Sweet and Spicy Brazilian Banana Recipe: A True Delight!
As a chef specializing in Brazilian and American cuisine, I am excited to share with you this delicious recipe for Brazilian Bananas. You may have heard of fried bananas or caramelized bananas, but this recipe takes it to a whole new level. These golden-brown slices of sweet bananas cooked in butter, sugar, and cinnamon are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth craving.
Brazilian cuisine has a reputation for being bold, flavorful, and unique. This dish is no exception. The combination of flaked coconut, white sugar, and fresh lemon juice makes these bananas a perfect side dish or dessert that will wow your palate. Even better, this recipe is easy to make with simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store.
In Brazil, these bananas are known as Banana à Milanesa – a traditional Brazilian recipe that has been around for generations. Due to its popularity and deliciousness, variations of this dish can be found all over Brazil and even in the United States at restaurants like Texas de Brazil.
Whether you are looking for a great side dish or adding some flair to your next dinner party – this dish is sure to leave an impression on your guests. So let’s get started on this Brazilian Bananas recipe that will transport your taste buds to South America!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that will satisfy your sweet tooth and transport your taste buds to tropical Brazil, then this Brazilian banana recipe is just what you need! Sweet, caramelized bananas, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, are the star of the show in this recipe.
But why should you consider making this dish? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients and some simple steps, you can whip up a delicious and impressive side dish or dessert in no time. And who doesn’t love recipes that are both easy and delicious?
In addition to being easy to make, this dish is also versatile. You can serve it as a side with your favorite savory dishes or enjoy it as a sweet dessert topped with ice cream or whipped cream. The possibilities are endless!
But perhaps the most compelling reason to try this Brazilian banana recipe is its unique and exotic flavor profile. The bananas are coated in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon before being cooked to golden brown perfection. This combination of sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors will have your palate dancing with delight.
So if you want to impress your family and friends with an easy yet impressive dish that will transport them straight to the beaches of Brazil, then give this Brazilian banana recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this Brazilian Banana Recipe. Don’t worry, the ingredients are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store.
Here’s what you’ll need:
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Bananas: You will need six ripe bananas. Remember to peel them before using.
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White and Brown Sugar: You will need a quarter cup of each type of sugar. Using both white and brown sugar gives the bananas a caramelized and sweet flavor.
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Butter: Two tablespoons of butter will be used to sauté the bananas until golden brown.
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Fresh Lemon Juice: One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice will give a tangy taste to the sweet bananas.
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Cinnamon Sugar: This mixture of sugar and cinnamon is a staple in many Brazilian desserts. You can make it by mixing one tablespoon of cinnamon and two tablespoons of sugar.
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Flaked Coconut: One-third cup of shredded coconut will provide an added texture to the fried bananas.
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Breadcrumbs: Two-thirds cup of breadcrumbs or bread flour will be used to coat the banana halves before frying them.
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Salt: A pinch of salt will balance out the sweetness of the dish.
Now that we have all our ingredients, let’s move on to the next step!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have covered the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the preparation process of the Brazilian Fried Bananas. This recipe is truly a palate pleaser, so get ready for a mouthwatering dish!
Step 1: Preparing the Bananas
First things first, you need to peel bananas and slice them in half, lengthwise.
Step 2: Breading the Bananas
Next, in a shallow bowl combine 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, 1/2 cup of flaked coconut, 2 tablespoons of white sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir all ingredients until well blended.
In another bowl, melt 3 tablespoons of butter on medium heat. Then dip each banana half into the butter and coat both sides with the bread crumb mixture. Place the breaded bananas onto a wire rack or plate.
Step 3: Frying Banana à Milanesa
In a sauté pan over medium heat, add enough oil to cover about 2/3 of the bottom of the pan. Heat oil then carefully add breaded bananas into the pan. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Once cooked, remove from pan and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 4: Cinnamon Sugar Brazilian Fried Bananas
While still hot, dust each banana with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon sugar, giving an irresistible sweet and crunchy coating.
Congratulations! You have just made a delicious Brazilian Fried Bananas dish that is perfect as (6) a great side dish or even as (10) dessert. Now it’s time to impress your guests with this traditional Brazilian recipe that will surely satisfy their cravings.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about cooking is that you can always substitute and make variations to suit your taste buds. In this Brazilian bananas recipe, there are many ways you can play around with the ingredients to create a unique dish that satisfies your palate.
If you want to add a twist to the classic recipe, consider using plantains instead of bananas. Plantains have a distinct flavor and texture, perfect for those who prefer something not too sweet. You can also try using different types of sugar, such as brown or coconut sugar, to add extra depth to the caramelized bananas.
For those who love a bit of spice in their dishes, adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper when caramelizing the bananas can give it a subtle yet intriguing kick. You can also experiment with different toppings, such as chopped nuts or fruit jam. A sprinkle of flaked coconut on top of the caramelized bananas can add extra crunch and nuttiness.
If deep-frying doesn’t fit your cooking style, you can also bake the bananas in the oven for a healthier alternative. Slice the bananas into thin rounds, tossed in melted butter and cinnamon sugar mix, then bake in the oven until golden brown and crisp.
Overall, this Brazilian bananas recipe is versatile enough for anyone to customize it according to their preferences. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make it your own!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving Brazilian fried bananas, the possibilities are endless. These sweet and crispy caramelized bananas can be enjoyed as a side dish with various meats or as a dessert on their own.
