Banana Coconut treat

Banana Coconut Treat Recipe - Caribbean Cuisine

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Banana Coconut Treat is a simple, yet delicious dessert that combines the tropical flavors of banana and coconut with a hint of citrus from orange. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick and healthy treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Its simplicity makes it accessible to cooks of all levels, and its natural sweetness is a hit among both adults and children.

History

The Banana Coconut Treat has its roots in tropical regions where bananas, coconuts, and oranges are abundant. While it's difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of this recipe, it's a testament to the traditional practice of combining locally available fruits to create simple, nourishing desserts. Over time, this recipe has traveled across the globe, gaining popularity for its ease of preparation and refreshing taste.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Peel the bananas.
If desired, cut off the ends.
Squeeze the orange over the 2 bananas to make the coconut stick.
Roll the bananas in the coconut and serve.

Variations

For a chocolatey version, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the coated bananas before serving. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas may become mushy when rolled in coconut. For the coconut coating, both shredded and desiccated coconut work well, but toasted coconut can add an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can lightly drizzle honey or maple syrup over the bananas before rolling them in coconut.

Serving Suggestions

This treat can be served immediately after preparation or chilled in the refrigerator for a refreshing summer dessert. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.

Cooking Techniques

No cooking is required for this recipe, making it an excellent option for raw food enthusiasts and those looking for quick and easy dessert options.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're not a fan of coconut, crushed nuts like almonds or pecans make a great alternative. For a citrus twist, lime or lemon can be used in place of orange.

Make Ahead Tips

These treats can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, add the coconut coating just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these treats on skewers for a fun and elegant presentation. Garnish with mint leaves or edible flowers for an extra touch of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Banana Coconut Treat with a light and fruity white wine, such as a Riesling or a Moscato, for a delightful dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

These treats are best enjoyed fresh and do not require reheating. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Banana Coconut Treat contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie dessert option that's satisfying and nutritious.

Carbohydrates

This Banana Coconut Treat is a good source of carbohydrates, with each serving providing approximately 30 grams. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the natural sugars in the bananas and orange, making it an energy-boosting snack.

Fats

Thanks to the coconut, this treat also contains healthy fats. Each serving has about 14 grams of fat, most of which are medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) from the coconut. MCTs are known for their energy-boosting properties and may help in weight management.

Proteins

While not a high-protein dish, each serving of Banana Coconut Treat provides about 2 grams of protein. For a protein boost, consider pairing it with a handful of nuts or a serving of Greek yogurt.

Vitamins and minerals

This treat is rich in various vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the orange and potassium from the bananas. It also provides a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.

Alergens

The main allergens to be aware of in this recipe are coconuts. Individuals with a tree nut allergy should avoid this treat or consult with a healthcare provider before consuming.

Summary

Overall, the Banana Coconut Treat is a nutritious option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a guilt-free dessert that can fit into a balanced diet.

Summary

The Banana Coconut Treat is a delightful and nutritious dessert that combines the tropical flavors of banana, coconut, and orange. It's easy to make, requires no cooking, and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a light dessert, this treat is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Banana Coconut Treat. It was a warm summer day, just like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Rosemary. She was known for her incredible baking skills and always had a new recipe up her sleeve. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, a tantalizing aroma filled the air, and my stomach grumbled in anticipation.

Rosemary greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have a new recipe to share with you today, my dear," she said, pulling out a worn and stained recipe card from her recipe box. I leaned in closer to get a better look and saw the words "Banana Coconut Treat" written in elegant script at the top of the card.

As Rosemary began to read off the ingredients and instructions, I could feel my mouth watering. The combination of ripe bananas, sweet coconut, and warm spices sounded like a match made in dessert heaven. I couldn't wait to give it a try myself.

After she finished reading the recipe, Rosemary handed me the card and said, "I know how much you love trying out new recipes, my dear. I thought you might enjoy this one." I thanked her profusely and tucked the card into my purse, already making plans to make it for my family that evening.

When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work on the Banana Coconut Treat. The smell of ripe bananas and coconut filled my kitchen as I mixed the batter and poured it into a baking dish. As I slid the dish into the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation.

The timer beeped, signaling that the Banana Coconut Treat was ready. I carefully removed it from the oven and let it cool before slicing it into squares. The first bite was pure bliss - the sweetness of the bananas, the chewiness of the coconut, and the hint of cinnamon and nutmeg all combined to create a truly decadent treat.

I couldn't wait to share it with my family. As they took their first bites, their eyes widened in delight, and soon the entire pan was devoured. My husband declared it to be the best dessert I had ever made, and my children begged me to make it again soon.

From that day on, the Banana Coconut Treat became a staple in our household. I made it for every special occasion, from birthdays to holidays, and it never failed to impress. Friends and neighbors would often stop by just to sample a piece and ask for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a splash of rum to the batter or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. But the core ingredients and the memories of that day with Rosemary remain the same.

I am forever grateful to my dear friend for sharing the recipe for Banana Coconut Treat with me. It has brought so much joy and deliciousness into my life, and I will always cherish the day I first learned to make it.