Beyen

Introduction

History

The recipe for Beyen has evolved over generations, with its origins likely rooted in the need to use up overripe bananas rather than letting them go to waste. This practical approach to cooking has led to the creation of a dish that is beloved in many households. Over time, the addition of ingredients like cinnamon and almond extract has refined the recipe, giving it a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from other banana-based desserts.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use bananas that are very ripe, as they are sweeter and mash more easily. Adding a small amount of flour helps to bind the ingredients together, but be careful not to add too much, or the Beyen will be too dense. Frying at the right temperature is crucial; the oil should be hot enough so that the batter sizzles upon contact, but not so hot that the outside burns before the inside is cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Beyen can be served warm or at room temperature, dusted with a little extra sugar or drizzled with honey. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making Beyen is frying. Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil's temperature too much.

Ingredient Substitutions

If almond extract is not available, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute. For a healthier version, coconut sugar or maple syrup can replace the white sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

The batter for Beyen can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. This allows the flavors to meld together and can save time when preparing the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Beyen on a platter garnished with slices of fresh banana and a dusting of cinnamon for an appealing presentation. A mint leaf can add a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Beyen pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or tea. The bitterness of the coffee or the tannins in the tea complement the sweetness of the dessert perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Beyen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a toaster oven or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Beyen can range from 200 to 300 calories, depending on the size of the servings and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Beyen primarily provides carbohydrates, with the ripe bananas contributing the majority of the carbs. The added sugar and flour also increase the carbohydrate content. On average, a serving of Beyen may contain approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fat content in Beyen comes primarily from the oil used for frying. Depending on the type of oil used and how well the Beyen is drained after frying, the fat content can vary. On average, a serving may contain about 10-15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Beyen is not a significant source of protein, with only minimal amounts coming from the bananas and flour. Each serving may contain about 1-2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional value of Beyen, making it not only delicious but also a healthier dessert option.

Alergens

The primary allergen in Beyen is wheat, due to the flour used in the batter. Individuals with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease should avoid this dish or seek a gluten-free flour alternative.

Summary

Overall, Beyen is a dessert that offers a moderate amount of calories, carbohydrates, and fats, with minimal protein. It is rich in certain vitamins and minerals thanks to the bananas, making it a nutritious option for a sweet treat.

Summary

Beyen is a delightful dessert that showcases the versatility and sweetness of ripe bananas. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with coffee, Beyen is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a small piece of paper tucked away in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. The recipe was for Beyen, a traditional dish that she had learned to make from a dear friend who had immigrated from a far-off land.

As I read through the list of ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the savory and sweet flavors mingling together in perfect harmony. I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish, not only for myself but also to carry on the tradition that my grandmother had passed down to me.

I set out to find the necessary ingredients, searching high and low for the special spices and seasonings that would bring the Beyen to life. With each purchase, I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation, knowing that I was one step closer to mastering this beloved recipe.

When I finally had everything I needed, I set to work in the kitchen, following the instructions carefully and adding my own personal touch to the dish. The aroma that filled the air as the Beyen cooked was intoxicating, making my mouth water in anticipation of the first bite.

As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I couldn't help but think back to the friend who had originally shared this recipe with my grandmother. I imagined her standing in her own kitchen, surrounded by the sights and sounds of her homeland, passing down the secrets of Beyen to my grandmother with love and care.

With each bite of the dish, I felt a sense of connection to those who had come before me, who had shared their knowledge and traditions so freely. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own repertoire, a dish that I would pass down to future generations with the same love and reverence that had been shown to me.

And as I finished the last bite of Beyen, savoring the flavors that danced on my tongue, I knew that I had truly captured the essence of this cherished recipe. It was more than just a dish to me; it was a link to the past, a reminder of the love and camaraderie that had been shared over countless meals and conversations.

From that day forward, Beyen became a regular feature on my table, a dish that brought joy and comfort to all who tasted it. And as I shared the recipe with friends and family, I knew that I was honoring the legacy of my grandmother and the dear friend who had first introduced her to this culinary delight.

So whenever I make Beyen now, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of camaraderie, knowing that this simple dish has the power to bring people together and create lasting memories that will be cherished for generations to come. And for that, I am truly grateful.

Categories

| Banana Recipes | Haitian Appetizers | Haitian Desserts | Haitian Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients