This month we are highlighting versatile and delicious bananas. As we all know, bananas are high in potassium, but did you know that they are also high in vitamin B6, vitamin C and a source of fibre? A medium banana contains only 118 calories and almost no sodium.
Selecting
All bananas in a bunch will ripen at the same time. So, if you want them to last for a while, separate individual bananas from several bunches at different stages of ripeness. The greener ones will take some time before they are at peak ripeness – about 1 to 3 days. The bright yellow ones are ready to eat immediately. Choose a banana that’s plump and evenly coloured.
Storing
Unripe bananas should always be stored at room temperature, away from heat or direct sunlight. To speed up the ripening process, place bananas with an apple in a brown paper bag and leave at room temperature. Ripe bananas can be stored in the fridge, the skins will turn dark but the fruit is fine. They will be good for about 3 days when refrigerated this way. You can freeze bananas for a taste sensation kids will love. Just peel, place on a wooden skewer, wrap in plastic and place in the freezer. They are ready to serve when completely or partially frozen.
Recipes
We love to cook with bananas! Try this deliciously moist banana yogurt loaf. Great for a snack, breakfast or dessert.
Craving a salty snack? Banana chips are the perfect thing to munch on. These are super easy to make – just add your favourite chip flavouring or a little bit of salt.
Bananas can make a sweet and creamy addition to salad (and who doesn’t love bananas and peanuts!). Give this apple banana salad with peanuts a try alongside your next dinner.
I scream, you scream, we all scream for banana “ice cream”! Frozen bananas can be transformed into your favourite ice cream in about 30 seconds!
Banana pairings
Bananas go great with:
- Yogurt
- Peanut butter
- Apples
- Chocolate
- Chai
- Cinnamon
- Honey
- Strawberries
- Coconut
This is just a short list, but there are so many more! What are your favorite banana recipes or pairings?
