The first bite of turon transports me straight to the vibrant markets of the Philippines, where the sweet aroma of fried bananas sizzling in caramelized sugar fills the air. These delightful Filipino fried banana rolls are not just a dessert; they’re a nostalgic journey into the heart of Filipino street food culture. You’d think a treat this exquisite takes an intricate process, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that making turon at home is both simple and incredibly satisfying.
When you’re craving something sweet yet comforting, turon delivers on all fronts. The combination of ripe Saba bananas and optional jackfruit, all wrapped snugly in crispy spring roll wrappers, creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick frying technique, you’ll have a golden-brown batch ready to be devoured in no time. Whether for an afternoon snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these treats are sure to impress anyone who prefers homemade goodness over fast food. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and make some magic happen in the kitchen!
Why Will You Adore Turon?
Indulgent flavor: Each bite bursts with the sweetness of caramelized brown sugar, complemented by the natural richness of Saba bananas.
Crispy texture: The spring roll wrappers create a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey interior.
Quick to prepare: With just 7 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this treat for any occasion.
Versatile: Add optional jackfruit for an exotic twist or enjoy them plain—either way, they shine!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether serving friends or family, turon is a guaranteed hit that turns ordinary moments into celebrated gatherings.
Turon (Filipino Fried Banana Rolls) Ingredients
• Discover the simple components that make turon irresistible.
For the Filling
- Saba bananas – These unique bananas offer a firm texture and natural sweetness, perfect for frying.
- Ripe jackfruit (optional) – Adds a delightful fruity flair and chewy texture, elevating your turon to the next level.
For the Wrappers
- 8-inch square spring roll wrappers – These create a crispy shell that holds all the deliciousness inside.
For the Coating
- Light brown sugar – Adds sweet caramel flavor when fried, making each bite a little piece of heaven.
For Frying
- Vegetable oil – A neutral oil that ensures even frying and prevents the turon from sticking.
With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be on your way to crafting your very own batch of turon, a true delight that encapsulates Filipino street food magic!
How to Make Turon
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Prepare the filling
Fill a medium shallow bowl with light brown sugar, and grab a small bowl of water. Position a spring roll wrapper in a diamond shape, with one point facing you, ready for filling. -
Coat the banana
Toss a halved Saba banana in the sugar until it’s coated on all sides. Set this sugar-coated banana slice horizontally in the center of your wrapper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add two slices of jackfruit on top. -
Wrap it up
Starting with the point closest to you, fold the wrapper over the banana and tuck the point underneath. Fold the right and left points over the banana before rolling tightly away from you, leaving the top point exposed. Moisten this exposed point with water and seal it up. Repeat with all wrappers. -
Heat the oil
Set a wire rack in a rimmed baking sheet to catch the crispy turon later. In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, heat ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (177°C). -
Fry the turon
Using tongs, carefully add half of the turon rolls in a single layer to the hot oil. Fry, flipping occasionally until they’re golden brown all over, around 3 minutes. Transfer them to the wire rack, then let the oil return to 350°F (177°C) for the next batch. -
Glaze with caramel
Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Add the remaining brown sugar to the oil, stirring with tongs to distribute. Return the turon to the skillet and move them around, flipping once until they’re beautifully glazed in caramel—about 1 minute. -
Cool and serve
Transfer the turon back to the wire rack and cool for about 3 minutes until the caramel sets. Serve warm and savor every crunchy, sweet bite!
Optional: Try garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Turon Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your turon to delight your taste buds!
- Vegan: Substitute Saba bananas with ripe plantains and use coconut oil for frying to maintain the deliciousness without animal products.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add a piece of dark chocolate within the filling for a rich, decadent twist. The melting chocolate mingles beautifully with the caramelized banana!
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle desiccated coconut inside the wrapper before adding banana for a tropical flair. Pair it with a drizzle of coconut cream for extra indulgence.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Mix cinnamon into the brown sugar before coating the bananas for a warming, spiced flavor that enhances their sweetness delightfully.
- Nutty Crunch: Include crushed nuts such as walnuts or almonds in the filling. This adds a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bananas inside!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar coating for a subtle heat that surprises the palate and enhances the flavor profile.
- Fruit Medley: Combine bananas with other fruits like ripe mango or berries for a colorful, fruity surprise in every bite. Their juices bring vibrant flavors that dance together.
- Maple Syrup: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist. The syrup caramelizes beautifully and creates a richer flavor profile for your turon.
With these variations, your turon can be as unique as you are—so get inspired and let the flavors flow!
What to Serve with Turon?
When it’s time to savor these delightful golden-brown treats, a well-curated selection of sides can elevate your turon experience to new heights.
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Coconut Ice Cream: The creamy and refreshing flavor enhances the sweetness of the turon, creating a delightful contrast.
