When it comes to cooking with bananas, most people think of ripe yellow or brown bananas. But what about their less well-known counterpart, the green banana? While they may not be as sweet or soft as their riper counterparts, green bananas have a unique flavor and texture that can add excitement to your meals. From curries and stir-fries to pancakes and soups, we’ve scoured the globe for 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of this underrated fruit. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory meal, these green banana recipes are sure to satisfy.
**Recipe Highlights:**
* “Green Banana Curry with Coconut Milk”: A creamy and aromatic curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner
* “Fried Green Bananas with Garlic and Herbs”: Crispy fried bananas that make a great side dish or snack
Green Banana Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the creamy, spicy flavors of Indian cuisine with this simple and aromatic green banana curry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe green bananas, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add sliced green bananas and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 5 minutes or until the bananas are tender.
4. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer the curry over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Green Bananas with Garlic and Herbs
A twist on traditional fried bananas, this recipe adds a savory flavor profile with garlic and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green bananas
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and chives
Instructions:
1. Peel the green bananas and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each banana round in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated banana slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove the fried bananas from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle minced garlic and chopped parsley and chives over the fried bananas. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Banana and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a unique blend of tropical flavors, featuring green bananas and chickpeas. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green bananas, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add diced red bell pepper; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add green bananas, chickpeas, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until bananas are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Spicy Green Banana Chips
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, spicy, and addictive green banana chips! With a perfect balance of sweet and heat, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the bananas into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add the banana slices to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Place the banana chips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each chip.
6. Drizzle with coconut oil and sprinkle with salt.
7. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Green Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a sweet and nutritious breakfast treat that combines the natural goodness of green bananas, fluffy pancakes, and the richness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (batter should still be slightly lumpy).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. 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. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Banana and Potato Mash
This vibrant side dish combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the comforting warmth of mashed potatoes, perfect for a nutritious and flavorful accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green bananas, peeled and chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the unsalted butter, heavy cream or whole milk, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the chopped green bananas in a little bit of oil over medium heat until they’re tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine the mashed potatoes and cooked green bananas in a bowl. Mix well to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Banana Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the sweetness of green bananas with the crunch of mixed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green bananas, sliced into coins
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced green bananas, bell peppers, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Banana and Lentil Soup
This vibrant soup combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the comforting warmth of lentils, creating a nutritious and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green bananas, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, lentils, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the chopped green bananas, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, returning it to the pot.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Banana Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Experience the unique combination of sweet and savory flavors in this innovative recipe that will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe green bananas, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the banana slices and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing a few cooked bananas onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
5. Serve immediately with Avocado Salsa on top.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Banana and Beef Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with savory beef and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2-3 green bananas, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced green bananas, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until bananas are slightly tender.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine with the banana mixture.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until beef is cooked through and bananas are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Green Banana Fritters with Spicy Dip
These crispy and sweet fritters are a delightful twist on traditional banana treats, infused with the brightness of green bananas and a kick of spice. Perfect for snacking or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large green bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until smooth.
2. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the banana mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
4. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with Spicy Dip.
Spicy Dip:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve alongside fritters.
Green Banana and Shrimp Ceviche
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the sweetness of green bananas with the succulent flavor of shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe green banana, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced green bananas and shrimp.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture, making sure that all the ingredients are coated.
3. Sprinkle the cilantro and salt over the top of the ceviche.
4. If desired, add the chopped jalapeño pepper for an extra kick of heat.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This is a raw dish, so no cooking is required.
Green Banana and Spinach Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the earthy flavor of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced green bananas and fresh spinach leaves.
2. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top of the banana-spinach mixture.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Green Banana Dumplings in Tomato Sauce
Discover a unique twist on traditional dumplings with this recipe that combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the tanginess of tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Add vegetable oil and mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook dumplings for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened.
6. Add crushed tomatoes to the saucepan and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
7. Serve cooked dumplings in the tomato sauce, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Banana and Coconut Pudding
A refreshing dessert that combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the creaminess of coconut, perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
• 3-4 green bananas
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel the green bananas and slice them into rounds.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the banana slices, milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the bananas are tender.
5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut and vanilla extract.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow pudding to chill and set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Banana and Black Bean Burritos
A flavorful twist on traditional burritos, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the savory goodness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, sliced
– 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
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa and avocado or sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the cumin and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the sliced green bananas and black beans to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the bananas are tender.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the burritos by spooning the banana-black bean mixture onto the tortilla, followed by shredded cheese (if using). Top with salsa and avocado or sour cream (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Banana and Chicken Stew
This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the savory flavor of chicken, all wrapped up in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2-3 green bananas, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, bell pepper, and green bananas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bananas are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Green Banana and Cheese Empanadas
Discover a sweet and savory twist on traditional empanadas with this recipe, featuring green bananas and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas, sliced
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Arrange 4-5 slices of green banana along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on each side.
4. Sprinkle grated cheese and chopped cilantro over the bananas.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a triangle or a rectangle, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Banana Smoothie with Almond Milk
Recharge your day with this refreshing and healthy green banana smoothie, made with almond milk and a hint of natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe green bananas
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the green bananas and place them in a blender.
2. Add the almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
6. Blend again until ice is fully incorporated.
7. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 2-3 minutes of blending time.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious green banana smoothie!
Green Banana and Pumpkin Soup
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green bananas with the warm spices of pumpkin, creating a comforting and nutritious soup perfect for any season.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe green bananas, peeled and chopped
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), roasted and pureed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped green bananas, roasted pumpkin puree, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add creaminess.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to go green! In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that feature green bananas as the star ingredient. From savory curries and stews to sweet pancakes and smoothies, these flavorful dishes showcase the versatility of green bananas. Try your hand at making a creamy curry with coconut milk, crispy fried bananas with garlic and herbs, or hearty soups like lentil soup or potato mash. With so many options, you’re sure to find a new favorite recipe among this collection of tasty treats.
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