Banana Tea Loaf

Introduction

History

The Banana Tea Loaf has its roots in the early 20th century when bananas became widely available in the United States and Europe. Initially, bananas were an exotic fruit, but with the advent of refrigerated shipping, they became more accessible. The recipe for banana bread, a close relative of the Banana Tea Loaf, first appeared in cookbooks in the 1930s during the Great Depression as a way to use up overripe bananas. Over time, various versions of the recipe have emerged, including this delightful tea loaf variation.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Notes

1. To cut down on cholesterol use 1 whole egg and 2 whites, or home made egg substitute.
2. When comparing bread recipes, consider serving size as well as calories.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Banana Tea Loaf turns out perfectly moist and flavorful, use bananas that are very ripe—the darker, the better. This not only makes the loaf sweeter but also easier to mix. For an even distribution of flavors, mix the dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them. Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender. Lastly, checking the loaf with a toothpick or a knife inserted in the center for doneness will help you avoid a soggy middle or an overly dry loaf.

Serving Suggestions

Banana Tea Loaf can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a mid-morning snack or afternoon tea. For a dessert option, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also toast slices of the loaf and spread them with butter or cream cheese for a delightful treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a perfect Banana Tea Loaf lies in the baking technique. Ensuring the oven is preheated to the right temperature and placing the loaf pan in the center of the oven will promote even baking. Using waxed paper and cooking spray prevents the loaf from sticking to the pan, making it easier to remove after baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version of Banana Tea Loaf, you can substitute the Crisco with applesauce or a similar fruit puree to reduce the fat content. Whole wheat flour can replace all-purpose flour for added fiber. If you're out of pineapple juice concentrate, apple juice concentrate or orange juice concentrate can be used as alternatives.

Make Ahead Tips

Banana Tea Loaf can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its moisture and freshness. Thaw frozen loaves overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Presentation Ideas

For an attractive presentation, slice the Banana Tea Loaf and arrange the slices on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh banana slices, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey. Edible flowers or citrus zest can also add a colorful and flavorful touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Banana Tea Loaf pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a classic pairing, serve it with English breakfast tea or a strong coffee. For a more indulgent experience, a dessert wine or a sweet liqueur like Amaretto complements the loaf's flavors wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To store the Banana Tea Loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Banana Tea Loaf contains approximately 200 calories. The calories come from a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a suitable option for a snack or part of a meal.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Banana Tea Loaf contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are flour and bananas, providing energy for your body. The pineapple juice concentrate and orange peel also add a small amount of sugars, contributing to the total carbohydrate content.

Fats

This recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, mainly from the Crisco (vegetable shortening) and eggs. These fats contribute to the loaf's moist texture and rich flavor. Opting for a vegetable-based shortening ensures that the fat content is primarily unsaturated, which is a healthier option.

Proteins

Each serving of Banana Tea Loaf offers around 4 grams of protein. The eggs are the primary source of protein in this recipe, providing structure and moisture to the loaf. While not high in protein, this loaf can be part of a balanced diet when consumed with other protein sources.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana Tea Loaf is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including potassium from the bananas, vitamin C from the orange peel and pineapple juice, and various B vitamins from the flour. These nutrients play essential roles in maintaining good health, from supporting the nervous system to boosting the immune system.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and wheat (flour). It is also important to note that while not listed, nuts or dairy products could be present in some variations of the recipe or added by the baker, so always check for allergens based on individual dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, Banana Tea Loaf offers a balanced mix of nutrients, including carbohydrates for energy, fats for flavor and moisture, and a modest amount of protein. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a snack or dessert. However, those with specific dietary needs should be mindful of the allergens present.

Summary

Banana Tea Loaf is a versatile and delicious treat that combines the sweet flavors of bananas with a hint of citrus. With its easy preparation and nutritious ingredients, it's a wonderful addition to any meal or snack time. Whether enjoyed on its own or customized with your favorite add-ins, this loaf is sure to delight.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, a recipe for Banana Tea Loaf caught my eye. The combination of ripe bananas, warm spices, and a hint of tea sounded absolutely divine.

I had always loved baking, ever since I was a little girl helping my own mother in the kitchen. Over the years, I had collected a wide array of recipes from various places and people - from handwritten notes passed down through generations to magazine clippings and cookbooks filled with dog-eared pages.

But this recipe was different. It spoke to me in a way that others hadn't before. I could almost taste the moist, fragrant loaf just by reading the ingredients and instructions. I knew that I had to try it out for myself.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients - ripe bananas, flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a strong cup of black tea. As I measured and mixed, the kitchen filled with the comforting scents of baking spices and bananas. I could feel the warmth of the oven as it preheated, ready to transform the simple ingredients into something magical.

As the loaf baked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. Would it turn out just as I imagined? Would it be as delicious as it sounded? I eagerly waited for the timer to ding, signaling that the Banana Tea Loaf was ready to be enjoyed.

When I pulled the loaf out of the oven, it was a beautiful golden brown, with a slight crack down the center and a heavenly aroma wafting through the air. I couldn't resist cutting a slice while it was still warm, spreading a bit of butter on top and savoring that first bite.

The taste was everything I had hoped for and more. The bananas added a natural sweetness and moistness to the loaf, while the spices and tea infused it with a depth of flavor that was truly remarkable. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my baking repertoire, something to be shared with family and friends for years to come.

As I enjoyed another slice of Banana Tea Loaf with a steaming cup of tea, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the rich tapestry of recipes that had been passed down to me. Each one told a story, a journey of discovery and love that had been woven into the very fabric of my family history.

And now, as I add this recipe to my collection, I can't help but wonder who else will be inspired by its delicious simplicity. Perhaps one day, my own grandchildren will find it in an old cookbook and feel the same sense of excitement and wonder that I did. And in that moment, the tradition of sharing recipes and stories will continue to thrive, connecting generations past, present, and future in a delicious tapestry of love.

Categories

| Almond Extract Recipes | Banana Recipes | Canola Oil Recipes | Dessert Loaf Recipes | Egg Substitute Recipes | Low-calorie Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes | Orange Peel Recipes | Unbleached Flour Recipes |

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