Bananas with Green Split Peas

Bananas with Green Split Peas Recipe from Rwanda | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Rwanda | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Bananas with Green Split Peas is a unique and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the earthy flavor of green split peas. This recipe is a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of traditional cooking, bringing together simple ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Ideal for those looking to explore diverse culinary traditions, this dish offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that cater to both sweet and savory palates.

History

The origins of Bananas with Green Split Peas can be traced back to various parts of the world where bananas and pulses are staple foods. This dish is a beautiful example of cross-cultural culinary fusion, likely originating from regions in Africa or the Caribbean where both bananas and peas are abundant. Over time, it has been adapted and embraced by different cultures, each adding their unique twist to the recipe.

Ingredients

2 cups dried green split peas, pre-soaked
4 ripe bananas
0.5 tsp salt
2 tbsp palm oil, or other cooking oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced

How to prepare

Cook the peas in enough water to cover until tender, about 1.5 hours.
Peel bananas and place them whole on top of the peas without mixing.
Continue to cook for 10 minutes until bananas are soft, adding a bit of water if necessary to prevent peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Meanwhile, heat the palm oil in a skillet or pot large enough to hold the peas and bananas. Brown the onions. Then, using a slotted spoon, remove bananas and peas from the first pot and add them to the onions.
Sprinkle in the salt and continue to cook over medium heat, stirring gently but constantly, until oil has been absorbed. Serve hot.

Variations

For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper or a teaspoon of curry powder when browning the onions. You can also substitute the green split peas with yellow split peas or lentils for a different flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, soak the green split peas overnight to reduce cooking time and achieve a tender texture. When cooking the bananas, be careful not to overmix, as they can easily become mushy. Using ripe but firm bananas will help them maintain their shape and texture during cooking. Lastly, browning the onions before adding the peas and bananas will add a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot as a main course, accompanied by a side of steamed rice or flatbread for a complete meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own for a lighter option.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include soaking the peas, slow-cooking to achieve tender textures, and careful sautéing to enhance flavors. These methods help to preserve the nutritional content while maximizing taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If bananas are not available, plantains can be used as a substitute, offering a similar texture and sweetness. For a lower-fat option, reduce the amount of oil or use a cooking spray.

Make Ahead Tips

The green split peas can be soaked and cooked ahead of time, then stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. This can save time and make meal preparation quicker and more convenient.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish in a shallow bowl, garnishing with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. A lemon wedge on the side can add a refreshing zest when squeezed over the dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Bananas with Green Split Peas with a crisp, dry white wine or a light-bodied beer to complement the dish's flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime works well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pot over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Bananas with Green Split Peas contains approximately 350 calories, making it a nutritious and filling option for a main meal.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, with green split peas providing complex carbohydrates that are essential for energy. Bananas add natural sugars and additional carbs, making this dish an energy-boosting meal. A serving of Bananas with Green Split Peas contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the cooking oil used to brown the onions. Using a healthy oil such as olive or coconut oil can provide beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. The total fat content per serving is around 7 grams, depending on the type and amount of oil used.

Proteins

Green split peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this dish a great option for vegetarians and vegans. A single serving of Bananas with Green Split Peas contains about 16 grams of protein, contributing to muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A from the bananas, as well as iron, magnesium, and potassium from the green split peas. These nutrients support overall health, aiding in everything from vision to muscle function and blood health.

Alergens

This recipe is naturally free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it suitable for individuals with food sensitivities or allergies.

Summary

Overall, Bananas with Green Split Peas is a balanced and nutritious dish, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a wholesome choice for those seeking a hearty and healthful meal.

Summary

Bananas with Green Split Peas is a nourishing and flavorful dish that showcases the simplicity and richness of combining fruits and legumes. With its blend of sweet and savory elements, it offers a unique culinary experience that is both satisfying and healthful. Whether you're exploring new recipes or seeking a comforting meal, this dish is sure to delight.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. Bananas with green split peas - a combination I had never heard of before, but one that intrigued me nonetheless. It was during a trip to India many years ago that I first came across this unique dish, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I was wandering through the bustling streets of Mumbai, taking in the sights and sounds of the vibrant city. The air was filled with exotic scents of spices and cooking, and my stomach grumbled in anticipation of a delicious meal. As I passed by a small street vendor, I caught a glimpse of a woman preparing a dish that caught my eye - bananas with green split peas.

Intrigued, I approached the vendor and asked her about the dish. She smiled warmly and told me that it was a traditional Indian recipe, passed down through generations in her family. Bananas were a common ingredient in Indian cuisine, used in both savory and sweet dishes. The green split peas added a unique texture and flavor to the dish, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness.

I watched intently as the woman cooked, taking note of each step and ingredient she used. She explained that the bananas were first sautéed in ghee until they were golden brown and caramelized, adding a rich sweetness to the dish. The green split peas were boiled until tender, then mixed with spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander for a fragrant and flavorful topping.

After tasting a small sample of the dish, I was hooked. The combination of sweet bananas and savory green split peas was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself, so I asked the woman if she would be willing to share her recipe with me.

She agreed, and we spent the rest of the afternoon cooking together in her makeshift kitchen. She showed me how to select the ripest bananas and the freshest green split peas, emphasizing the importance of using quality ingredients in Indian cooking. She taught me the proper techniques for sautéing the bananas and boiling the split peas, ensuring that each component was cooked to perfection.

As we cooked, the woman shared stories of her family and the traditions behind the dish. She spoke of her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe to her, and the memories they shared of cooking together in their family kitchen. Her passion for food and cooking was evident in every word she spoke, and I felt privileged to be learning from her.

By the time we finished cooking, the sun had begun to set over the bustling cityscape of Mumbai. We sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, savoring each bite of the bananas with green split peas. The dish was even more delicious than I remembered, a perfect blend of flavors and textures that left me craving more.

As I bid farewell to the woman, she handed me a handwritten recipe card for bananas with green split peas, a token of our time spent together in her kitchen. I promised to cherish it and pass it down to future generations, ensuring that this unique dish would continue to be enjoyed for years to come.

Since that day in Mumbai, I have made bananas with green split peas countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, impressing them with the exotic flavors and unique combination of ingredients. And every time I cook this dish, I am reminded of the woman in Mumbai who taught me the art of Indian cooking and the power of sharing recipes and traditions with others.

So, the next time you're looking to try something new and exciting in the kitchen, why not give bananas with green split peas a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. Just remember to use the ripest bananas and the freshest green split peas, and cook with love and passion, as I did that day in Mumbai. Happy cooking!