When the sweet notes of ripe saba bananas and the tropical essence of jackfruit fill my kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. This Turon recipe, a beloved Filipino dessert, has a way of brightening any day. Picture this: each golden, crispy roll encasing a warm, gooey filling, drizzled with luscious caramel that adds just the right touch of indulgence. What’s more, this delightful treat comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice whether I’m hosting friends for a casual dessert night or simply craving something sweet after a long day. Join me in recreating this iconic dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of the Philippines, proving that homemade goodness can be quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Why is this Turon Recipe a Must-Try?
Deliciously crispy and golden, this Turon recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine right to your kitchen. Quick to prepare, you can whip up this delightful treat in under 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight or unexpected guests. Versatile filling options, from classic saba bananas to tropical jackfruit, allow for customization based on your taste preferences. Crowd-pleasing dessert with an irresistible caramel crunch, it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering! Vegan-friendly and light on ingredients, satisfying your sweet tooth has never been easier or more delicious.
Turon Recipe Ingredients
• Satisfy your cravings with these must-have ingredients!
For the Filling
- Saba Bananas – Provides natural sweetness and a firm texture; if unavailable, American bananas can be used, sliced shorter for easier wrapping.
- Jackfruit – Offers a fruity flavor and chewy texture; canned jackfruit is a convenient alternative for quick prep.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and sweetness to the filling; ensure it’s packed well for an even coating.
For Wrapping and Frying
- Spring Roll Wrappers – Encases the filling, providing that essential crispy texture when fried; for best results, use high-quality wrappers like Spring House brand.
- Neutral Cooking Oil – Used for frying; vegetable oil is recommended for its ability to withstand high heat without smoking.
For Caramel Coating
- White Sugar – Creates a sweet, crunchy caramel layer that enhances the Turon recipe; keep a close eye on it while caramelizing to avoid burning.
How to Make Turon
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Prepare the Filling: Start by peeling and slicing the saba bananas into even slices, ensuring a consistent size for even cooking. Then, slice the jackfruit into strips, adding a tropical flair to your filling.
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Setup Workstation: Pour the dark brown sugar into a shallow plate for easy coating. Carefully peel the spring roll wrappers and cover them with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. Keep a small bowl of water on hand for sealing the wrappers.
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Wrap the Turon: Place a banana slice and a few strips of jackfruit onto a wrapper. Dust them lightly with brown sugar for sweetness, then use the water to seal the wrapper securely. Master the one-roll technique for a beautiful presentation.
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Fry the Turon: Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the turon for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain them on a wire rack to keep them from getting soggy.
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Caramel Coating: In a separate pan, melt white sugar over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it turns light golden brown. Once melted, drizzle or dip each fried turon into the caramel for a delectable finishing touch. Allow them to cool slightly to set.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Perfect Turon
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Check the Wrappers: Ensure your spring roll wrappers are fresh and not tearing; store them covered with a damp cloth to maintain flexibility.
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Right Temperature: Frying oil should be at 350°F (175°C) for optimal crispiness; too hot can burn them quickly, while too cool will make them soggy.
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Don’t Overfill: Keep the fillings modest—too much can lead to tearing; a good balance ensures easier rolling and frying.
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Timing is Key: Fry turon in batches, without overcrowding the pan, to allow even cooking and proper crispiness.
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Caramel Care: Watch the white sugar closely while making caramel; it can burn quickly. A medium-low heat ensures a perfect golden drizzle for your Turon recipe.
What to Serve with Crispy Turon: Filipino Banana Lumpia with Caramel?
Enhance your culinary adventure by pairing your Turon with these delightful companions that balance flavors and textures beautifully.
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Coconut Ice Cream: This creamy treat adds a refreshing contrast, complementing the warm, crispy Turon while enhancing its tropical flair. A scoop brings an indulgent touch that turns dessert into an experience.
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Fresh Mango Salad: Bright and zesty, this salad brings a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the Turon with its tangy dressing. The juicy mangoes and crunchy veggies provide a delightful crunch.
