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Haitian beignets are the first thing I make when someone in the family craves something warm and festive. The sweet smell of bananas and nutmeg in the house immediately brings everyone to the kitchen ready for a taste. These golden bites are perfect whether you are celebrating Carnival or cozying up for the holidays.
This recipe has always been a celebration dish for us. I cannot count how many times we made them out of pure nostalgia or to bring a taste of Haiti to a homesick friend.
Ingredients
- Mashed ripe bananas: for natural sweetness and a moist texture Choose banans with plenty of brown spots for best flavor
- All purpose flour: gives structure and keeps the beignets fluffy Use fresh flour for light results
- Baking soda: is the secret to their gentle rise and airy inside Check yours is fresh by testing with a splash of vinegar first
- Granulated sugar: adds just the right touch of sweetness for dusting and in the mix Only use fine granulated sugar for a smooth finish
- Vanilla extract: brings warmth and enhances banana flavor Pure vanilla is best if you can find it
- Ground nutmeg: offers classic Haitian aroma Freshly grated is best
- Carnation milk: provides rich creaminess for best texture You can use water but evaporated milk gives a delicate richness
- Egg: binds everything together and gives beignets a tender crumb Use a large egg for the correct amount of mixture
- Almond extract: gives these beignets their special fragrance Only a small amount is needed so measure carefully
- Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness Use flaky or fine kosher salt for easy mixing
- Ground cinnamon: is optional but adds cozy warmth Fresh cinnamon is strongly recommended for aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mash the Bananas:
- Use a fork or food processor to mash your ripe bananas until completely smooth Any chunks will affect the texture so mash thoroughly until no large pieces remain
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Add the sugar milk egg salt baking soda nutmeg cinnamon vanilla and almond extract to the mashed bananas Whisk everything together until the mixture is well combined and smells fragrant
- Incorporate Flour:
- Gently fold in the all purpose flour until just combined Overmixing can make the beignets tough The batter should be thick but not dense and smooth with no dry spots
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour about two cups of oil into a large frying pan Heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit using a kitchen thermometer for accuracy Never let it drop below 325 degrees or your beignets will absorb too much oil and become greasy
- Scoop and Fry:
- Using an ice cream scoop drop dollops of batter into the hot oil Fry in batches and do not overcrowd the pan Let each piece cook for two minutes on each side or until deep golden brown
- Drain and Cool:
- Remove the beignets from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towel Let them cool for at least ten minutes so the residual heat finishes the cooking inside
- Finish and Serve:
- Dust generously with granulated sugar while still slightly warm This helps the sugar stick and gives them that classic festive look
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My favorite part about these beignets is the heady fragrance of nutmeg and banana that fills the kitchen. Every year during Carnival my uncle would fry batch after batch and the sweet scent would draw neighbors and family to our door before we could even get the sugar on top.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To freshen them up, a quick pass in a warm oven will revive their crisp exterior. Avoid refrigeration as it can make them soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy free option simply use water instead of canned milk the result will be a touch lighter but still delicious. If you are out of almond extract try a splash of rum for a hint of grown up warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these with fresh fruit and tea for a cozy breakfast or bring out a big basket to end any celebration on a sweet note. The beignets are also wonderful with a drizzle of honey or dipped into spiced hot chocolate.
Cultural Context
Haitian beignets are a beloved street food and family treat especially during festive times. Every region puts their own spin on the recipe but bananas are almost always the star. They remind us of the importance of gathering and sharing simple pleasures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What makes Haitian beignets unique?
Haitian beignets feature mashed bananas and a blend of spices, giving them a distinct flavor and light texture unlike traditional beignets.
- → Which oil is best for frying Haitian beignets?
You can use peanut, canola, or vegetable oil. Ensure the oil temperature stays between 325°F and 350°F for even frying.
- → How should the banana be prepared?
Bananas should be mashed until smooth and free of lumps for an even, tender crumb throughout each beignet.
- → Can I add extra spices?
Yes, ground cinnamon is optional and can be added for extra warmth and aroma alongside nutmeg and vanilla.
- → How do I serve Haitian beignets?
Serve them warm and dusted with sugar. Let them drain briefly on paper towels to remove excess oil before plating.