What Is the Difference Between a Banana & a Plantain?

Plantains resemble green bananas.

Plantains are sometimes confused with bananas, but there are significant differences between the two. Although the plantain is a member of the banana family, it looks and tastes different.

Appearance

Plantains are noticeably longer than bananas with thicker skins. At first glance, a plantain looks like a large unripe banana. Most plantains sold in the produce section of the supermarket are green, but they can also be black in color.

Where Grown

Plantains are grown in mostly tropical climates and are native to India. They grow best where there are constant warm temperatures and protection from wind. Bananas are grown throughout the tropics and are native to Southeast Asia.

How They Are Used

Plantains are not sweet. They are considered a vegetable, not a fruit. They are starchy, low in sugar and need to be cooked before they are eaten and can be used as a main dish or part of a side dish. In the Caribbean, plantains are often baked or fried. Bananas can be eaten raw or cooked.

References

• Grab 'em Snacks: What is a Plantain?

Resources

• Difference Between: Differences Between Plantain and Banana