Are you tired of using bananas only in sweet dishes like smoothies, baked goods, or desserts? Think again! Bananas can be used to create a wide variety of delicious and savory dishes that will surprise your taste buds. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering savory banana recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From curries and pancakes to sandwiches and soups, bananas add natural sweetness and creamy texture to many different types of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a more substantial meal, these recipes have got you covered. So, get ready to think outside the box (or peel!) and discover the many uses of bananas in savory cooking.
Banana and Chickpea Curry
This unique curry combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a flavorful blend of spices. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or as a vegetarian option for a potluck.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, 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 coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, and bananas. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the bananas are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Banana Pancakes with Herbs
Elevate your breakfast game with these savory banana pancakes infused with fresh herbs. The sweetness of ripe bananas pairs perfectly with the earthy flavors of thyme and parsley, making for a delightful morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, mashed bananas, and eggs.
2. Add olive oil, thyme, and parsley; mix until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
5. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (4-6 pancakes)
Grilled Banana and Cheese Sandwich
Take your sandwich game to the next level with this sweet and savory twist: caramelized bananas and melted cheese, grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone)
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a slice of cheese and a few slices of banana (caramelized by cooking for 2-3 minutes per side).
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Banana and Bacon Stuffed Peppers
This unique recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the smoky flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a crunchy bell pepper package. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together banana slices, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
4. Stuff each pepper with the banana-bacon mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Banana Salsa with Tortilla Chips
Add a twist to your snack time with this unique and flavorful Spicy Banana Salsa! This sweet and spicy combination is perfect for those who love a little heat in their snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
– 6-8 tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine bananas, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle salt to taste and stir well.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (chilling time)
Banana and Coconut Milk Soup
This comforting soup combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich creaminess of coconut milk, perfect for a warm and cozy treat on a chilly day. With its velvety texture and subtle tropical flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender.
2. Add the coconut milk, broth, honey, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or seasoning if desired.
5. Heat the soup over low heat, whisking constantly, until warmed through (about 10 minutes).
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the comforting warmth of red lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its creamy texture and subtle tropical flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup red 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, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Add the sliced bananas and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they release their natural sweetness.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Banana Fritters with Dipping Sauce
A twist on traditional banana fritters, these savory bites are perfect for a unique snack or appetizer. The combination of ripe bananas, crunchy pecans, and tangy cheese creates a delightful flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Mash bananas in a bowl and mix with flour, cheese, and pecans.
2. Beat the egg and add to the banana mixture; stir until combined.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown; flip and cook for another minute.
6. Remove fritters from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– Mix 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley.
– Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors by stuffing chicken breasts with a mixture of ripe bananas, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese. The result is a moist and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed bananas, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the banana-spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Banana and Peanut Butter Hummus
Transform classic hummus into a deliciously unique treat by adding ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter. This sweet and savory snack is perfect for satisfying your cravings or as a healthy alternative to traditional dips.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, peanut butter, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
2. Add the ripe banana and blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if desired.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika or chopped nuts, if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Banana and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the earthy flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a unique and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the black beans, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Slice the bananas into coins and add them to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the bananas are slightly caramelized.
6. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the tacos by spooning the banana-black bean mixture into the shells and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana and Tomato Chutney
This unique chutney combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the tanginess of tomatoes, perfect for serving alongside grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Peel the bananas and add them to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Banana and Avocado Salad with Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy texture of avocados, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch slices and set aside.
2. Peel the avocado and dice it into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the banana slices and avocado pieces.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the banana-avocado mixture and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Banana and Mushroom Risotto
This unique risotto recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, creating a deliciously complex dish that’s perfect for adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the sliced banana and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana and Tofu Stir-Fry
This unique stir-fry combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the protein-rich goodness of tofu, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced banana and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
5. Pour the sauce into the skillet or wok and stir to combine with the tofu and banana.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Banana and Sweet Potato Mash
This creamy mash combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the earthy goodness of sweet potatoes, making it a unique and delicious side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked through
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. Scoop out the flesh and mash in a bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, honey, and salt. Mix until smooth.
5. Add the banana mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until well combined.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes (for sweet potatoes) + 5 minutes (for assembly)
Banana and Cornbread Muffins
Moist banana bread meets crumbly cornbread in these scrumptious muffins, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the warmth of cornbread spices.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, cumin, salt, and baking soda. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Banana and Cheddar Cheese Quesadillas
Take a classic quesadilla recipe to the next level by adding ripe bananas and sharp cheddar cheese for a unique flavor combination. This sweet and savory twist is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each tortilla.
3. Place one tortilla, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with sliced bananas and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Summary
Get ready to go bananas with these 18 delicious savory banana recipes! From curries and pancakes to sandwiches, peppers, and more, this collection has something for everyone. Try Banana and Chickpea Curry or Grilled Banana and Cheese Sandwich for a twist on classic comfort food. Or go bold with Spicy Banana Salsa or Banana and Bacon Stuffed Peppers. And don’t forget sweet treats like Banana and Coconut Milk Soup or Banana and Peanut Butter Hummus. There’s something for every taste bud in this amazing array of savory banana recipes.
