Benyen (Haitian Banana Fritters)
Benyen, also known as Beignets de Carnaval or simply Haitian banana fritters, are one of my favorite foods. The mere thought of them transports me back to my childhood.
The Haitian Carnival is a multi-day national celebration held each year in the run-up to Mardi Gras. When I was a kid, I used to go to the carnival, and these delectable banana fritters could be found just about anywhere.
Attending the carnival brings together families, relatives, and friends to enjoy the festivities. This casual banana-based dessert, along with other popular foods associated with the Haitian carnival, plays an important role in how we celebrate this special time of year.
Benyen can also be found being sold by street vendors throughout the country, and you can get three of these sweet little treats for only 10 Haitian Gourdes, which is less than a US dollar! This dish is extremely versatile and can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Very ripe bananas are combined with flour, sugar, baking soda, and water to make the fritters. Nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt flavor the mixture. Once the batter is mixed, it is spooned into hot oil to fry, and once the fritters are golden and crispy, they are liberally sprinkled with sugar and served piping hot.
