dipping each fritter in sweetened condensed milk adds an extra touch of creaminess that pairs perfectly with the crisp exterior.
Chili Sauce: For those who love a savory kick, a touch of chili sauce introduces an exciting contrast that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Maruya (Banana Fritters) Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your Maruya with these delightful variations!

Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the batter for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness.
Coconut Bliss: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the banana’s flavor.
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to add a delicious crunch and depth of flavor.
Extra Fruity: Incorporate blueberries or diced mango along with the bananas for a vibrant burst of fruity goodness.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips to the batter; the melty chocolate creates a delightful contrast with the crispy fritters.
Roll in Cinnamon Sugar: After frying, toss the warm Maruya in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for a sweet, spiced finish.
Japanese-Inspired: Try topping your Maruya with a drizzle of matcha glaze for a unique and beautifully green presentation.

By experimenting with these ideas, you’ll not only cater to different tastes but also turn a simple recipe into a crowd-pleasing staple! And if you’re interested in elevating your baking skills, check out my recipe for Delicious Apple Crumble to sweeten your afternoons even further!

Helpful Tricks for Maruya

Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding batter; properly heated oil creates a perfect crispy crust for your Maruya.
Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan to maintain optimum oil temperature, ensuring each fritter cooks evenly and crisps beautifully.
Thickness Matters: Keep the batter slightly thick when frying; if too thin, the fritters may not hold their shape and could turn soggy.
Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt for enhanced flavor in your Maruya (Banana Fritters).
Serving Style: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert twist that your friends and family will love!

Maruya (Banana Fritters) Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for Maruya?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use ripe yet firm saba bananas. These Philippine bananas have a perfect sweetness and structure that holds up beautifully in this fritter recipe. If you can’t find saba, feel free to substitute with other ripe bananas, but keep in mind that the taste might vary slightly.

How should I store leftover Maruya?
You can store leftover Maruya in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, though they may lose some crispiness. Just be sure to reheat them properly to enjoy that delightful crunch again!

Can I freeze Maruya?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the Maruya to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat directly from frozen—just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until warm and crispy.

What should I do if my Maruya come out soggy?
If your Maruya turn out soggy, don’t worry—you can still enjoy them! Make sure you’re frying them in hot oil, about 350°F (175°C). Frying in batches allows for better oil temperature, preventing them from stewing instead of frying. If they’re already cooked, try re-heating them in the oven to crisp them up again!

Are there any dietary considerations for Maruya?
Very! Maruya can be made gluten-free by swapping out regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the other ingredients, especially sugar and baking powder, are also gluten-free. Always check allergies, as some may have sensitivities to ingredients in the batter or oil used for frying.