How to Make Caramelized Fried Bananas

Bananas can be eaten many ways, including fried.

Bananas were not commonly seen in the United States until the beginning of the 20th century. In 1903, refrigerated boats were used for the first time to safely transport perishable food, including bananas, from tropical regions. The banana, which becomes more starchy and sweet as it ripens, is a very versatile fruit. It can be eaten many ways, including sliced and added to fruit salads, baked into breads and muffins, grilled, fried or simply peeled and eaten plain.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 2 firm peeled bananas
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Medium shallow bowl
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tbsp. butter
• Large nonstick skillet
• Spatula
• Serving platter

1. Cut two peeled bananas in half across the center, then cut each half lengthwise.

2. Pour the sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll the bananas in the bowl until they are coated with sugar.

3. Melt the butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully put the banana slices in the skillet with the cut side down.

4. Saute the banana slices on one side for approximately 30 to 45 seconds or until the cooked sides are golden brown. The color is the result of caramelized sugar from the sugar coating, as well as the banana's natural sugar.

5. Turn the banana slices with a spatula and continue cooking for an additional 30 to 45 seconds, again watching for the bananas to cook to a golden brown color.

6. Remove the bananas from the skillet with the spatula. Place the slices on a serving platter to cool.

Tips & Warnings

• If serving caramelized fried bananas for dessert, consider serving them with a scoop of ice cream or frozen yogurt.

• Breakfast dishes, such as pancakes or waffles, can be topped with fried bananas.

• Do not overcook the bananas or they will become too soft. "Eating Well" recommends an overall cooking time of 90 seconds or less.

References

• "Good Eats 2: The Middle Years"; Alton Brown; 2010
• Purdue University; Horticulture and Landscape Architecture; Banana; Julia F. Morton; 1987
• Epicurious: Pecan Waffles with Caramelized Bananas
• "Eating Well"; Caramelized Bananas; Winter 2004

Resources

• "North County Times"; Butter and Bananas Add Fresh Take to Bruschetta; J.M. Hirsch; August 4, 2011
• NPR; Grilling Your Dessert; Natalie Y. Moore; June 21, 2006