Banana Bread VII

Guatemalan Banana Bread VII Recipe | All-Purpose Flour, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, and Lime Juice

Region / culture: Guatemala | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 70-80 minutes (large pan) or 55-60 minutes (smaller pans) | Servings: 1 loaf

Introduction

Banana Bread VII is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread recipe, incorporating the unique flavors of lime peel and lime juice to elevate the taste. This recipe is perfect for those who love the moist, sweet flavor of traditional banana bread but are looking for something a little different. The addition of spices like cinnamon and allspice, along with the tanginess of lime, makes this banana bread a memorable treat for any occasion.

History

The origins of banana bread can be traced back to the 1930s, a time when baking soda and baking powder became popular, and resourceful housewives sought ways to use overripe bananas. However, this particular version, Banana Bread VII, with its inclusion of lime, represents a modern twist on the classic, showcasing how traditional recipes can be adapted over time to incorporate new flavors and ingredients.

Ingredients

2.5 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 cup sugar
0.5 cup packed brown sugar
3.5 tsp baking powder
0.33 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp ground allspice
1.25 cups mashed bananas (2 large)
0.25 cup milk
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large egg
1.5 tsp grated lime peel
1 tbsp fresh lime juice

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease the bottom only of a 9x5x3 loaf pan or 2 pans of 8.5x4 0.5x2.5 inches.
These smaller pan sizes are commonly used for baking holiday bread.
In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients and beat for 30 seconds.
Pour the mixture into the pan and bake until a wooden pick comes out clean.
For a large pan, bake for about 70 – 80 minutes. For smaller pans, bake for 55–60 minutes.
Allow the loaf to cool slightly.
Loosen the sides of the loaf from the pan and remove it.
Let the loaf cool completely before slicing.
To store, wrap the loaf and refrigerate for no longer than 1 week.

Variations

For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you prefer a chocolatey twist, incorporate chocolate chips. For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use almond milk and a plant-based oil.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your banana bread comes out perfectly moist and flavorful, use bananas that are very ripe—the darker, the better. Mashing the bananas thoroughly is key to a smooth batter. When adding the lime peel and juice, ensure they are well incorporated to distribute the tangy flavor evenly. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Banana Bread VII warm or at room temperature, sliced, with a spread of butter or cream cheese for added richness. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or afternoon snack.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the careful mixing of wet and dry ingredients to ensure a moist, tender crumb without overworking the batter. Baking at a moderate temperature allows the bread to cook through evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, though it may result in a denser bread. Maple syrup or honey can substitute for the sugars for a more natural sweetness. Coconut oil can replace vegetable oil for a slight coconut flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Banana Bread VII can be made ahead and stored, wrapped tightly, at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread, wrapped in plastic and then foil, for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, dust the top of the banana bread with powdered sugar or a drizzle of lime glaze. Serve on a decorative plate with slices of fresh banana and lime zest for garnish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Banana Bread VII with a light, fruity white wine such as Riesling or a dessert wine for a sophisticated dessert option. For a non-alcoholic pairing, a citrus-infused herbal tea complements the lime flavors in the bread beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Banana Bread VII wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave briefly until just warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Banana Bread VII contains approximately 280 calories. The calories come from a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a satisfying snack or dessert option.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Banana Bread VII contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The sugars from the bananas and added sugars contribute to the carbohydrate content, providing energy for the body.

Fats

This recipe contains a moderate amount of fat, with about 7 grams per serving, primarily from the vegetable oil and the egg. These fats contribute to the bread's moist texture.

Proteins

Each serving of Banana Bread VII offers around 4 grams of protein, coming from the egg and a small amount from the flour. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana Bread VII is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including potassium from the bananas, calcium from the milk, and various B vitamins from the flour and egg. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (gluten) from the flour, dairy from the milk, and eggs. Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should take caution.

Summary

Overall, Banana Bread VII is a delicious, moderately nutritious option for those looking for a sweet treat. It provides energy from carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a modest amount of protein, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Banana Bread VII is a delightful, modern take on the classic banana bread, with the addition of lime adding a refreshing twist. This recipe is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits, making it a great option for a variety of occasions. With tips for making, serving, and storing, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just come back from a visit to the local farmers market. As I was unpacking my bags, I noticed a small, weathered piece of paper wedged in between the fruits and vegetables. Curious, I unfolded it and to my delight, it was a recipe for Banana Bread VII.

I couldn't remember where I had picked up the recipe, but it looked like it had been passed down from generation to generation. The paper was yellowed with age, and the ink was faded, but the ingredients and instructions were clear and concise. I could tell that this recipe was something special.

I immediately set to work in my kitchen, gathering the ripe bananas, flour, sugar, and other ingredients needed to make the Banana Bread VII. As I mashed the bananas and mixed the batter, a sense of nostalgia washed over me. I thought about all the recipes I had collected over the years, each one telling a story of its own.

As the bread baked in the oven, the sweet aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result. When it was finally done, I let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. The bread was moist and tender, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday mornings. Each time I made it, I thought about the mysterious origins of the recipe and the hands that had passed it down through the years.

Over time, I made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of walnuts to make it my own. But the essence of the Banana Bread VII remained the same – a delicious treat that brought joy to all who tasted it.

As I grew older, I realized that the true beauty of cooking lies in the stories behind the recipes. Each dish tells a tale of love, tradition, and heritage, connecting us to our past and bringing us closer to those who came before us. And so, every time I make Banana Bread VII, I remember that warm summer day when I stumbled upon the recipe and how it brought a little piece of history into my kitchen.

Now, as I pass the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, I hope that they will cherish it as much as I have. I hope that they will make it with love and share it with others, creating new memories and traditions along the way.

So here's to Banana Bread VII, a recipe that has stood the test of time and brought joy to countless generations. May it continue to be a symbol of love, family, and the power of a good homemade treat. And may its sweet aroma forever linger in our hearts and homes.