Forktionary

Green Banana

Musa acuminata (often hybrids like Musa x paradisiaca) Fruit (cooked as Vegetable)

Green Banana Fruit (cooked as Vegetable)

At a Glance

  • Category Fruit (cooked as Vegetable)

The Forktionary Angle

"Unlike ripe bananas, green bananas are not sweet and behave much like potatoes, offering a firm texture perfect for boiling, frying, or mashing."

Definition

Unripe bananas, firm and starchy, commonly cooked as a vegetable rather than eaten raw, known for their versatility in savory dishes.

Ethylene Sensitivity Low (slow to ripen)
Fiber Content High (resistant starch)
Starch Content Up to 80% (dry weight)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Green Banana are:

Starchy earthy mildly bitter (raw) neutral (cooked)

Chef’s Secret

To prevent discoloration while peeling, submerge peeled green bananas immediately in cold water with a splash of vinegar or lime juice.

Best Substitutes

Plantain

Ratio 1:1

Potato

texture slightly different
Ratio 1:1

Taro Root

texture slightly different
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose firm, unblemished green bananas. Avoid any with yellow streaks or soft spots if cooking as a vegetable.

Culinary Pairings

Pork beef garlic onion cilantro citrus stews curries root vegetables

Recipes Using Green Banana

Aji De Carne Bolivian Pork And Bananas image
Dinner Party Cuisine Preparation 4 Hours Or Less

Aji De Carne Bolivian Pork And Bananas

Experience the explosive flavors of Bolivia with this Aji de Carne! A sweet and spicy pork stew, originally featured in Eat Low Fat Digest in the early 90s, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering blend of sweet bananas and fiery chiles. Perfect for a dinner party, serve this medium-heat, sweet-heat masterpiece with a refreshing salad, slaw, chilled fruit, and a side of creamy corn pudding. Inspired by Chile Pepper magazine's "Hot and Spicy Latin Dishes" collection (April 1995).

See Complete Recipe
Mountain Rice Arroz Da Serra Portuguese Brazil image
Main Dish Portuguese Time To Make Beef

Mountain Rice Arroz Da Serra Portuguese Brazil

Discover the rich history and vibrant flavors of Brazil with this authentic Arroz da Serra recipe! A culinary fusion born from the meeting of Portuguese settlers and the Tupi-Guarani indigenous people, this mountain rice dish is a cherished part of Brazilian national cuisine. Inspired by "Cuisines of Portuguese Encounters," this recipe transports you to the heart of Brazil, offering a unique and unforgettable taste experience. Prepare to be amazed by the simple yet exquisite combination of ingredients and techniques.

See Complete Recipe