Can I use regular bananas instead of saba bananas?
While you can, saba bananas are traditionally used for turon due to their firmer texture and sweeter, slightly tangy flavor when cooked. Regular bananas may become too mushy.
DESSERT
Crispy Filipino Turon with Jackfruit and Ube Ice Cream
Experience a delightful twist on the beloved Filipino turon. This recipe features ripe saba bananas and sweet jackfruit (langka) wrapped in a crispy lumpia wrapper, then fried to golden perfection. Served alongside vibrant, creamy ube ice cream, it's a dessert that balances warm, crunchy sweetness with a cool, earthy finish.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Prepare the bananas by peeling and slicing each saba banana lengthwise into two pieces.
02
Lay a lumpia wrapper flat. Place one banana half near one edge, sprinkle with 1-2 teaspoons of brown sugar, and top with a few strips of langka.
03
Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then tightly roll from the bottom up. Seal the edge with a dab of water.
04
Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
05
Carefully fry the turon in batches for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
06
Remove the fried turon with tongs and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
07
Serve the warm, crispy turon immediately with a scoop of cold ube ice cream on the side.
About This Recipe
Experience a delightful twist on the beloved Filipino turon. This recipe features ripe saba bananas and sweet jackfruit (langka) wrapped in a crispy lumpia wrapper, then fried to golden perfection. Served alongside vibrant, creamy ube ice cream, it's a dessert that balances warm, crunchy sweetness with a cool, earthy finish.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra crispiness, you can lightly brush the turon with a sugar syrup (1 part sugar, 1 part water, boiled until dissolved) during the last minute of frying. This also adds a beautiful glaze.
Easy Substitutions
If saba bananas are unavailable, plantains can be used, though they may be less sweet. For langka, you can substitute with a small amount of sweetened condensed milk drizzled over the banana before rolling, or omit it entirely. Any vanilla or coconut ice cream can replace ube ice cream if preferred.
Storage & Reheating
Turon is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, but they will lose their crispiness. Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes or in a toaster oven until crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a delightful dessert after a Filipino meal, or as a sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds over the turon before serving adds a nice nutty crunch.
Common Mistakes
1. Overfilling the wrapper: This can cause the turon to burst during frying. Use just enough banana and langka to allow for a tight roll. 2. Not sealing the wrapper properly: The turon will unravel in the oil. Ensure the edges are firmly sealed with water. 3. Frying at too low a temperature: The turon will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Maintain a consistent medium heat. 4. Overcrowding the pan: This lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy turon. Fry in small batches. 5. Not draining excess oil: Always place fried turon on a wire rack with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can't find ube ice cream?
Vanilla or coconut ice cream are excellent alternatives that pair well with the flavors of turon and langka.
Can I bake or air fry turon instead of deep frying?
Yes, you can air fry turon at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Baking is also possible at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, brushing with a little oil for crispiness, but deep frying yields the best texture.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a perfect turon is a ripe saba banana, which provides a natural sweetness and soft texture when cooked. The lumpia wrapper should be rolled tightly to prevent oil from seeping in and to ensure a uniform crispness. Don't be afraid to experiment with the amount of brown sugar inside; some prefer a less sweet turon, while others enjoy a caramelized exterior.
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