Are you looking for a new ingredient to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the humble green banana! While they’re often overlooked in favor of their ripe counterparts, green bananas have a unique flavor and texture that makes them perfect for a wide range of dishes. From savory curries and stir-fries to sweet desserts and snacks, we’ve gathered 19 creative green banana recipes that you absolutely must try.
In this article, we’ll explore the many uses of green bananas and provide you with inspiration for incorporating them into your cooking routine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to impress. So let’s dive in and discover the amazing world of green banana cuisine!
Green Banana Curry with Coconut Milk
A creamy and aromatic curry that showcases the unique flavor of green bananas. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green bananas, sliced into coins
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add sliced green bananas and stir to combine with spice mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until bananas are slightly tender.
5. Stir in coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-12 minutes or until bananas are fully cooked and sauce has thickened.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Fried Green Bananas
A twist on traditional fried green bananas, this spicy version adds a kick of heat from the addition of chili flakes and hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green bananas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot), to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel the green bananas and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each banana round into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the coated banana rounds for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Serve hot with additional hot sauce for added spice.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total.
Green Banana and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the nutty flavor of lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, sliced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced green bananas, lentils, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Banana Chips with Sea Salt
Take your snack game to the next level with these crispy and flavorful green banana chips seasoned with a touch of sea salt. This easy recipe yields a deliciously addictive treat that’s perfect for munching on the go.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe but firm green bananas
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the green bananas into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together sugar, water, baking soda, and sea salt until well combined.
4. Add the banana slices to the mixture and toss until they’re evenly coated.
5. Fry the banana chips in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove excess oil with paper towels and enjoy your crunchy green banana chips with a sprinkle of sea salt!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Banana Tacos with Black Beans
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe but firm green bananas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Taco shells (corn or flour)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Peel the green bananas and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the black beans to the skillet; stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of cooked green banana on each shell, followed by a spoonful of the black bean mixture.
6. Add your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Banana Fritters with Herb Dip
Transform ripe bananas into crispy, sweet treats and pair them with a refreshing herb dip for a delightful snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
For the fritters:
– 3 large green bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
For the herb dip:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add vegetable oil, beaten egg, and mix until smooth.
3. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the banana mixture into the oil.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping occasionally. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the herb dip, combine yogurt, parsley, dill, and salt. Mix well.
6. Serve fritters warm with a dollop of herb dip and a squeeze of lemon (if desired). Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes for frittering, 5 minutes for preparing the dip
Green Banana and Chickpea Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green bananas, sliced into coins
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced green bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
5. Stir in the chickpeas, soy sauce, and honey. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Banana Soup with Turmeric
Turmeric adds a warm, earthy flavor to this creamy and comforting green banana soup, perfect for a cozy evening or as a nutritious snack. This recipe is also vegan-friendly and gluten-free.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe green bananas
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk or non-dairy milk alternative
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in coconut oil until softened.
2. Add the green bananas, turmeric, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the bananas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in coconut milk or non-dairy milk alternative. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Green Bananas with Ground Beef
Stuffed Green Bananas with Ground Beef Recipe
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe uses green bananas as the “peppers” and fills them with a savory ground beef mixture. This unique dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Ingredients:
- 4 green bananas
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the top off each banana, leaving a small stem intact.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
- Mix in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the ground beef mixture into each banana, filling to the top.
- Place bananas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bananas are tender.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 30 minutes
Green Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a deliciously unique breakfast treat that combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the richness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, and mashed green bananas.
2. Add the melted butter, salt, and baking powder; mix until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1 minute.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Green Banana and Shrimp Ceviche
Celebrate the flavors of Latin America with this light and zesty ceviche recipe featuring green bananas and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced green bananas and shrimp.
2. Pour in the lime juice, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro and jalapeño pepper.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes marinating time)
Green Banana Salad with Lime Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Green Banana Salad combines the sweetness of green bananas with the tanginess of lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced green bananas, mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the lime dressing over the banana mixture and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Green Banana Dumplings in Tomato Sauce
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the rich flavor of tomato sauce, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional dumplings. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed green bananas, flour, salt, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes to develop the gluten.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the dumplings for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the dumplings. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Banana and Spinach Casserole
This vibrant casserole combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. A perfect side dish or main course for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large green bananas, sliced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the sliced green bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to brown.
4. Stir in the spinach, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Banana Smoothie with Almond Milk
A refreshing twist on traditional banana smoothies, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the creamy richness of almond milk. Perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green bananas
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Peel the green bananas and add them to a blender.
2. Pour in the almond milk and blend until smooth.
3. Add honey if desired for extra sweetness, and blend again.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie.
5. Blend until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired consistency.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 2 minutes
– Blend time: 1 minute
Green Banana Gnocchi with Pesto
This innovative recipe combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the creamy richness of pesto, creating a unique and flavorful twist on traditional gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the green bananas and mash them in a bowl using a fork.
2. Mix in flours, egg, and salt until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., dumplings or strips).
6. Cook gnocchi in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, or until they float.
7. Toss cooked gnocchi with pesto sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Banana and Coconut Porridge
A deliciously comforting breakfast or snack that combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 green bananas, sliced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced green bananas, coconut milk, honey, salt, and cinnamon.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the bananas are tender and the mixture is smooth (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter until melted.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Banana Kebabs with Yogurt Sauce
Discover a refreshing twist on traditional kebabs with this unique recipe that combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the tanginess of yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green bananas, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread banana pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, honey, lime juice, and salt.
4. Brush the yogurt sauce evenly over the banana kebabs.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until caramelized and slightly charred.
6. Serve warm with additional yogurt sauce for dipping (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Banana Bread with Walnuts
Moist and flavorful, this green banana bread incorporates the natural sweetness of ripe green bananas into a delicious loaf packed with crunchy walnuts. Perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe green bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of green bananas with these 19 creative recipes! From savory dishes like Green Banana Curry with Coconut Milk and Spicy Fried Green Bananas, to sweet treats like Green Banana Chips with Sea Salt and Green Banana Smoothie with Almond Milk. You’ll also find international inspirations such as Green Banana Tacos with Black Beans, Green Banana Dumplings in Tomato Sauce, and Green Banana Kebabs with Yogurt Sauce. Whether you’re looking for a new snack, meal idea, or dessert inspiration, this collection of recipes is sure to delight!
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