As I sift through bustling memories of street vendors, the aroma of sizzling Maruya wraps around me like a warm hug. These Crispy Filipino Banana Fritters, made from Saba bananas, are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a quick snack or an afternoon treat. What I adore about this easy recipe is that it invites even the busiest home chefs to whip up something delicious without the fuss. Whether you choose to indulge in their sweet simplicity or explore variations like a sprinkle of cinnamon, Maruya is sure to become a favorite for everyone to gather around. Curious about how to bring these delightful bites to life? Let’s dive into the magic of making them from scratch!

Why You’ll Crave These Banana Fritters

Crispy Delight: The first bite delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by the sweet, warm banana flavor that makes Maruya irresistible.

Quick and Easy: This vibrant recipe requires minimal prep time—perfect for a snack craving that can’t wait!

Versatile Flavors: Customize to your taste! Try the Choco-Banana Variation or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra warmth.

Nostalgic Experience: Every batch takes you back to lively Filipino street stalls. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent take!

Crowd-Pleaser: These fritters are sure to impress guests at gatherings, sparking joy in every bite. Everyone will be asking for seconds!

Gluten-Free Option: Easily adapt the recipe to meet dietary needs by using gluten-free flour, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious treat!

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get frying!

Maruya (Banana Fritters) Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create these irresistible Maruya!

For the Batter

Saba Banana – Ripe but firm, peeled; this variety brings the perfect level of sweetness and moisture.
Flour – The base for texture; any flour works, but gluten-free flour is perfect for a gluten-free version!
Cornstarch – Enhances crispiness and helps achieve that light, airy texture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; adjust to your taste.
Salt – Balances the sweetness; feel free to adjust or leave it out.
Baking Powder – Adds leavening, contributing to a wonderfully light fritter.
Water or Milk – Helps combine the dry ingredients for the batter; using milk adds richness.

For Frying

Cooking Oil – Essential for the crispy exterior; vegetable or canola oil works great!

For Coating

Sugar (for coating) – Gives the Maruya a sweet touch on the outside; adjust based on your preference.

With these simple ingredients at hand, you’re ready to bring the magic of Maruya to life! Enjoy this delightful treat, and let the sweet aromas fill your kitchen.

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

Step 1: Mash Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, begin by peeling and mashing 2–3 ripe but firm Saba bananas until they break into small pieces, ensuring they remain chunky rather than fully mushy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The mashed bananas will provide a delightful sweetness and moisture to your Maruya (Banana Fritters).

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, 1–2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This dry mix should be well combined, taking about 2 minutes. The cornstarch will help achieve that desired crispiness when frying your fritters.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour 1/2 cup of water or milk into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t worry about tiny lumps; this should take about 1-2 minutes. This creates a batter that will coat the bananas, leading to the perfect texture for your Maruya.

Step 4: Incorporate Bananas
Fold the mashed bananas into the batter using a spatula until fully integrated—about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to overmix, as you want some of the banana pieces to remain intact, adding texture to your delicious Maruya (Banana Fritters).

Step 5: Heat Oil
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of cooking oil over medium heat until hot, around 350°F (175°C). To test, drop a small piece of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown outer layer.

Step 6: Fry the Fritters
Carefully scoop 2–3 tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, gently flattening them into rounds. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep them spaced apart in the pan to ensure even cooking without crowding.

Step 7: Coat in Sugar
Once fried to a beautiful golden color, remove the Maruya (Banana Fritters) from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. While they are still warm, dredge them in granulated sugar, coating both sides for that delightful sweetness. Serve immediately for optimal crispiness.

Expert Tips for Maruya (Banana Fritters)

Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; test by adding a small piece of batter. It should sizzle immediately, preventing greasy fritters.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the mashed bananas into the batter—overmixing can lead to tough fritters instead of the light, airy texture you want.
Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; fry until golden brown on both sides, adjusting the heat to prevent burning for perfect Maruya.
Sugar Coating: Dredge your fritters in sugar while they’re still warm; this helps the sugar stick and creates a delightful sweet crust.
Fritters Storage: Enjoy them fresh for best texture! If you need to store, keep in an airtight container, reheating in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Filipino Maruya (Banana Fritters) are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save precious time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and mashing the Saba bananas. Combine them and refrigerate in an airtight container to prevent oxidation, which helps maintain the vibrant banana flavor. When you’re ready to fry, simply stir in the wet ingredients and follow the cooking instructions as usual. For optimum freshness and crispiness, it’s best to fry the fritters just before serving, ensuring they have that golden, crispy exterior that everyone loves!

