Turon
Snacks • Philippines
About Turon
Turon is a classic merienda staple in the Philippines, recognizable by its crispy, caramelized exterior and sweet filling. Usually found in carinderia stalls or hawked by street vendors, turon is made by rolling ripe saba (cardaba) bananas and jackfruit (langka) in a lumpia wrapper, then frying until golden brown and coated with a thin layer of sugar. The result is a snack that's crunchy on the outside, chewy and fragrant within—often enjoyed in the afternoons, paired with coffee or iced gulaman. Locals value turon for both its affordability and the way it balances satisfying sweetness and texture in each bite. At around 260 kcal per 100g, turon is relatively high in carbohydrates and fat, mostly from the sugar coating and the deep-frying oil. It's vegan and halal-safe, but if you're watching your calorie intake, portion control is key—one turon can easily be a quick energy boost, but sharing or splitting a piece is a good way to enjoy the flavor without going overboard. Some vendors offer variations with less sugar or smaller rolls, making them a lighter option in a lineup of heavier kakanin and fried merienda treats. If ordering, ask for turon that isn't swimming in excess oil, or let it cool slightly to drain some fat before eating.
How to Make Turon (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Turon, also known as banana lumpia, is a beloved Filipino snack that perfectly captures the essence of the Philippines’ vibrant street food culture. Traditionally sold by hawkers and enjoyed by families across the archipelago, Turon features ripe saba bananas (native Filipino bananas) wrapped in spring roll wrappers, sweetened with a touch of sugar, and lightly pan-fried to golden perfection. Sometimes, slices of ripe jackfruit are added for a unique tropical twist, enhancing both aroma and flavor. The taste of Turon is a harmonious blend of caramelized sweetness, crisp texture, and soft, warm fruit. It’s a staple at merienda (afternoon snack) time, found everywhere from busy city markets to quiet rural homes. Turon is more than just a treat; it’s a symbol of Filipino resourcefulness, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful snack that appeals to all ages. Making Turon at home is not only easy but also allows you to control the ingredients for a healthier, guilt-free version that still delivers authentic flavor.
Ingredients(for 2 pieces per serving)
- 4 pieces Saba bananas (ripe, peeled and halved lengthwise)
- 8 sheets Spring roll wrappers (lumpia wrapper)
- 1/2 cup Ripe jackfruit (langka, sliced into strips) - optional
- 2 tablespoons Coconut sugar (or muscovado sugar)
- 2 tablespoons Coconut oil (for pan-frying)
- 1 tablespoon Water (for sealing wrappers)
- 1 teaspoon Chia seeds (for added fiber (optional)) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the saba bananas by peeling and slicing them in half lengthwise. If using jackfruit, slice into thin strips.
3 minutes
Use ripe saba bananas for natural sweetness.
- 2
Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a small amount of coconut sugar onto the wrapper.
2 minutes
Work quickly to prevent wrappers from drying out.
- 3
Place one banana half and a strip of jackfruit (if using) near the edge of the wrapper. Optionally, sprinkle with chia seeds for extra fiber.
2 minutes
Do not overfill to ensure easy rolling.
- 4
Roll the wrapper tightly around the fruit, folding in the sides to seal. Dab a little water along the edge to secure the seam.
3 minutes
Seal well to prevent oil from seeping in during cooking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Turon recipe is health-conscious by reducing added sugar and using coconut oil for pan-frying instead of deep-frying, lowering saturated fat intake. Saba bananas and jackfruit are naturally sweet and nutrient-dense, eliminating the need for artificial sweeteners. The recipe is vegan, uses whole plant foods, and can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets, making it suitable for a variety of healthy lifestyles.
Turon is high in dietary fiber thanks to saba bananas and jackfruit, which support healthy digestion. Saba bananas offer potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, while jackfruit adds antioxidants and vitamin A. Using coconut sugar as a sweetener provides a lower glycemic alternative to refined sugar. Pan-frying in coconut oil, instead of deep frying, reduces overall fat content. Optional chia seeds add omega-3 fatty acids, extra fiber, and minerals, making this snack a nutrient-rich choice.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use very ripe saba bananas for natural sweetness and best texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Fry Turon seam side down first to prevent unraveling.
- 💡Tip 3: Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar for crisp caramelization without excess calories.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled Turon in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat in an oven or air-fryer to restore crispiness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 260.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40.0 g |
| Total Fat | 10.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.0 g |
Cultural Notes
Turon is an everyday Filipino merienda, often sold as street food and enjoyed across all social classes. It's a familiar sight in carinderia displays, especially during mid-afternoon snack times.
