Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream

Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream Recipe - Authentic Laos Dessert

Region / culture: Laos | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream is a traditional dessert that is popular in Laos and other Southeast Asian countries. This sweet and creamy dish is made with ripe bananas cooked in coconut milk, sugar, and a touch of salt. It is a simple yet delicious dessert that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Laos and is a popular dessert enjoyed by many. Bananas are a common fruit in Southeast Asia, and coconut milk is a staple ingredient in many dishes in the region. The combination of these two ingredients creates a rich and creamy dessert that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

6 bananas
12 fl oz/375 ml/2 cups coconut milk
2 tbsp/30 ml granulated sugar
0.5 tsp/2.5 ml salt

How to prepare

Peel the bananas and chop them into segments measuring 2 inches (5 cm).
In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk with the sugar and salt, and cook it gently until the sugar is dissolved. Add the banana pieces and cook them gently for 5 minutes.
Divide the mixture into 6-8 small bowls and serve it warm.

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm and spicy flavor.
Top the dessert with chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Use different fruits, such as mango or pineapple, in place of bananas for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe bananas for this recipe, as they will be sweeter and more flavorful.

- Stir the coconut milk mixture constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- You can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- Serve the dessert warm for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream warm as a dessert after a traditional Laotian meal. You can also top it with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires simmering the bananas in coconut milk until they are tender and the flavors have melded together. Be sure to stir the mixture constantly to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have coconut milk, you can use regular milk or a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk. You can also use honey or maple syrup in place of sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the coconut milk mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook the bananas. Simply reheat the mixture before adding the bananas.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream in small bowls or cups for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dessert pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the dessert in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dessert contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Coconut milk is rich in iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains coconut milk, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

This dessert is a good source of carbohydrates and fats, and it also provides some vitamins and minerals. However, it is high in calories and may not be suitable for those on a low-calorie diet.

Summary

Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream is a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This traditional dish is easy to make and can be customized with different flavors and toppings. Serve it warm for the best flavor and enjoy a taste of Southeast Asia in your own home.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had recently traveled to Laos. She had brought back with her a cookbook filled with traditional Laotian recipes, and I was immediately drawn to a recipe for Bananas in Coconut Cream.

As I flipped through the pages, my friend told me about her adventures in Laos and how she had learned to make this dish from a local family. She described how the sweet bananas were cooked in a rich coconut cream, creating a decadent and comforting dessert. I was intrigued and knew I had to try making it myself.

Back at home, I gathered all the ingredients needed for the recipe. The ripe bananas, coconut milk, sugar, and pandan leaves were all laid out on the counter, ready to be transformed into a delicious dessert. I followed the instructions carefully, simmering the coconut cream with the pandan leaves until it was fragrant and thick.

I peeled and sliced the bananas, gently adding them to the simmering coconut cream. The sweet aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me to the lush jungles of Laos. As the bananas cooked, they absorbed the creamy coconut sauce, becoming soft and luscious.

When the dish was finally ready, I couldn't wait to try it. I served myself a bowl of the Bananas in Coconut Cream and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the sweet bananas, the rich coconut cream, and the subtle hint of pandan all combined to create a truly unforgettable dessert.

I savored each spoonful, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn and experience a new culinary tradition. The recipe for Laotian Bananas in Coconut Cream had become a new favorite in my repertoire, and I knew I would be making it again and again for years to come.

Since that day, I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the delicious flavors of Laos to those around me. Each time I make the dish, I am reminded of my friend's travels and the joy of discovering new recipes from faraway places.

As I sit here now, enjoying a bowl of Bananas in Coconut Cream, I am grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. The recipe may have come from a distant land, but it has found a home in my heart, keeping alive the spirit of adventure and discovery in my kitchen. And for that, I am truly thankful.