Fruit | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Fat

Red Banana

Musa acuminata Allergen-Free
Red Banana

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Musaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Banana plant fruit

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A shorter, plumper banana variety with reddish-purple skin and a sweeter, creamier, raspberry-like flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Fruity, Slightly Tart
TextureCreamy, Soft
AromaTropical, Aromatic
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 120 g (1 medium)
Calories89 kcal
Total Fat0.3 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.1 g
Total Carbohydrate22.8 g
Dietary Fiber2.6 g
Total Sugars12.2 g
Calcium5 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium358 mg

Chef’s Secret

Red bananas are sweeter and soften more quickly than yellow bananas; use them when fully ripe for the best flavor and creamy texture.

Substitutions

Best Match

Yellow Banana

1:1

Most common substitute for sweetness and texture in baking or smoothies.

Plantain

1:1 (cooked)

Requires cooking but offers similar starchy texture, less sweetness when green.

Mango

1:1

Good for tropical flavor and soft, sweet flesh, though different texture.

Date (pitted)

1:0.5

Provides concentrated sweetness and a chewy texture, good for baking or smoothies.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, unblemished red bananas. Allow them to ripen at room temperature until the skin turns deep red or purplish.

Flavor Pairings

Coconut Lime Ginger Spices (Cinnamon Nutmeg) Yogurt Ice Cream