Sugar-Free Jamaican Festival
Indulge in the irresistible charm of Sugar-Free Jamaican Festival, a healthier take on the beloved Caribbean side dish. This recipe swaps added sugar for the natural sweetness of ripe plantain, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and guilt-free. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornmeal gives these golden beauties their signature crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Quick and simple to prepare, these sugar-free Jamaican festivals come together in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal pairing for jerk dishes, spicy curries, or even as a standalone snack. Whether you’re seeking a wholesome twist on a classic or exploring new culinary horizons, this recipe delivers authentic island vibes without the added sugar.
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Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 medium ripe plantain
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 cups vegetable oil
Directions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
Step 2
Peel and mash the ripe plantain in a separate bowl until smooth. The plantain should be very ripe to ensure maximum natural sweetness.
Step 3
Add the mashed plantain to the dry ingredients along with 3 tablespoons of water. Mix with your hands or a spatula until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable, adding a little more flour if necessary.
Step 4
Knead the dough briefly on a floured surface until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a sausage-like shape, about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick.
Step 6
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
Step 7
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the shaped dough pieces into the oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Step 8
Fry for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
Step 9
Remove the fried festivals from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Step 10
Serve warm as a delightful side dish or snack, perfect alongside your favorite Caribbean meal.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1149.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 5455.4 |
| Total Fat 429.0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 61.1g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 268.8g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2554.1mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 412.1g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 24.5g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 36.7g | |
| Protein 41.6g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 45.3mg | 0% |
| Iron 17.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1515.3mg | 0% |
Source of Calories