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Sweet Sticky Rice: A classic combination, this sticky rice offers a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy exterior of the Turon. Drizzling with coconut cream elevates your dessert game even higher.
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Filipino Hot Chocolate: Warm and rich, this drink’s chocolatey goodness mirrors the caramel layers of the Turon. Sipping it creates a cozy atmosphere that rounds out your dessert experience.
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Chilled Coconut Water: Light and hydrating, this drink serves as a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the Turon. Its subtle sweetness keeps your palate refreshed and entertained.
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Tropical Fruit Platter: A vibrant assortment of pineapples, lychees, and papayas creates a colorful side that enhances the tropical theme. Each bite of fresh fruit contrasts nicely with the crispy sweetness of your Turon.
These pairings not only enhance the flavors of your Turon recipe but also create a delightful feast that will leave everyone craving for more!
Make Ahead Options
These Turon (Filipino Banana Lumpia w/ Caramel) are perfect for home cooks looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling of saba bananas and jackfruit up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they are fresh and ready to roll when you need them. Simply slice the bananas and jackfruit, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can wrap the filled turon and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before frying. Just remember to re-heat the oil and fry until golden brown when ready to serve. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy the same crispy, delicious results with minimal effort!
Turon Recipe Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful treat and make it uniquely yours!
- Vegan: Use oil or coconut milk for frying and sweeteners like agave for a plant-based version.
- Fruity Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple alongside the saba bananas for a vibrant tropical flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed nuts like walnuts or almonds in the filling for an added crunch and depth.
- Ube Delight: Replace the saba bananas with ube halaya for a beautiful purple hue and distinctly rich taste.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After caramelizing, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the turon for an indulgent treat.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle shredded coconut inside the filling or on top of the caramel for a delightful tropical flair.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brown sugar mix for a warming heat to balance the sweetness.
- Savory Option: For a unique twist, try using savory fillings like cream cheese mixed with herbs for a different kind of lumpia experience.
Each variation invites exploration and can turn this classic dessert into a personal favorite!
How to Store and Freeze Turon Recipe
Fridge: Store leftover turon in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results and to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cooled turon individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For frozen turon, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven to restore their delightful crunch and warmth.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, turon can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving, ensuring optimal flavor and texture for your guests.
Turon (Filipino Banana Lumpia w/ Caramel) Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use for Turon?
Absolutely! Saba bananas are traditionally used due to their firm texture and natural sweetness. If you can’t find them, American bananas work as a substitute. Just slice them shorter to make wrapping easier.
How should I store leftover turon?
Store leftover turon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep that lovely crispiness intact.
Can I freeze turon? How do I do it?
Very! To freeze turon, wrap each cooled piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven to restore their delightful crunch.
What if my turon wrappers tear while wrapping?
No worries at all! If your wrappers tear, don’t panic. You can simply use a small piece of another wrapper to patch it up. Alternatively, you can use a bit of water to seal the tear and reinforce the wrapper. Just remember to keep your wrappers covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent them from drying out.
Is this turon recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! This turon recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based ingredients. Just make sure that your spring roll wrappers don’t contain any animal products, and you’re all set for a delicious, guilt-free treat that everyone can enjoy!
Delicious Turon Recipe: Filipino Banana Lumpia with Caramel Crunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and slicing the saba bananas into even slices, ensuring a consistent size for even cooking. Then, slice the jackfruit into strips, adding a tropical flair to your filling.
- Pour the dark brown sugar into a shallow plate for easy coating. Carefully peel the spring roll wrappers and cover them with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. Keep a small bowl of water on hand for sealing the wrappers.
- Place a banana slice and a few strips of jackfruit onto a wrapper. Dust them lightly with brown sugar for sweetness, then use the water to seal the wrapper securely. Master the one-roll technique for a beautiful presentation.
- Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the turon for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain them on a wire rack to keep them from getting soggy.
- In a separate pan, melt white sugar over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it turns light golden brown. Once melted, drizzle or dip each fried turon into the caramel for a delectable finishing touch. Allow them to cool slightly to set.