Caribbean Banana Bread

Caribbean Banana Bread Recipe - Vegan and Delicious

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Caribbean Banana Bread is a delicious and moist bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Made with ripe bananas, whole wheat flour, and a hint of cinnamon, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

History

Banana bread has been a popular recipe in Caribbean households for generations. It is a great way to use up ripe bananas and create a tasty treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.

Ingredients

1 cup natural sugar
0.25 cup vegan margarine, softened
egg replacer equal to 2 eggs
1.5 cup mashed ripe bananas (3 – 4)
0.33 cup water
0.67 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup unbleached white flour
1 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
0.25 cup coconut

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a large bowl, combine the sugar and margarine.
Add the bananas and water.
Prepare the binding powder according to the given directions.
Add the binding powder to the wet mixture.
Stir in the remaining ingredients, except the coconut, just until moistened.
Fold in the coconut.
Grease the bottom only of a 9x5x3 loaf pan with oil.
Pour the batter into the pan.
Bake for about 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow the loaf to cool for 5 minutes.
Loosen the sides from the pan and remove the loaf.
Let it cool completely.

Variations

Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Swap out the coconut for raisins or dried fruit.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough bread.

- Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Caribbean Banana Bread is delicious on its own, but can also be enjoyed with a spread of butter or cream cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Regular sugar can be used instead of natural sugar.

- Butter can be used instead of vegan margarine.

- All-purpose flour can be used instead of whole wheat flour.

Make Ahead Tips

Caribbean Banana Bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the banana bread and arrange on a platter with fresh fruit for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Caribbean Banana Bread pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast in a toaster oven.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 30g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 3g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

Contains wheat and coconut. May contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Caribbean Banana Bread is a nutritious and delicious treat that is perfect for any time of day. It is a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Caribbean Banana Bread is a delicious and nutritious treat that is perfect for any time of day. With its moist texture and sweet flavor, it is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to the Caribbean with my dear friend, Maria. We had spent our days exploring the beautiful beaches and vibrant markets, sampling all sorts of exotic fruits and spices. It was during one of these market visits that I stumbled upon a little old lady selling a delicious looking loaf of banana bread.

The aroma wafting from her stall was unmistakable - ripe bananas, warm spices, and a hint of rum. I couldn't resist buying a slice, and with the first bite, I was hooked. The bread was moist, flavorful, and unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I immediately asked the old lady for her recipe, but she just smiled and said it was a family secret passed down through generations.

Disappointed but determined, I spent the rest of the trip asking around for similar recipes. I spoke to local chefs, market vendors, and even some new friends I had made during my stay. Everyone had their own version of Caribbean banana bread, each with a unique twist that made it special. Some added coconut or nuts, others used different spices or sweeteners. I collected all these variations, determined to create my own perfect recipe.

When I returned home, I got to work in my kitchen. I mashed ripe bananas, mixed in flour and spices, and added a generous splash of rum for that authentic Caribbean flavor. I baked the loaf until it was golden brown, and when I took my first bite, I knew I had finally done it. The bread was everything I remembered from that little old lady's stall - moist, flavorful, and utterly delicious.

I shared my creation with Maria, who was delighted to taste a piece of the Caribbean once again. She couldn't believe how close my version was to the bread we had enjoyed on our trip. Together, we savored each bite, reminiscing about our adventures and the wonderful people we had met along the way.

As word spread about my Caribbean banana bread, friends and neighbors began asking for the recipe. I happily shared it with them, knowing that it would bring a taste of the tropics into their homes. Soon, it became a staple at gatherings and potlucks, always a crowd favorite.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste or to accommodate the ingredients I had on hand. I added walnuts for crunch, coconut for sweetness, and even a bit of pineapple for a tangy twist. Each variation was a hit, but the original recipe remained my favorite, a reminder of that magical trip to the Caribbean and the mysterious old lady who had sparked my culinary journey.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope you will continue the tradition of making Caribbean banana bread with love and care. Remember the stories behind the ingredients, the people who inspired this recipe, and the joy it brings to those who taste it. And who knows, maybe one day you'll add your own special touch to make it truly your own.

But for now, enjoy this slice of the Caribbean, made with my love and the memories of a journey that will forever hold a special place in my heart. Bon appétit!