Koliko

Koliko

Koliko (koh-LEE-koh)

Fried Ripe Plantains

Prep Time 15 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 324 kcal

Sweet, caramelized slices of ripe plantain deep-fried until golden and crispy on the edges, a universal Togolese side and snack.

Nutrition & Info

310 kcal per serving
Protein 2.0g
Carbs 52.0g
Fat 12.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

deep frying pan slotted spoon paper towels

Presentation Guide

Vessel: woven basket lined with paper

Garnishes: salt

Accompaniments: bean stew, pepper sauce

Instructions

  1. 1

    Peel ripe plantains and slice diagonally into 1cm thick pieces.

  2. 2

    Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 170°C.

  3. 3

    Fry plantain slices in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden.

  4. 4

    Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  5. 5

    Sprinkle lightly with salt while still hot.

  6. 6

    Serve immediately as a snack or alongside main dishes.

💡

Did You Know?

The sweetness of koliko depends entirely on the ripeness of the plantain — the blacker the skin, the sweeter and more caramelized the result.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • deep frying pan
  • slotted spoon
  • paper towels

Garnishing

salt

Accompaniments

bean stew, pepper sauce

The Story Behind Koliko

Plantains arrived in West Africa from Southeast Asia via the Indian Ocean trade routes over a thousand years ago and became a foundational crop. Koliko, the simple act of frying ripe plantain slices, is one of the most universally loved preparations across Togo and the broader West African region. Its simplicity belies its importance as a source of quick energy, a comfort food, and an essential accompaniment. In Togo, koliko is sold everywhere from school gates to sophisticated restaurants.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed snack, any meal side 📜 Origins: Post-Columbian

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