For a traditional Brazilian meal, serve the fried bananas alongside grilled meat such as steak or chicken. The sweetness of the bananas pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the meat, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.
If you’re looking for a sweet treat, try serving the fried bananas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This combination creates a decadent and indulgent dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
For a more tropical twist, pair the fried bananas with fresh pineapple or coconut. The combination of these tropical fruits creates a flavor explosion in your mouth that will transport you straight to the beaches of Brazil.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some spice to your fried bananas by sprinkling them with cinnamon or chili powder. Pairing them with a cup of rich and robust Brazilian coffee creates an amazing flavor experience that will excite your palate.
No matter how you choose to serve your Brazilian fried bananas, they are sure to be a hit. So go ahead and get creative with your pairings – these delectable treats can handle it all!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Hey there eager chefs! In this section, I will be walking you through the tips on how to store and serve your Brazilian bananas recipe. Whether you’re planning for a large dinner party or just wanting to enjoy your hearty meal for a longer time, these tips will definitely come in handy.
Starting with Make-Ahead, if you are preparing this dish for a special occasion or simply trying to save time, fret not! You can make the batter and shape the bananas ahead of time. To do so, simply peel bananas and soak them in a mixture of fresh lemon juice and water to prevent them from browning. Then shape them into halves with a breading mix of flour and bread crumbs. Once done, store them in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to fry.
Next, when it comes to storing your Brazilian fried bananas, be sure to store them in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures that they remain fresh and maintain their flavor. To reheat the cold fried bananas, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), place the bananas on a baking sheet and reheat them for about 10 minutes or until they’re heated through.
Moving on to reheating your caramelized bananas recipe, if you’re looking to reheat them after storage, set your sauté pan on medium heat and add butter while stirring continuously. Allow the butter to melt then add brown sugar and cinnamon sugar. Mix thoroughly over medium heat until no lumps remain. Add banana halves back into the pan and flip until coated evenly with the caramelized mixture. Cook for another minute or two until golden brown.
There you have it! By following these simple steps on make-ahead preparation methods, storage techniques and reheating processes, you can ensure that your Brazilian bananas recipe is always fresh, delicious and ready-to-serve whenever you want it.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making Brazilian Fried Bananas, there are some tips and tricks that can make all the difference in achieving perfect results. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Firstly, make sure to peel the bananas carefully before using them. This may seem like an obvious step, but taking the extra time to remove all of the skin will help prevent the fruit from falling apart during cooking.
Next, use a sauté pan and cook the bananas over medium heat. A sauté pan provides a large enough surface area for easy frying and prevents overcrowding which can result in uneven cooking. Heating it over medium heat also allows for a gentle cook that creates a crisp outer layer while keeping the flesh soft and tender.
It’s important to pay close attention when frying the bananas, as they can burn easily. Keep an eye on them and adjust heat as needed to ensure they cook evenly without burning.
Another helpful tip is to dust the banana halves with a mixture of cinnamon and white sugar before frying them. This adds an irresistible sweet and spicy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the fruit perfectly.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with variations on this recipe. Try using different types of sugar or spices to create your own unique twist on this traditional Brazilian dish. With these useful tips, you’ll be able to create golden brown, caramelized bananas that are full of flavor and sure to please any palate.
FAQ
Now that you have learned the ins and outs of making Brazilian Bananas, you may have some questions about the recipe. Don’t worry because I have compiled the most frequently asked questions to help you out. Read on to get more insights on how to make this sweet treat a success every time!
What is a Brazilian banana called?
One type of banana that belongs to the Musa genus is the Brazilian Dwarf banana, which is also referred to as Santa Catarina Prata or Prata Ana. This diminutive banana variety is popular for its intense sweetness despite its small size.
Can I fry bananas instead of plantains?
While many are acquainted with the concept of frying plantains, the idea of frying bananas may come as a surprise to some. Believe it or not, bananas can indeed be fried to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both savory and addictive. This versatile recipe can be consumed as a dessert, side dish or savored on its own.
What are the different types of banana in Brazil?
Bananas are widely consumed in Brazil and there are several popular varieties such as Prata, Grand Naine, Williams, and Nanicão. However, each variety has its own limitations with regards to yield, disease resistance, and fruit quality.
Are bananas popular in Brazil?
Brazil boasts a vast array of edible fruits, but the banana holds a special position in the hearts of its people. Despite the fact that bananas were introduced by the Portuguese colonizers, it has become the most popular fruit in Brazil. In fact, Brazil is the second largest producer of bananas in the world, behind only India.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Brazilian Banana Recipe is a delicious and unique way to add some flavor and excitement to your meals. These caramelized bananas are easy to make and can serve as a great side dish for any meal. You’ll love the combination of cinnamon sugar and flaked coconut that will tantalize your taste buds. And with the flexibility of substitutions and variations, you can create your very own version of this Brazilian recipe. Whether you prefer fried bananas or banana à milanesa, this recipe is sure to satisfy your palate.
So why not try out this recipe today? Impress your family or guests with this traditional Brazilian dish, and pair it with some Brazilian coffee for the ultimate dining experience. And don’t forget to share this recipe with others who may be looking for a new way to spice up their meals. Together, we can continue to appreciate the diverse flavors and cultures of our world through food.
Brazilian Bananas Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 medium bananas, halved lengthwise
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup flaked coconut
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Place the bananas into the baking dish. Combine the orange juice, lemon juice, sugar and salt in a pitcher or bowl; pour over the bananas. Dot with butter.
- Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Sprinkle with coconut before serving.
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.