Happy National Banana Day! Bananas are a nutrient-packed fruit that many of us know and love, but they’re also one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. Bananas can be blended into smoothies, baked into desserts, or added to savoury dishes, as they bring natural sweetness to a wide range of recipes. To celebrate this National Banana Day, we’ve put together a list of our top four banana recipes to inspire you!
First up, fluffy banana pancakes are a delicious way to start your day.
Ingredients
1 large ripe banana, mashed
125g flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
120ml milk
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon melted butter or oil
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth and then add the egg, milk, vanilla, and melted butter, whisking until combined.
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder and cinnamon together.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
Heat a pan over medium heat and drizzle with oil. Pour small amounts of batter and cook until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and then cook on the other side.
Once golden on both sides, serve with honey, maple syrup, fruit or any of your favourite pancake toppings!
Continuing with the breakfast theme, these delicious banana muffins are a great way to start your day on a sweet note. These muffins make a great snack or on-the-go breakfast option. Or, you could add chocolate chips and have them as a delicious dessert!
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, mashed
75g melted butter
100g sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
190g flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 175°C and line a muffin tin with liners.
In a bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, egg and vanilla.
In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin liners and bake in the oven for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool and enjoy as a delicious breakfast or as an after dinner sweet treat!
If you are more of a savoury person and you are looking for something more substantial, this flavourful banana curry is the perfect midweek meal. This unique dish will definitely bring a delicious twist to your usual dinners!
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
ginger, grated
400ml coconut milk
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon oil
Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder and stir for a minute.
Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
Add in the sliced bananas and let them cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened but not mushy.
Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve with rice or naan.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet after your banana curry, this banana tiramisu is the perfect solution. This creamy and rich dessert is a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, sliced
240ml strong coffee or espresso, cooled
12 ladyfinger biscuits
250g mascarpone cheese
250ml whipped cream
50g sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
In a bowl mix the mascarpone, sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream.
Dip each ladyfinger biscuit briefly into the coffee and arrange in a dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the biscuits and then layer with banana slices.
Repeat the layers and finish with a dusting of cocoa powder.
Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
Bananas are more than just a convenient snack; they are a versatile fruit that can enhance any recipe for any time of the day. Whether you’re starting your day with some fluffy pancakes, enjoying a delicious midday snack of banana muffins, or ending your day with a flavourful banana curry, there is no limit on how to enjoy this delicious fruit. Happy National Banana Day!