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Sweetened Mango Slices: Fresh mango complements the caramelized taste of turon, providing a vibrant burst of citrusy goodness that balances the dish beautifully.
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Savory Pancit: This classic Filipino noodle dish adds a savory component to your meal, making for a satisfying and balanced spread—perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
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Filipino-style Coffee: A warm, robust brew pairs beautifully with turon, giving you a cozy combination of sweet and rich flavors to enjoy.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits can brighten up your plate, adding freshness and a lightness that perfectly balances the richness of the turon.
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Tapioca Pearl Dessert: Serve a bowl of sweet, chewy tapioca pearls in coconut milk as a unique dessert option after indulging in turon—an exciting texture that complements the crispy rolls.
Gather around your table, and let these delightful pairings take your turon experience to the next level!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful turon (Filipino Fried Banana Rolls) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling by wrapping the sugar-coated banana slices and optional jackfruit in spring roll wrappers up to 24 hours in advance. To maintain their quality, lay them flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet before refrigerating, ensuring they don’t stick together. When you’re ready to serve, heat the oil, fry the turon until golden brown (about 3 minutes), and finish with the caramel glaze for that irresistible sweetness. This way, you’ll have homemade turon ready to enjoy with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Turon
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store turon at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Place them on a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
Fridge: If you’d like to save them for later, stow fried turon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer for the best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked turon in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen when you’re ready to indulge.
Reheating: To reheat fried turon, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispy texture. Enjoy that delightful flavor!
Expert Tips for Making Turon
- Banana Selection: Choose ripe Saba bananas for the best sweetness and texture; avoid overly soft bananas that may mush and break during frying.
- Proper Wrapping: Roll the wrappers tightly to prevent them from opening during frying; ensure all points are securely sealed with water.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F; too hot could burn the turon, while too cool leads to sogginess.
- Glazing Technique: When caramelizing, keep the turon moving in the oil to ensure an even coat of caramel; this not only enhances flavor but also provides a gorgeous finish.
- Serving Fresh: Enjoy these turon (Filipino Fried Banana Rolls) freshly made for the crunchiest bite; they lose their crispness over time.
Turon (Filipino Fried Banana Rolls) Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe Saba bananas?
Absolutely! When choosing Saba bananas, look for ones that are bright yellow and slightly speckled with brown spots. Avoid overly soft or mushy bananas, as they can break easily during frying. The bananas should feel firm yet give slightly when pressed.
How should I store leftover turon?
Very good question! For the best taste, enjoy turon fresh. However, if you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain their crispy texture, reheat them in an air fryer for about 5 to 7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or bake in a preheated oven for 10 minutes.
Can I freeze uncooked turon?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked turon, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1 to 2 hours until firm. After they are firm, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time.
What should I do if my turon doesn’t stay closed while frying?
Very! If your turon is opening up in the oil, it usually means that the wrapper wasn’t sealed tightly enough. Make sure to moisten the top point of the wrapper well before sealing. Additionally, ensure that you are rolling the wrappers tightly and securely folding in all sides. It’s also helpful to monitor the oil temperature; frying at the correct temperature (between 350°F – 375°F) helps keep them intact.
Do turon contain allergens?
That’s an important consideration! The ingredients in turon—such as Saba bananas and jackfruit—are generally safe, but be mindful of any specific allergies. The spring roll wrappers often contain wheat, so those with gluten sensitivities should look for gluten-free wrappers. Always double-check the packaging for any allergens if you’re serving pets or sensitive individuals.
Ultimate Turon Recipe: Filipino Fried Banana Rolls to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a medium shallow bowl with light brown sugar, and grab a small bowl of water. Position a spring roll wrapper in a diamond shape, with one point facing you, ready for filling.
- Toss a halved Saba banana in the sugar until it's coated on all sides. Set this sugar-coated banana slice horizontally in the center of your wrapper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add two slices of jackfruit on top.
- Starting with the point closest to you, fold the wrapper over the banana and tuck the point underneath. Fold the right and left points over the banana before rolling tightly away from you, leaving the top point exposed. Moisten this exposed point with water and seal it up. Repeat with all wrappers.
- Set a wire rack in a rimmed baking sheet to catch the crispy turon later. In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, heat ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (177°C).
- Using tongs, carefully add half of the turon rolls in a single layer to the hot oil. Fry, flipping occasionally until they're golden brown all over, around 3 minutes. Transfer them to the wire rack, then let the oil return to 350°F (177°C) for the next batch.
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Add the remaining brown sugar to the oil, stirring with tongs to distribute. Return the turon to the skillet and move them around, flipping once until they're beautifully glazed in caramel—about 1 minute.
- Transfer the turon back to the wire rack and cool for about 3 minutes until the caramel sets. Serve warm and savor every crunchy, sweet bite!