Boli Recipe (Roasted Plantain): A Complete Guide to Nigeria’s Beloved Street Food

Introducing Boli (Roasted Plantain)📢

Boli recipe (Roasted Plantain) is one of Nigeria’s most iconic street foods, loved for its smoky flavour, simplicity, and nostalgic connection to outdoor grills and local vendors. Whether eaten with spicy pepper sauce, groundnut, or fish, this delicacy is a favourite comfort food across West Africa. The Boli (Roasted Plantain) recipe brings together natural sweetness, charred goodness, and spicy sides, making it an irresistible treat.

What is Boli (Roasted Plantain)?🥘

The Boli recipe (Roasted Plantain) is a popular Nigerian snack made by roasting ripe or semi-ripe plantains over open charcoal, gas grill, or oven until caramelized and tender. Often enjoyed as a street food, Boli is paired with pepper sauce, grilled fish, or roasted groundnuts. It is healthy, filling, and perfect for both quick bites and hearty meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe💓

• Smoky and flavorful 🍴
• Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Healthy, gluten-free, and plant-based 🌱
• Perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or quick snacks
• Nostalgic and authentically Nigerian 🇳🇬

Ingredients for Boli (Roasted Plantain) Recipe📝

• Ripe but firm plantains (yellow with some black spots)
• Salt (optional)
• Vegetable oil (optional, for brushing)

Equipment Needed🔪

• Charcoal grill, gas grill, or oven
• Tongs (for turning plantains)
• Knife (for peeling plantains)
• Foil paper (optional, for oven use)

Step-by-Step Preparation👨‍🍳

Step 1: Prepare the Plantains

• Peel the ripe plantains. You may leave them whole or slice them slightly lengthwise for even roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Plantains

• On a charcoal grill: Place plantains directly over medium heat and roast, turning occasionally, until golden brown with char marks (15–20 minutes).
• On a gas grill: Roast at medium heat, turning frequently until evenly cooked.
• In an oven: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F), place plantains on a lined tray, and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

• Pair the Boli (Roasted Plantain) recipe with pepper sauce, roasted fish, or groundnut for the authentic Nigerian experience.

Tips for the Perfect Boli💡

• Use ripe but firm plantains—overripe ones can get mushy.
• For an authentic smoky flavour, charcoal grilling is best.
• Add a dash of salt or brush with oil for extra crispness.
• Always serve hot for the best taste.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, 1 medium plantain)🍽️

Plantain Nutrition↗ can vary based on ingredients and portion size. The following is an estimate per standard 1 medium plantain:

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Vitamin A: 63% of Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 22% of Daily Value
• Potassium: 900mg

Health Benefits and Plantain Nutrition🧑🏽‍⚕️

Plantains are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and complex carbohydrates. They are naturally low in fat and cholesterol, making Boli a nutritious snack or meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions❓

1. Can I make Boli in an air fryer?
👉 Yes! Air-fry peeled plantains at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. What is the best pairing with Boli?
👉 Pepper sauce, grilled fish, and groundnut are the most popular.

3. Can I use unripe plantains?
👉 Yes, but they will taste less sweet and more starchy.

4. How do I store leftovers?
👉 Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.

Why Boli is a Top Nigerian Street Food❓

Boli is not just tasty, it’s also healthy and easy to prepare. As a staple of Nigerian street food, it’s both affordable and filling. The natural sugars in plantains caramelize when roasted, providing a deliciously sweet and smoky treat. Plus, plantains are packed with essential nutrients.

Conclusion

Boli, or roasted plantain, is a classic Nigerian street food that’s easy to make and bursting with flavour. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a satisfying meal, Boli is a fantastic choice. Now that you know how to make Boli, try this recipe at home and savour a taste of West Africa!