Storage Tips for Maruya (Banana Fritters)

Room Temperature: Enjoy Maruya fresh for the best taste and texture; ideally, eat them within a couple of hours for maximum crispness.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps prevent sogginess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked Maruya in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They will last up to 1 month.

Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat the Maruya (Banana Fritters) in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes.

Maruya (Banana Fritters) Variations

Feel free to make these delightful fritters your own with fun twists that elevate their flavor and appeal.

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk for almond or oat milk to keep it vegan without losing richness in flavor.
Choco-Banana Variation: Add chocolate chips or dust with cocoa powder for a delightful chocolatey touch. This gives a sweet twist that there’s no denying!
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Mix cinnamon into your sugar for an aromatic coating that adds warmth and depth. A little spice dances beautifully with the inherent sweetness of the bananas.
Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to introduce a satisfying crunch amidst the soft banana. This offers a delightful contrast in texture!
Sweet Potato Substitute: Swap out Saba bananas with sweet potatoes for a unique and incredibly sweet version that’s also nutritious. The sweetness shines through while providing a fun variation.
Savory Spin: Add a pinch of grated cheese such as cheddar or parmesan for an unexpected savory depth—it’s a playful take that can turn heads at any gathering!
Maple Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey after frying to enhance the sweetness further. This elevates the treat to a feeling of indulgence!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes to the batter for those who crave a bit of spice in sweet. This contrasts the sweetness of the banana beautifully!

Let your creativity flourish and explore these variations to truly personalize your Maruya experience. You could even explore the delectable combo of these fritters with a side of homemade vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic touch!

What to Serve with Crispy Filipino Maruya (Banana Fritters)

Elevate your snack time experience with these delectable pairings that perfectly complement crunchy and sweet Maruya.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, rich creaminess creates a delightful contrast to the warm, crispy fritters.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright, tangy medley of seasonal fruits adds refreshing zing, balancing out the sweetness of the fritters.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzling of honey enhances the sweetness and adds a sticky richness that will please your taste buds.
Coconut Milk Sauce: Serve warm fritters with a drizzle of creamy coconut milk for a luscious tropical twist that complements their crunch.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Elevate your Maruya by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a cozy, aromatic touch that warms each bite.
Chocolate Dip: Melted chocolate or a chocolate sauce provides a decadent dunking experience, inviting indulgence in every crispy morsel.
Fresh Mint Tea: The refreshing herbal notes of mint tea are soothing and clean, enhancing the sweet flavors of the fritters.
Mango Smoothie: This fruity concoction will add a velvety finish to your snack, creating a harmonious tropical theme.
Lemonade: A glass of refreshing, tart lemonade will uplift the flavors and cleanse the palate beautifully.

Enjoy mixing and matching these delightful accompaniments to create an incredible snack spread that everyone will cherish!

Maruya (Banana Fritters) Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for Maruya?
Absolutely! For the best results, use ripe but firm Saba bananas. They provide the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture for your fritters. If you can’t find Saba, plantains can be a substitute, though they will slightly alter the flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover Maruya?
To keep your Maruya fresh, store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their flavor while preventing them from becoming soggy! If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them.

Can I freeze Maruya (Banana Fritters)?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first, allow the cooked Maruya to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month.

What can I do if my fritters turn out greasy?
If your Maruya ends up greasy, it might be due to low oil temperature during frying. To avoid this, heat your oil to about 350°F (175°C) before adding the batter. A quick test is to drop a small piece of batter into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go! Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to greasy fritters.

Are these fritters suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Very! You can easily make Maruya gluten-free by substituting regular flour with gluten-free flour. Always check the packaging to ensure the flour is certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination, and then you can enjoy this delightful treat without worry!

How long do Maruya stay crispy after frying?
While best enjoyed fresh, Maruya retains some crispiness for about 2 hours when stored at room temperature. If saving for later, refrigerate them as mentioned for optimal flavor, but be sure to reheat properly to regain that delightful crunch.