Banana Cue Recipe: Easy Filipino Street Snack

The banana cue recipe is one of my all-time favorite Filipino street snacks that I tried during a trip to Manila. The first time I tasted it, I was amazed by how simple yet incredibly satisfying it was. The golden caramelized coating and the soft texture of the banana created a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch.

After trying it for myself, I decided to make it at home and to my surprise, it turned out just as delicious! This recipe is not only unique but also comforting. The aroma of fried bananas coated with brown sugar fills the kitchen with warmth and sweetness, making it an irresistible treat for all ages.

Tracing the Roots of the Banana Cue Recipe

Banana cue is a popular Filipino snack that reflects the country’s love for simple, flavorful street food. The name comes from “banana” and “barbecue,” although it’s not grilled but deep-fried. It originated from the Philippines during the post-war era when street vendors started frying saba bananas (a type of plantain) with sugar to sell as an affordable snack. Today, banana cue is still one of the most beloved street foods, enjoyed by both locals and visitors for its nostalgic and comforting taste.

What is Banana Cue?

Banana cue is a Filipino delicacy made from deep-fried ripe saba bananas coated in caramelized sugar. It’s often served on bamboo skewers, just like barbecue which is why it got the name “banana cue.” This snack is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a rich, caramel-like coating that gives it its signature taste. It’s a perfect balance of texture and flavor, ideal for anyone who loves sweet and traditional snacks.

Top Reasons to Try This Filipino Snack

You should definitely try this recipe because it’s simple, affordable, and perfect for beginners. You only need a few basic ingredients, and the cooking process takes less than 20 minutes. It’s a great way to experience authentic Filipino flavors in your own kitchen. Plus, you can easily adjust the sweetness according to your taste making it a versatile dessert or afternoon snack for the whole family.

Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start making your banana cue, make sure you have the following tools ready:

1. Deep frying pan or wok for frying the bananas evenly.
2. Tongs to turn the bananas safely while frying.
3. Slotted spoon for removing the bananas from the oil.
4. Bamboo skewers –or serving the banana cue the traditional way.
5. Mixing bowl to toss the bananas in sugar if needed.
6. Paper towels for draining excess oil.

Having these tools ready will make the process smoother and safer.

Ingredients of Banana Cue

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Filipino snack:

• 6 pieces of ripe saba bananas (or plantains)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 cups cooking oil (for deep frying)
• Optional: a pinch of salt for contrast
• Optional: white sugar (if you prefer a lighter caramel coating)

These are minimal ingredients but they create an incredibly tasty result. You can easily find them in local grocery stores or Asian markets.

The Complete Process of Making Banana Cue Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare your banana cue with minimal ingredients at home:

1. Prepare the bananas:
    Peel the saba bananas and set them aside. Make sure they are ripe but firm this gives the perfect soft texture after frying.
   
2. Heat the oil:
    In a deep frying pan or wok, heat the oil over medium flame. You can test the oil by dropping a small bit of sugar if it bubbles, it’s ready.
   
3. Add sugar to the oil:
    Once the oil is hot, slowly sprinkle the brown sugar into the pan. Allow it to melt slightly before adding the bananas. This creates a caramel base for coating.
   
4. Fry the bananas:
    Add the peeled bananas into the pan and fry them, turning occasionally with tongs to ensure even cooking. The sugar will stick to the bananas and form a crispy, caramelized layer.
   
5. Optional step – How to make banana cue with white sugar:
    If you prefer a lighter caramel flavor, replace brown sugar with white sugar. It creates a slightly different texture but is equally tasty.
   
6. Remove and drain:
    Once the bananas are golden brown and fully coated, remove them using a slotted spoon. Place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
   
7. Skewer and serve:
    Insert each banana into a bamboo stick while still warm. This gives the traditional street-food presentation.And that’s it your simple banana cue for beginners is ready to enjoy!

Nutrition Information of Banana Cue

Here’s the approximate nutrition breakdown per serving (1 skewer):

• Calories: 200–230 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 5g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

It’s a sweet snack that provides quick energy, making it ideal as a mid-day treat.

How to Serve This Recipe

Banana cue is best served warm. You can serve it as an afternoon merienda (snack) with a cup of tea or coffee. For a modern twist, drizzle a bit of melted chocolate or add shredded coconut on top. If you’re serving at a party, arrange them on a platter with skewers for an authentic street-style presentation.

Benefits of This Recipe

Even though it’s a dessert, banana cue offers a few surprising benefits:

• Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamin B6, which support heart health.
• It’s a quick source of energy great for a mid-day boost.
• It uses minimal ingredients and can be made at home easily.
• A comforting snack that helps satisfy sweet cravings without artificial flavors.

FAQs

1. What is banana cue made of?
 Banana cue is made from ripe saba bananas that are deep-fried and coated with caramelized brown sugar.

2. Can I use plantains instead of saba bananas?
 Yes! If saba is not available, ripe plantains are a great substitute.

3. How can I make banana cue less sweet?
 Simply reduce the amount of sugar or drain the caramel earlier during cooking.

4. Is banana cue healthy?
 While it’s a fried snack, it provides some nutrients from bananas just enjoy it in moderation.

5. Can I bake banana cue instead of frying?
 Yes, you can bake it at 375°F for about 15 minutes to reduce oil usage. It gives a lighter texture but similar flavor.

Conclusion

The banana cue recipe is more than just a Filipino street snack it’s a delightful reminder of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re making it for the first time or reliving old memories, this treat brings comfort, sweetness, and joy to every bite. Try making it at home and enjoy the authentic taste of the Philippines in your own kitchen!