2023-04-27 19:37:55
Did you know that there are different bananas? The most traded bananas are the yellow Cavendish bananas. Nevertheless, there are more than 100 varieties. We present here the red banana.
The red banana is not marketed on a large scale, but it is a type of fruit with growing demand. This is partly due to its smaller size, dense texture and sweet taste.
It is believed to originate from India or Malaysia, where it has been growing wild for centuries. Later, its cultivation spread to other regions, such as Australia, North Africa and Southeast Asia. The red banana has also reached Europe, where it is grown in the Canary Islands.
For many people it is an unknown fruit, because it is not available in all markets. If you want to know more about its benefits and its differences with the yellow banana, then continue reading!
What are the characteristics of the red banana and how does it differ from the yellow banana?
The red banana is botanically known as Musa acuminé Red Dacca. But depending on its place of origin, it may have other names, such as spanish red banana, cuban red, lal kela or colorado.
You should know that it is not a genetically modified fruit. It is in fact a natural group within the banana tree, which has appeared over the years through cultivation and biological selection.
The red banana is shorter and thicker than the variety cavendish (the most common variety among yellow bananas). Its skin is hard and its color oscillates between bright red and orange-yellow. Its color will depend on the antioxidant pigments it contains.
The main distinguishing feature of this type of banana is, of course, the color of the peel. The pulp is it yellow or ivory. It is also soft, creamy, sweet and its aroma is reminiscent of raspberry and mango.
The benefits and properties of the red banana
There are a few misconceptions about bananas in general. We often hear that it is an unhealthy or high-calorie fruit.
Bananas are a nutritious food that can have many positive health effects. The same is true for the red banana.
Nutrient intake
In the composition of the yellow or red banana, carbohydrates dominate. Proteins and fats are found in small proportions. In addition, this fruit contains remarkable amounts of fiber, potassium and vitamin B6.
Energy source
In the red banana, there are three different types of sugars:
- Fructose
- Sucrose
- Glucose
This composition makes it a fast but durable energy provider. These bananas are ideal for children, people with a great physical activity or to consume after the practice of a sport.
Digestive well-being
When the fruit is immature, a significant portion of its carbohydrates exists in the form of starch. However, with maturation, these carbohydrates turn into simpler sugars. For this reason, it becomes a soft and easily digestible fruit.
In addition, the red banana contains dietary fiber in the form of inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides. These cannot be digested and reach the colon intact, where they are fermented by intestinal bacteria. They thus help to improve intestinal transit and have prebiotic properties.
Nervous and immune system
Pyridoxine (or vitamin B6) is necessary for brain development and normal functioning of the nervous system. In addition, it participates in the formation of antibodies.
Cardiovascular health
The red banana is an excellent source of potassium. This mineral facilitates the contraction of muscles and the regular beating of the heart. Plus, it compensates for excess sodium in the diet, which can help maintain normal blood pressure.
Antioxidants
Like many fruits and vegetables, red banana contains antioxidants. Some of them are even present in greater quantities than in the yellow varieties. This is the case of beta-carotene, alpha-carotene and lutein.
Antioxidants are substances that prevent cell damage and neutralize the harmful effect of free radicals. The latter, when they exceed the antioxidant capacity of the body, are linked to aging.
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How to eat red banana? Possible uses in the kitchen
One of the easiest ways to consume this banana is in its natural state, after peeling it. Plus, thanks to their size and easy handling, these bananas are perfect for taking out of the house and as mid-morning or afternoon snacks.
It is also possible to cut them into slices and add them to certain dishes. They are excellent to combine with other fruits in fruit salads or as kebabs. They are also a perfect garnish or decoration for ice cream, cereal and oatmeal pancakes.
Thanks to their creamy and sweet pulp, they are incorporated into desserts. They also bring a creamy texture to smoothies, milkshakes and mousses. Plus, they can be used to naturally sweeten all kinds of cookies and cakes.
But the culinary possibilities of the banana do not stop there, since it is possible to serve them in the form of chips salted for a delicious appetizer. In some countries, bananas are even used to cook curries and stewed chicken recipes.
To taste red bananas in optimal conditions, they must be ripe, otherwise they will be very dry and their texture can be unpleasant. The presence of brown spots on the skin is one of the signs of maturity.
At home, they keep well at room temperature for 2 to 10 days. It is necessary to keep them out of the sun, and they do not need refrigeration.
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Red banana is a healthy fruit to include in the diet
Bananas are enjoyed by almost everyone. They are delicious, easy to eat and add texture to many recipes. The red variety is a unique fruit that shares all of its nutrients and properties with the yellow variety.
When part of a healthy diet, bananas provide heart benefits, are antioxidants, and promote satiety and bowel movement. They are ideal to consume at any age and at any time of life.
The uses of red bananas are multiple, since they are as versatile as yellow bananas. If you lack ideas, tell yourself that these bananas can replace yellow bananas in all your usual preparations.
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