Banana Ice Cream

Banana Ice Cream Recipe from Jamaica - Milk, Custard Powder, Condensed Milk, and More

Region / culture: Jamaica | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 3 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Banana Ice Cream is a delightful and creamy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich, indulgent texture of traditional ice cream. This recipe offers a homemade approach to creating a frozen treat that is both satisfying and relatively simple to make. With its combination of whole milk, custard, and ripe bananas, this ice cream is a perfect way to enjoy a classic flavor with a homemade touch.

History

The concept of fruit-flavored ice creams has been around for centuries, with early versions dating back to the iced fruit desserts enjoyed in ancient Rome and China. However, the specific history of banana ice cream is more modern, likely evolving with the popularization of ice cream in the 19th and 20th centuries. As bananas became more widely available, their incorporation into ice cream became a natural progression, leading to the delicious recipe we enjoy today.

Ingredients

How to prepare

In a bowl, mix custard powder with a little milk until it forms a paste.
In a saucepan, bring the remaining milk to a boil and stir in the custard paste and beaten egg yolks.
Cook the mixture over low heat for 3 minutes.
Continue stirring until the mixture cools down, then add condensed milk, evaporated milk, and banana puree.
Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and allow it to freeze until very firm.
Line the container with wax paper, leaving an overhang at the edges.
Cover the container and store it in the freezer.

Variations

Consider adding mix-ins such as chocolate chips, nuts, or swirls of caramel for additional flavors and textures. For a vegan version, substitute the milk and eggs with coconut milk and a banana-based custard.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the smoothest texture for your banana ice cream, make sure to puree the bananas thoroughly. For an even creamier consistency, consider using ripe bananas, as they are softer and sweeter. Additionally, chilling the mixture in the refrigerator before transferring it to the freezer can help improve the texture of the final product.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the banana ice cream in waffle cones for a classic ice cream parlor experience, or dish it into bowls and drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat. Garnishing with sliced bananas or a sprinkle of nuts can add texture and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the custard base, which involves tempering the egg yolks with hot milk to create a smooth, thickened mixture. Slow cooking and constant stirring are crucial to prevent the eggs from scrambling.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk, condensed milk, and evaporated milk with almond milk or coconut milk. Agar powder can be used in place of custard powder for a vegetarian option.

Make Ahead Tips

This ice cream can be made ahead and stored in the freezer for up to a month. For best texture, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the ice cream in hollowed-out banana halves for a fun and natural presentation. Top with fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Banana ice cream pairs wonderfully with desserts like warm brownies or apple pie. For a beverage pairing, consider a sweet dessert wine or a rich, dark coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the banana ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. There is no need to reheat, but let it soften at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if it becomes too hard.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of banana ice cream contains approximately 250 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates and fats in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

A serving of banana ice cream contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the natural sugars in the bananas and the added sweetened condensed milk.

Fats

This banana ice cream recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the whole milk and egg yolks. Using lower-fat milk options can reduce the fat content if desired.

Proteins

Each serving of banana ice cream provides around 5 grams of protein, contributed by the milk, egg yolks, and to a lesser extent, the custard powder.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana ice cream is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, all of which are naturally present in bananas. The milk and eggs also add calcium and Vitamin D to the nutritional profile.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (milk) and eggs. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this ice cream or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, banana ice cream is a delicious treat that offers a moderate amount of calories, fats, and proteins, along with beneficial vitamins and minerals from the bananas. It's a dessert that can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Banana Ice Cream is a timeless and versatile dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the creamy richness of traditional ice cream. This recipe is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. With various serving suggestions and the possibility for customization, it's a perfect treat for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe. It was a hot summer day, the sun beating down on our little farmhouse as I sat on the porch swing, fanning myself with a handkerchief. My dear friend Martha had come over for a visit, and she had brought with her a delicious treat to help us cool off.

As Martha handed me a bowl of creamy, sweet banana ice cream, I couldn't believe how delicious it tasted. The smooth texture, the rich flavor of ripe bananas - it was unlike anything I had ever tried before. I asked her for the recipe, eager to learn how to make this delectable dessert for myself.

Martha laughed and told me that the recipe had been passed down in her family for generations. She explained that it was a simple yet time-honored recipe, made with just a few ingredients that were likely already in my pantry. She promised to teach me how to make it the next time she came over, and I eagerly agreed.

The following week, Martha returned to our farmhouse with all the ingredients needed to make the banana ice cream. We peeled and mashed ripe bananas, mixed in sugar and cream, and added a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. As we churned the mixture in an old-fashioned ice cream maker, the sweet scent of ripe bananas filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

After what seemed like hours, the ice cream was finally ready. We scooped it into bowls and topped it with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a bit of crunch. As I took my first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made this banana ice cream recipe countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition that Martha had shared with me so many years ago.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that hot summer day and the joy of making homemade banana ice cream, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipes that have been passed down to me over the years. Each one holds a special place in my heart, a connection to the past and to the loved ones who have taught me so much about the art of cooking.

So the next time you find yourself craving a sweet, creamy treat on a hot summer day, remember this recipe for banana ice cream. It may just become a favorite in your own kitchen, a tradition to be passed down to future generations, just as it has been in mine.