Are you tired of the same old sweet banana treats? Do you want to explore new culinary horizons with this humble fruit? Look no further! In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 delicious and creative savory banana recipes that will revolutionize your cooking routine. From comforting stews and soups to spicy tacos and breads, these innovative dishes showcase the incredible versatility of bananas in savory applications.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of mouth-watering recipes that blend the natural sweetness of bananas with bold flavors and textures. So, get ready to discover new favorite dishes and elevate your cooking skills with these game-changing banana recipes!
Savory Banana and Bacon Fritters
Discover a unique twist on traditional fritters with the sweet and savory combination of ripe bananas, crispy bacon, and fluffy eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, crumbled bacon, sugar, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Remove fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Banana Curry with Coconut Milk
A sweet and creamy curry that’s perfect for a warm evening or as a unique twist on traditional banana desserts. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of coconut milk and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 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 heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Add sliced bananas and coconut milk; stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the bananas are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Banana and Black Bean Tacos
Spicy Banana and Black Bean Tacos Recipe
This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the spiciness of chipotle peppers and the heartiness of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chipotle peppers and cumin; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a separate pan, warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing a spoonful of the black bean mixture onto a warmed shell, followed by a few slices of banana.
7. Serve immediately, with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ripe bananas with melted cheese for a deliciously unique flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together mashed bananas, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
4. Stuff each pepper with the banana-cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana and Chickpea Stew
This unique stew combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the earthy flavor of chickpeas, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its creamy texture and subtle spiciness, you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 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 (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Peel the bananas and add them to the pot. Stir in the vegetable broth and coconut milk.
4. Bring the stew to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Savory Banana and Herb Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the savory flavors of fresh herbs, perfect for a delicious accompaniment to your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, chopped herbs, grated cheese (if using), milk, and egg. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana and Lentil Soup
This creamy and comforting soup combines the sweetness of bananas with the heartiness of lentils, making it a unique and delicious twist on traditional soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Peel the bananas and add them to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the bananas are fully incorporated into the soup.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Banana and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this unique recipe that combines the natural sweetness of bananas and the nutritional benefits of spinach. The result is a moist and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, chopped spinach, and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the banana-spinach mixture.
4. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana and Sweet Potato Hash
This delightful hash combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the earthy flavor of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy, savory package. Perfect as a side dish or a brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss sliced bananas with 1/4 teaspoon salt.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread sweet potato cubes in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with remaining salt.
4. Roast sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Add banana slices to the baking sheet with sweet potatoes and toss to combine.
6. Return to oven and roast for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until bananas are slightly caramelized.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Banana and Tomato Chutney
This unique chutney combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the tanginess of tomatoes, creating a perfect blend of flavors. It’s a great accompaniment to naan bread, crackers, or as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1-2 green chilies, seeded and finely chopped (for added heat)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine bananas, tomatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. If desired, add chopped green chilies for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Banana and Avocado Salad with Lime Dressing
This salad combines the creamy texture of avocado and ripe banana with a zesty lime dressing, creating a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors. It’s a light and refreshing side dish or snack that’s ideal for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced bananas and diced avocado.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the lime dressing over the banana-avocado mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Banana and Cheddar Quesadillas
These unique quesadillas combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, creating a deliciously unexpected flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the mashed bananas and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-fourth of the banana-cheddar mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana and Jalapeño Cornbread
Add a kick to your next gathering with this unique Banana and Jalapeño Cornbread recipe. Moist banana and a hint of heat from jalapeños create an unexpected yet delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and chopped jalapeño.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana and Mushroom Risotto
This unique risotto combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, creating a delightful twist on traditional Italian cuisine. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, banana slices, and Arborio rice. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously, and cooking until liquid is absorbed (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana and Sausage Skillet
A sweet and savory twist on traditional breakfast or brunch, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the smoky flavor of sausage. Perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet sausage (such as chorizo or Italian sausage), sliced
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bananas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to caramelize.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the banana mixture.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana and Coconut Curry Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a warm and spicy curry flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the sliced bananas, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana and Zucchini Fritters
Moist banana and zucchini puree wrapped in a crispy cornmeal coating – these fritters are perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, grated zucchini, flour, and cornmeal.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Banana and Roasted Garlic Dip
This creamy dip combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the pungency of roasted garlic, perfect for snacking or serving with crackers, chips, or vegetables. It’s a unique twist on traditional dips that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 4-5 cloves of garlic
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, bananas, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting garlic), plus chilling time
Summary
Discover a world of flavor with these 18 creative savory banana recipes! From sweet and spicy tacos to comforting stews and soups, bananas add a unique twist to traditional dishes. Try making Savory Banana and Bacon Fritters for a breakfast treat or Banana Curry with Coconut Milk for a warm and aromatic dinner. Or, take your taste buds on a trip with Spicy Banana and Black Bean Tacos or Banana and Chickpea Stew. These innovative recipes will inspire you to think outside the box (or peel!) when it comes to cooking with bananas.
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