Banana

Bananas are a versatile and widely consumed fruit, available year-round due to their tropical origins. They are a staple in both sweet and savory dishes and are particularly prevalent in South American, Caribbean, African, and Southeast Asian cuisines. Bananas can be eaten raw, baked, fried, or blended into smoothies. They are also used in baking to add moisture and natural sweetness to breads and muffins.

Banana Synonyms

Plantain (when referring to the starchier cooking variety)

Different Forms/Types of Banana

Chips

Banana chips are deep-fried or dried slices of bananas, coated with sugar or honey, and used as a snack.

Flour

Banana flour is made from green bananas and is used as a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour in cooking and baking.

Fresh

Whole bananas, either green (unripe) or yellow (ripe), are the most common form. They can be eaten raw, used in baking, frying, or as a sweetening agent in various dishes.

Frozen

Peeled bananas that are frozen can be used in smoothies, ice cream, or thawed for baking.

Pureed

Mashed bananas are used as a base for baby food, smoothies, or as a substitute for fats in baking recipes.

Sliced/Dried

Bananas sliced and dehydrated, often eaten as a snack or used in cereals, trail mixes, and baking.

How to Choose Banana

When selecting fresh bananas, look for fruit that is firm and free from bruises or deep scars. The stage of ripeness depends on your intended use; choose greener bananas if you want them to ripen at home over several days, or yellow with small brown spots for immediate consumption. For processed forms like chips or flour, opt for brands that use minimal additives and preservatives.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Banana

Bananas are a versatile fruit that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. When cooking bananas, consider their ripeness; overripe bananas are best for baking and making smoothies, while firmer bananas are suitable for frying or grilling. To prevent sliced bananas from browning, you can lightly coat them with an acidic juice like lemon or pineapple. For caramelization, cooking bananas with a bit of sugar can enhance their natural sweetness. Intermediate and expert home cooks should experiment with the degree of caramelization to suit their recipes, as it can range from a light sweetness to a deep, rich flavor profile.

Shelf Life of Banana

Store unripe green bananas at room temperature to allow them to ripen. Once ripe, bananas can be stored in the refrigerator; the skin will darken, but the fruit inside will remain unchanged for a few days. Sliced or pureed bananas should be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Dried bananas and banana chips should be kept in a cool, dry place, and banana flour should be stored in a sealed container away from moisture.

Recommended Brands for Banana

banana chips: Trader Joe's

banana flour: WEDO Gluten Free

dried banana: Barnana

Cooking Techniques for Banana

Baking: Bananas are commonly used in baking, where they add moisture and sweetness to recipes like banana bread and muffins. Overripe bananas are ideal for this purpose as their higher sugar content and softer texture blend well into the batter.

Frying: Sliced or whole bananas can be fried to create a crispy, caramelized exterior. This is often done for desserts or sweet snacks, such as banana fritters. Frying bananas in butter or coconut oil can add a rich flavor.

Grilling: Grilling bananas intensifies their sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Cut bananas in half lengthwise and grill them over medium heat until grill marks appear and the fruit softens. This method is great for a quick dessert or as a topping for ice cream.

Popular Banana Recipes

Banana Bread
Banana Foster
Banana Pancakes

Banana Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.3 g
fiber: 2.6 g
sugar: 12.2 g
protein: 1.1 g
calories: 89 kcal
carbohydrates: 22.8 g

Flavor Combinations

Bananas pair well with a variety of flavors and ingredients. They complement dairy products like yogurt, ice cream, and custard. Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla enhance the fruit's sweetness, while nuts like walnuts and pecans add texture and richness. Chocolate and caramel are classic pairings for bananas in desserts. In savory dishes, bananas can be paired with meats like pork or used in Caribbean and African cuisines with coconut, lime, and chili.

Allergen Information

Banana allergies are uncommon but can occur. Symptoms may include itching, hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Individuals with latex allergy may also react to bananas due to the presence of similar proteins.