Batida de Banana

Batida de Banana Recipe - A Delicious Brazilian Drink with Cachaça and Pineapple Juice

Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Batida de Banana is a refreshing and tropical cocktail that originates from Brazil. It combines the sweetness of bananas with the unique flavor of cachaça, a popular Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy fruity cocktails and are looking for something exotic and flavorful. The addition of pineapple juice and cream gives it a smooth, rich texture that makes it an irresistible treat on a hot day.

History

The Batida is a traditional Brazilian cocktail family that includes a variety of fruits mixed with cachaça. The word "batida" means "shaken" or "milkshake" in Portuguese, reflecting the drink's creamy texture. Batida de Banana, specifically, gained popularity as bananas are widely available in Brazil and pair beautifully with the national spirit. This cocktail reflects Brazil's vibrant culture and its people's love for fresh, tropical flavors.

Ingredients

0.75 oz (21 g) of cachaça
1.5 – 2 oz (57 g) of pineapple juice
0.25 – 0.75 oz (21 g) of cream
1 dash of banana syrup
0.5 banana

How to prepare

Combine the ingredients in a blender.
Pour the mixture into a large highball glass over crushed ice, and serve.

Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute cachaça with coconut water or more pineapple juice. You can also experiment with other fruits like mango or papaya in place of banana for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best Batida de Banana, use ripe bananas for a natural sweetness and a smooth texture. If you prefer a thicker consistency, adjust the amount of cream to your liking. For an extra touch of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg before blending. Always use crushed ice to achieve the perfect chilled and refreshing cocktail.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Batida de Banana in a large highball glass over crushed ice. Garnish with a slice of banana or a pineapple wedge to enhance its tropical appeal. This cocktail is best enjoyed on a warm day or as a dessert drink after a meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing Batida de Banana is blending. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Adjust the blending time based on the desired texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cachaça is not available, white rum or vodka can be used as substitutes. Coconut cream can replace dairy cream for a vegan option, and agave syrup or honey can be used instead of regular syrup for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

While Batida de Banana is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the fruit and juice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Add the cachaça and ice just before serving to ensure the cocktail is chilled and refreshing.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, rim the glass with sugar or coconut flakes. Serve with a colorful straw and a cocktail umbrella to emphasize the tropical theme of the drink.

Pairing Recommendations

Batida de Banana pairs well with light appetizers, seafood dishes, or tropical-themed desserts like coconut flan or mango sorbet. Its sweet and creamy profile complements spicy and savory flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This cocktail is not suitable for storage or reheating due to its fresh ingredients and ice. It should be prepared and consumed immediately to enjoy its best quality and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Batida de Banana contains approximately 150-200 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients and their quantities used.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Batida de Banana contains approximately 20-25 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the natural sugars in the banana and pineapple juice, with a small amount contributed by the cream and syrup.

Fats

This cocktail contains a moderate amount of fat, primarily from the cream. A serving has about 2-5 grams of fat, depending on the amount of cream used. Opting for light or coconut cream can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Batida de Banana is low in protein, with less than 1 gram per serving. The minimal protein content comes from the cream.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas and pineapple juice make this cocktail a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C, potassium, and small amounts of magnesium and vitamin A. These nutrients contribute to the overall health benefits of the drink.

Alergens

The primary allergen in Batida de Banana is dairy, due to the cream. Individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy should consider dairy-free cream alternatives.

Summary

Overall, Batida de Banana is a moderately caloric cocktail with a balance of carbohydrates and fats, low protein, and a good source of certain vitamins and minerals. It's a delightful treat that, when consumed in moderation, can fit into a balanced diet.

Summary

Batida de Banana is a delightful Brazilian cocktail that offers a taste of the tropics with its combination of bananas, pineapple juice, cream, and cachaça. It's a versatile drink that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing summer drink or a dessert cocktail, Batida de Banana is sure to bring a touch of Brazilian festivity to any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Batida de Banana. It was a warm summer day, much like today, and I was wandering through the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro. The air was thick with the scent of exotic fruits and spices, and the sound of samba music filled my ears.

As I meandered through the colorful market stalls, my eyes were drawn to a small stand tucked away in a corner. There, a kindly elderly woman was selling a variety of tropical fruits, including an abundance of ripe, golden bananas. Intrigued, I approached the stand and struck up a conversation with the woman.

She introduced herself as Dona Maria, a local resident who had been selling fruits at the market for decades. She spoke passionately about her love for cooking and shared stories of her favorite recipes and culinary adventures. As we chatted, she offered me a taste of her famous Batida de Banana, a traditional Brazilian cocktail made with bananas, cachaca, and sweetened condensed milk.

With one sip, I was hooked. The creamy texture, the sweet flavor of ripe bananas, and the kick of the cachaca all blended together perfectly. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Dona Maria saw the spark of curiosity in my eyes and offered to teach me her secret recipe. She invited me to her home the following day, where she took me under her wing and guided me through the process of making Batida de Banana.

We started by selecting the ripest bananas from her garden, ensuring they were perfectly sweet and fragrant. Dona Maria showed me how to peel and slice the bananas, then blend them with cachaca, sweetened condensed milk, and a splash of lime juice. She emphasized the importance of using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to blend everything together until smooth and creamy.

As we worked, Dona Maria shared stories of her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe for Batida de Banana to her many years ago. She spoke of the joy and memories that came with each sip of the cocktail, and how it had become a beloved tradition in her family.

After hours of blending and tasting, we finally achieved the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Dona Maria poured the Batida de Banana into small glasses, garnishing each one with a slice of fresh banana and a sprinkle of cinnamon. With a smile, she handed me a glass and encouraged me to take a sip.

As I tasted the cocktail, I was transported back to that warm summer day in Rio de Janeiro. The sweet, creamy flavor of bananas danced on my tongue, followed by the subtle heat of the cachaca and the tang of lime. It was a taste of Brazil in a glass, a reminder of the vibrant culture and flavors that had captured my heart.

Since that day, I have shared the recipe for Batida de Banana with friends and family, passing down the tradition that Dona Maria so graciously shared with me. Each time I make the cocktail, I am reminded of the kindness and generosity of the people I met on my journey, and the joy that comes from sharing a delicious recipe with those I love.

And so, as I sit here enjoying a glass of Batida de Banana, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and memories that have shaped my culinary adventures. From the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro to the quiet moments spent in my own kitchen, each recipe tells a story and connects me to the world around me. And for that, I am truly grateful. Cheers to Dona Maria and the magic of Batida de Banana!