Banana Dessert

Cambodian Banana Dessert Recipe with Coconut and Ginger

Region / culture: Cambodia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This Banana Dessert recipe is a delightful concoction that combines the tropical sweetness of bananas with the rich, aromatic flavors of coconut, ginger, and citrus. It's a dish that promises to transport your taste buds to an exotic paradise with every bite. Perfect for a sophisticated dinner finale or a cozy treat, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this guide will help you create a dessert that's sure to impress.

History

The origins of this Banana Dessert can be traced back to tropical regions where bananas, coconut, and citrus fruits are abundant. Over the years, it has evolved, incorporating ingredients like orange liqueur and sesame seeds, which add depth and complexity to its flavor profile. This recipe is a testament to the fusion of different culinary traditions, showcasing how simple ingredients can be transformed into a sumptuous dessert.

Ingredients

3 tbsp shredded fresh coconut
60 g/2 oz unsalted butter
1 tbsp grated ginger root
grated zest of 1 orange
6 bananas
60 g/2 oz caster sugar
4 tbsp fresh lime juice
6 tbsp orange liqueur
3 tsp toasted sesame seeds
lime slices to decorate
ice-cream

How to prepare

Heat a small non-stick frying pan over high heat. Add the coconut and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Remove from the pan and let it cool.
Heat the butter in a large frying pan until melted. Add the ginger and orange zest, and mix well.
Peel and slice the bananas lengthwise.
Place the bananas cut-side down in the butter mixture and cook for 1–2 minutes or until the sauce starts to thicken. Turn the bananas to coat them in the sauce.
Remove the bananas from the pan and place them on heated serving plates. Keep them warm.
Return the pan to the heat and add the orange liqueur, stirring well to combine.
Ignite the mixture with a taper, allow the flames to die down, then pour it over the bananas.
Sprinkle with the coconut and sesame seeds, and serve immediately. Decorate with slices of lime.
Add chocolate syrup as desired.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try substituting the orange liqueur with rum or brandy. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sauce for a warm, spicy note.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, use ripe but firm bananas that will hold their shape when cooked. Browning the coconut lightly before adding it to the dish will enhance its flavor and texture. When igniting the orange liqueur, always use caution and keep a lid nearby to extinguish the flame if necessary. For an extra glossy sauce, you can add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the pan before adding the liqueur.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is best served warm, with a dollop of fresh cream on the side. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with lime slices and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the flambéing of the orange liqueur, which not only adds a dramatic flair to the presentation but also enhances the flavor of the sauce. Careful attention to the cooking of the bananas is crucial to ensure they are tender but not mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil can be used in place of butter. For a lower sugar version, reduce the amount of caster sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Make Ahead Tips

While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the coconut and sesame seed topping ahead of time. The bananas can also be pre-sliced and stored in an airtight container with a bit of lime juice to prevent browning.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dessert on a warm plate to keep the bananas tender. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of edible flowers can add an extra touch of sophistication to the presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Banana Dessert pairs beautifully with a glass of dessert wine, such as a Sauternes or a Moscato. The sweetness of the wine complements the rich flavors of the dessert perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the bananas in a pan over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this Banana Dessert contains approximately 300 calories. The majority of these calories come from the sugars and fats in the recipe, making it a high-energy dessert option.

Carbohydrates

This Banana Dessert is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the natural sugars in bananas and the added caster sugar. A single serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from sugars, making this dish an energy-rich option for a special treat.

Fats

The unsalted butter and coconut in the recipe contribute to its fat content, with a single serving containing about 15 grams of fat. The majority of this is saturated fat due to the nature of the ingredients used. However, the dish can be made slightly healthier by substituting the butter with a lower-fat alternative if desired.

Proteins

This dessert is not a significant source of protein, containing only about 2 grams per serving. The primary focus of this dish is its rich, sweet flavor profile rather than its protein content.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas are a good source of vitamins C and B6, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. The addition of lime and orange juice also contributes small amounts of vitamin C, enhancing the nutritional value of the dessert.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as dairy (butter) and may not be suitable for individuals with a nut allergy due to the coconut. Always check with guests for any dietary restrictions before serving.

Summary

While this Banana Dessert is rich in flavors and textures, it is also high in sugars and fats. It's best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of one's diet. However, its content of vitamins and minerals from the fruits used does provide some nutritional benefits.

Summary

This Banana Dessert is a celebration of tropical flavors, combining the sweetness of bananas with the richness of coconut and the zestiness of citrus. While indulgent, it's a dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and occasions. With its elegant presentation and complex flavor profile, it's sure to become a favorite for those special moments that call for something truly extraordinary.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Banana Dessert. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my Aunt Ruthie's house in the countryside. Aunt Ruthie was known for her amazing cooking skills, and I always looked forward to spending time with her in the kitchen.

As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of bananas and cinnamon. Aunt Ruthie was busy peeling ripe bananas and slicing them into a bowl. She smiled at me and said, "I'm making my famous Banana Dessert today. Would you like to help me?"

I eagerly nodded and pulled up a chair next to her. Aunt Ruthie began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. It was a simple yet delicious dessert that never failed to impress guests.

As we worked together, Aunt Ruthie guided me through the steps of making the Banana Dessert. We mashed the ripe bananas with a fork until they were smooth and creamy. Then, we added a dash of cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar to sweeten the mixture.

Next, Aunt Ruthie showed me how to make the crumble topping. We mixed flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter together until it formed a crumbly texture. She explained that the topping would add a lovely crunch to the dessert once it was baked.

After assembling the dessert in a baking dish, we popped it into the oven and waited for it to bake. The kitchen filled with the irresistible scent of caramelized bananas and cinnamon. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the dessert was ready, Aunt Ruthie pulled it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The crumble topping had turned a golden brown, and the bananas were bubbling with sweetness. She scooped out a generous portion onto two plates and handed one to me.

I took a bite of the warm Banana Dessert and was immediately transported to dessert heaven. The bananas were soft and gooey, with a hint of spice from the cinnamon. The crumble topping added a delightful crunch that complemented the creamy filling perfectly.

Aunt Ruthie smiled at me as I savored every bite. "What do you think?" she asked.

I couldn't contain my excitement. "It's amazing! I've never tasted anything like it before."

Aunt Ruthie chuckled and patted my hand. "That's the magic of family recipes. They carry stories and memories that make them taste even better."

From that day on, I knew that the Banana Dessert would become a staple in my own kitchen. Whenever I made it, I would think of Aunt Ruthie and the special bond we shared over a shared love of cooking.

Years passed, and I continued to perfect the recipe for Banana Dessert. I added my own twist by incorporating a splash of rum into the filling, which gave it a boozy kick that was simply irresistible. Friends and family would rave about the dessert whenever I served it, and I always made sure to credit Aunt Ruthie for teaching me the secret to its success.

As time went on, I began to experiment with different variations of the Banana Dessert. I tried adding nuts and dried fruit to the crumble topping, which added an extra layer of flavor and texture. I even once served it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, creating a decadent dessert that was fit for a special occasion.

But no matter how many variations I tried, the original recipe that Aunt Ruthie had taught me remained my favorite. It was a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring to our lives, and I cherished every opportunity to share it with others.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scents of bananas and cinnamon, I can't help but smile as I remember that warm summer day with Aunt Ruthie. The recipe for Banana Dessert has become more than just a dish – it's a symbol of the memories and traditions that we pass down through the generations.

And as I take a bite of the freshly baked dessert, I know that Aunt Ruthie's spirit lives on in every delicious mouthful. The magic of family recipes is truly a gift that keeps on giving, connecting us to our past and inspiring us to create new memories for the future.