Banana

Musa acuminata Fruit

Banana Fruit

At a Glance

  • Category Fruit

The Forktionary Angle

"The Fruit of Endless Possibilities"

Definition

An elongated, curved fruit with a soft, starchy, and sweet flesh, growing in clusters on tropical plants of the Musa genus.

Global Usage The fourth most important food crop in terms of global production.
Science Fact Rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, contributing to heart health and digestion.
Storage Tip Store at room temperature; refrigerate ripe bananas to slow further ripening, skin will darken.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Banana are:

Sweet Mild Creamy

Chef’s Secret

To quickly ripen bananas for baking, place them on a baking sheet at 300°F (150°C) for 15-30 minutes until skins are black.

Best Substitutes

Plantain

when cooked
Ratio 1:1

Apple sauce

in baking
Ratio 1:1

Avocado

for texture in smoothies
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose bananas based on ripeness preference: green for firm, yellow for sweet, spotted for baking.

Recipes Using Banana

Tropical Fruit Low In Something Cuisine Preparation

100 Stroke Banana Bread

This legendary banana bread recipe, contributed to the Little Church of the Desert cookbook in 1986 by Shirley McClay of Twentynine Palms, is a true testament to simple baking. The secret? 100 strokes of the whisk! This ensures a perfectly moist and flavorful loaf, making it a cherished family favorite. Get ready to experience the delicious taste of history!

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15 Minutes Or Less Course 15 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Bananas Foster Crepes

Indulge in a decadent Bananas Foster Crepes dessert! This quick and easy recipe uses Melissa's pre-made crepes as a shortcut to creamy, caramelized banana perfection. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this recipe offers customizable variations to suit your taste.

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Main Ingredient Bananas Tropical Fruit Fruit

Banana Blueberry Oatmeal Bread

This mouthwatering Banana Blueberry Oatmeal Bread is even better the next day! A family favorite from the "Texas Church Supper and Family Reunion Cookbook," this recipe delivers a moist, delicious loaf packed with wholesome oats, sweet bananas, and juicy blueberries. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack.

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Time To Make Healthy 2 Greens Berries

A Different Spinach Salad

Experience a refreshing twist on a classic with this vibrant spinach salad! Sweet strawberries and bananas dance with crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a tangy raspberry dressing. Forget the heavy, bacon-fat dressings – this light and flavorful salad is a delicious and healthy alternative. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a refreshing side dish for your next gathering!

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Pies Low In Something Low Protein Dietary

Banana Crunch Pie

This isn't your grandma's banana pie! Our Banana Crunch Pie is a delightful twist on the classic Dutch apple pie, featuring a sweet and nutty brown sugar crumb topping and a creamy banana filling. Made easy with a store-bought pie crust, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unique and utterly delicious dessert!

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Muffins Breads Chocolate Main Ingredient

Banana Peanut Butter Chip Muffins Light

These incredibly moist and delicious banana peanut butter chip muffins are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet treat, this lightened-up recipe is surprisingly easy to make and packed with flavor. Kids and adults alike will adore these muffins, featuring the perfect combination of ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate chips. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Low Cholesterol 15 Minutes Or Less Low Carb Time To Make

Big Berry Smoothie

Fuel your day with this vibrant and delicious Big Berry Smoothie! Packed with antioxidants and bursting with fresh berry flavor, this 5-minute recipe is the perfect healthy breakfast or refreshing afternoon treat. Get your daily dose of vitamins and energy with this easy-to-make smoothie from Foodnetwork.com/recipes/aaron-mccargo,-jr. Perfect for busy mornings or a quick post-workout recovery.

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Preparation Cupcakes Easy Occasion

Banana Choc Chip Muffins

Delight your kids with these light and tasty Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins! Perfect for lunchboxes or a sweet treat, this recipe from Fresh Living Magazine is easy to make and bursting with banana and chocolate flavor. Get the recipe now and make lunchtime a little sweeter!

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Course Fruit Desserts Cookies And Brownies

Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

These moist and chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies are a healthier twist on a classic, inspired by a recipe from Cary Neff of the Miraval Spa, as seen on Oprah! Surprisingly delicious, even the pickiest chocolate chip cookie purists will approve. Made with wholesome ingredients and just the right amount of banana flavor, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Get ready to hide them before they disappear!

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Desserts From Scratch For Large Groups Course

Best Banana Bread Ever Seriously

This unbelievably moist and delicious banana bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Our secret ingredient and clever baking technique create an irresistible cinnamon-sugar crust and perfectly tender crumb. Get ready for rave reviews! This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike.

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Low In Something Dietary For 1 Or 2 Breakfast

Bananas On Toast

Start your day with this quick and easy Bananas on Toast recipe! This simple yet satisfying breakfast is perfect for busy mornings. Sweet, creamy bananas paired with crispy toast – it's a match made in breakfast heaven. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal in just minutes!

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Cookies And Brownies Cookies And Brownies For Large Groups Course

Banana Monkey Bars

Transform leftover bananas into irresistible Banana Monkey Bars! This easy recipe uses yellow cake mix for a quick and delicious base, then gets loaded with yummy toppings like butterscotch chips and coconut. A perfect treat for any occasion, inspired by Camilla Saulsbury's Cake Mix Cookies.

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60 Minutes Or Less Picnic Lunch Preparation

Banana Berry Muffins

Moist, delicious Banana Berry Muffins bursting with fresh raspberries and blueberries! The subtle sweetness of banana perfectly complements the tart berries, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack. Get your bake on!

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Smoothies 3 Steps Or Less Easy Course

Banana Berry Drink

Escape to a tropical paradise with this vibrant Banana Berry Bliss Smoothie! This quick and easy recipe, inspired by Taste of Home, blends the sweetness of bananas with the juicy burst of berries for a refreshing treat. Perfect for a healthy breakfast, post-workout fuel, or a delightful afternoon snack.

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3 Steps Or Less Smoothies Dietary Cuisine

Banana Vanilla Milkshake

Creamy, dreamy Banana Vanilla Milkshake! This easy 4-minute recipe delivers the perfect blend of sweet banana and rich vanilla. A delightful treat for a hot day or a quick after-school snack. Get ready for a taste of pure bliss!

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Dietary No Cook Main Ingredient Blueberries

Banana Blueberry Smoothie

Boost your health with this delicious and easy Banana Blueberry Power Smoothie! Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and healthy omega-3s from flax oil, this recipe is perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack. Get your daily dose of omega-3s (following your doctor's or naturopath's recommendations) while enjoying a vibrant and flavorful smoothie. This recipe is easily customizable to fit your dietary needs.

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Dietary Easy Time To Make 5 Ingredients Or Less

Banana Roll Ups

These easy-to-make Banana Roll-Ups are a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike! Perfect for camping trips, potlucks, or a fun after-school snack. Sweet bananas, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy nuts combine for a delicious and satisfying treat. Easily customizable with chocolate chips or your favorite toppings! (Note: Not suitable for children under one year old unless honey is omitted.)

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Low Sodium Low Calorie Low Protein Low Sodium

Banana Ambrosia

This easy 15-minute Banana Ambrosia recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dessert! Sweet bananas are baked to perfection in a tangy orange juice and brown sugar glaze, then topped with a sprinkle of coconut. Warm or cold, it's the perfect quick treat for any occasion. Get ready for rave reviews!

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