9 Simple Ways to Include Raw Banana in Your Daily Diet

Introduction

Raw bananas, also known as green bananas or plantains, are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can add a delightful twist to your meals. Unlike their ripe counterparts, raw bananas have a starchy texture and a milder flavor. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any diet. In this blog, we’ll explore nine simple ways to incorporate raw bananas into your daily meals and snacks.

1. Raw Banana Smoothie

A Nutrient-Packed Drink

A raw banana smoothie is a great way to start your day with a boost of nutrients. Simply blend raw banana with a handful of spinach, a splash of almond milk, and a touch of honey for a refreshing and energizing drink.

Recipe

• 1 raw banana
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel and slice the raw banana.
2. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
3. Blend until smooth and enjoy!

2. Raw Banana Pancakes

A Healthy Breakfast Option

Raw bananas can be used to make delicious and healthy pancakes. Their starchiness helps bind the batter, giving you fluffy and flavorful pancakes without the need for refined flour.

Recipe

• 2 raw bananas, mashed
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the flour, baking powder, and honey.
2. Gradually add almond milk until you reach a smooth batter consistency.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour in the batter to form pancakes.
4. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.

3. Raw Banana Chips

A Crunchy Snack

Homemade raw banana chips are a crunchy and healthy snack alternative to store-bought chips. They’re easy to make and can be seasoned to your taste.

Recipe

• 3 raw bananas, peeled and sliced thinly
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Optional: spices like paprika or cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss the banana slices in olive oil and spread them out on a baking sheet.
3. Season with salt and any other desired spices.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

4. Raw Banana Curry

A Savory Delight

Raw banana curry is a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs well with rice or roti. The bananas absorb the spices, making for a unique and satisfying meal.

Recipe

• 2 raw bananas, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onions until translucent.
2. Add the tomatoes, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until tomatoes are soft.
3. Add the diced raw bananas and stir to coat with the spices.
4. Cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the bananas are tender.

5. Raw Banana Flour

A Versatile Ingredient

Raw banana flour is a fantastic gluten-free alternative to regular flour. It can be used in baking or as a thickening agent for soups and sauces.

How to Use

• In Baking: Substitute raw banana flour for regular flour in recipes like muffins, breads, or pancakes.
• As a Thickener: Mix a tablespoon of raw banana flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry and add it to soups or sauces to thicken them.

6. Raw Banana Salad

A Refreshing Side Dish

A raw banana salad is a fresh and crunchy addition to any meal. The bananas add a unique texture and flavor to the salad.

Recipe

• 2 raw bananas, peeled and diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the diced bananas, cucumber, bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss gently to combine and serve chilled.

7. Raw Banana Smoothie Bowl

A Delicious and Filling Breakfast

A raw banana smoothie bowl is a thicker version of a smoothie, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or snack. Top it with your favorite fruits, nuts, and seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Recipe

• 1 raw banana
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Blend the raw banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and honey until smooth.
2. Pour into a bowl and top with fresh fruit, granola, and seeds.

8. Raw Banana Fritters

A Tasty Treat

Raw banana fritters are a savory snack that’s easy to prepare. They’re perfect as an appetizer or a side dish.

Recipe

• 2 raw bananas, peeled and mashed
• 1/2 cup chickpea flour
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the mashed bananas with chickpea flour, onions, chilies, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a pan and drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil.
3. Fry until golden brown and crispy, then drain on paper towels.

9. Raw Banana Soup

A Hearty and Nutritious Soup

Raw banana soup is a unique and comforting dish. The bananas add a subtle sweetness and thickness to the soup.

Recipe

• 2 raw bananas, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 liter vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté the onion, garlic, and carrot until soft.
2. Add the diced bananas and vegetable broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Blend the soup until smooth and season with salt and pepper.

Conclusion

Incorporating raw bananas into your daily diet can be both delicious and beneficial. From smoothies and pancakes to savory dishes and snacks, raw bananas offer a range of possibilities. They are packed with nutrients and can add variety to your meals. Try out these nine simple ideas and discover how versatile and enjoyable raw bananas can be.

FAQs

1. Are raw bananas the same as ripe bananas?

No, raw bananas (or green bananas) are less sweet and have a starchy texture compared to ripe bananas, which are sweeter and softer.

2. Can I eat raw bananas without cooking them?

Yes, raw bananas can be eaten raw, but they are often cooked to enhance their flavor and texture.

3. How can I store raw bananas?

Store raw bananas at room temperature until they ripen. Once ripe, they can be stored in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.

4. Are there any health benefits to eating raw bananas?

Yes, raw bananas are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can aid digestion, support heart health, and provide a good source of energy.

5. Can I use raw banana flour in gluten-free baking?

Absolutely! Raw banana flour is a great gluten-free alternative to regular flour and can be used in various baking recipes.

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