There are good problems to have, like a surplus of fruit for example. In our case, we have ripening saba bananas waiting to be enjoyed. Last week, I made minatamis na saging (sweetened banana in brown sugar syrup). This week, I decided to revisit a childhood favorite I haven’t had in over a decade.

I almost forgot about maruya, to be honest, when I was trying to think of recipes for our abundant saba supply. Good thing my boyfriend suggested it. Instantly, I was transported back to my younger days, happily snacking on this classic Filipino merienda.

Maruya is basically deep-fried banana fritters rolled in white sugar. The batter is pretty simple and easy to make, and if stored properly, can be used the following day.

Yield: 1 dozen medium-sized fritters

Total time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 8 pieces ripe saba bananas, peeled
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar for the batter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar for rolling
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Mash the saba bananas until only slightly smooth. Small lumps are fine and will add a nice texture to the fritters later on.
2. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add in the wet ingredients: milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
4. Finally, add the mashed bananas and mix carefully.
5. Heat a pan with oil enough to cover the fritters, up to medium-high heat.
6. Scoop some batter and gently add to the pan. Make sure to have enough space between fritters, so they don’t stick to each other during cooking.
7. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden or toasted brown (up to your preference). Set aside to cool.
8. Prepare the sugar by placing it on a small plate.
9. Once cool enough, roll the fritters in the sugar.
10. Serve and enjoy!

I can’t believe it’s been so long since I last had this. It was definitely a delight to bite into a soft and sweet maruya once again. This might just inspire me to look into other childhood treats I’ve been missing.

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