Are you tired of throwing away banana peels after enjoying a delicious and nutritious snack or adding them to your favorite smoothie? Think again! Banana peels are more than just waste – they’re a treasure trove of flavor, texture, and nutrition. In this article, we’ll explore 18 creative banana peel recipes that will make you rethink the humble fruit’s outer layer.
From savory dishes like curry and stir-fry to sweet treats like cakes and fritters, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to reduce food waste, these innovative ideas will inspire you to get creative with your next meal or snack. So, let’s dive in and discover the amazing world of banana peel recipes!
Banana Peel Chutney
Transform banana peels into a tangy and flavorful condiment perfect for topping naan, rice bowls, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dried banana peels (see note)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried banana peels and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked banana peels.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the banana peels, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and chili flakes (if using).
4. Blend until you reach your desired consistency – chunky or smooth.
5. Transfer the chutney to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a quick and easy way to repurpose banana peels.
Candied Banana Peel
Transforming a common waste product into a sweet and crunchy snack, candied banana peels are a game-changer for eco-conscious cooks. This unique recipe turns discarded banana peels into a tasty treat that’s perfect for topping yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 banana peels
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cut the banana peels into thin strips, removing any stringy bits.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the banana peel strips to the syrup and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
4. Remove the peels from the syrup with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Store candied banana peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Banana Peel Curry
Transform discarded banana peels into a flavorful and nutritious curry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 dried banana peels (or fresh, chopped)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the dried banana peels (or fresh chopped ones) and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Banana Peel Bacon
Transform banana peels into a delicious and unexpected bacon alternative! This recipe is perfect for adventurous cooks looking to reduce food waste and add some fun to their meals.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 banana peels (dried or fresh)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the banana peels, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the banana peels are crispy and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra smoky flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of liquid smoke to the mixture before baking.
– Use Banana Peel Bacon as a topping for salads, soups, or sandwiches, or crumble it into your favorite recipes for added texture and flavor.
Banana Peel Tea
This recipe may raise a few eyebrows at first, but trust us – the humble banana peel has some amazing properties that make it perfect for a soothing and flavorful tea. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious brew that’s packed with antioxidants and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried banana peels (see note)
– 2 cups water
– Honey or sugar to taste
– Lemon slice or lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the dried banana peels and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Banana Peel Stir-Fry
This recipe transforms banana peels into a savory and nutritious dish, perfect for adventurous eaters. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this unusual stir-fry in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 banana peels
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cut the banana peels into thin strips.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the banana peel strips; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
6. Season with salt and any desired additional flavorings (such as soy sauce or chili flakes).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Peel Jam
Discover a sweet surprise from banana peels! This unique jam is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 banana peels (from ripe bananas)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut the banana peels into small pieces and soak them in cold water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Drain the peels and combine them with sugar, water, lemon juice, and salt in a medium saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before straining the jam through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Peel Pancakes
Transform banana peels into a tasty and nutritious breakfast treat with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, with peels
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Peel the bananas and blend them into a smooth puree.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
4. Add the milk and egg to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the banana puree until well incorporated.
6. Grease the pan with butter or oil.
7. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop the batter onto the pan.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
9. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch, depending on the number of pancakes.
Banana Peel Pickles
Transform banana peels into a unique and flavorful pickle perfect for snacking or using as a topping. This recipe is a great way to reduce food waste and add some excitement to your condiment collection.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup banana peels
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine banana peels and cold water. Let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the peels to soften.
2. Drain the water and rinse the peels with cold running water.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Pack the softened banana peels into clean glass jars, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space at the top.
5. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the peels, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Shelf Life: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Banana Peel Vegan Pulled Pork
A surprising twist on traditional pulled pork, this recipe uses banana peels to add a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 2 ripe bananas, peels only
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine jackfruit, banana peels, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until the jackfruit is coated with the spice mixture.
4. Place the mixture in a shallow baking dish and add the vegetable broth.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the jackfruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Banana Peel Soup
A surprising twist on traditional soups, this unique recipe utilizes the often-discarded banana peels to create a creamy and nutritious broth.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe banana peels
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the banana peels, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peels are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree the soup.
7. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream to add richness and creaminess.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Banana Peel Cake
This moist and delicious cake is a creative way to use banana peels, reducing food waste while creating a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the banana peels with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1/4 cup flour until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the vanilla extract and banana peel mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Peel Fritters
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fritters, these bite-sized treats utilize the often-discarded banana peels to create a delicious and unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
2. Peel the bananas and place the peels into a blender or food processor.
3. Add flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar to the blender. Blend until well combined and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. With the blender still running, slowly add the water and blend until the mixture forms a thick batter.
5. Drop small spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/2 inch apart.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Banana Peel Tacos
Transform your kitchen scraps into a delicious and unique taco filling with this recipe for Banana Peel Tacos.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 banana peels, dried or fresh
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the dried banana peels (or fresh ones if using) and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they are caramelized and fragrant.
4. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the banana peel mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Banana Peel Salsa
A unique and delicious twist on traditional salsa, this recipe utilizes the often-discarded banana peels to create a sweet and tangy condiment perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the banana peels into small pieces and place on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the banana peels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re dry and slightly caramelized.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted banana peels, red onion, jalapeño pepper, cilantro leaves, and lime juice.
5. Blend until smooth, then season with salt to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Peel Ice Cream
Transform banana peels into a creamy and unique ice cream that’s perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe banana peels (inner, brown part only)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the freezer to its coldest setting.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the banana peels and blend until they’re fully broken down and the mixture is smooth.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until it forms stiff peaks.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar and vanilla extract.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the sugar mixture until well combined.
6. Add the banana peel mixture to the cream mixture and fold until a smooth ice cream base is formed.
7. Pour the mixture into an air-tight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Enjoy your one-of-a-kind Banana Peel Ice Cream!
Banana Peel Bread
Discover a sweet and savory twist on traditional bread-making with this unique recipe that utilizes banana peels! This moist and flavorful loaf is perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/4 cup grated carrot (optional)
• 2 banana peels, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl; mix until smooth.
3. Stir in mashed banana, grated carrot (if using), and chopped banana peels.
4. Knead dough on floured surface for 10-15 minutes, until elastic.
5. Place dough in greased loaf pan and let rise in warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Summary
Discover the creative ways to use banana peels! This article presents 18 unique recipes that will make you rethink waste. From sweet treats like Banana Peel Chutney and Candied Banana Peel to savory dishes such as Banana Peel Curry and Banana Peel Bacon, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Banana Peel Smoothie or Banana Peel Tea for a refreshing twist. Or, get adventurous with Banana Peel Stir-Fry, Banana Peel Jam, or Banana Peel Pickles. These innovative recipes will reduce food waste while tantalizing your taste buds! Read on to explore the possibilities.
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