Brazilian Dwarf Bananas
Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
The Brazilian Dwarf banana is, as its name implies, a small scale tree that produces short plump fruits. The trees usually begin producing when they are between 2 and 3 meters tall and yield bananas about half the size of the Cavendish, the predominant grocery store variety. A golden yellow when fully ripe, their texture is slightly firm like that of a ripe plantain, yet still offers a silky mouthfeel. They are superiorly sweet but balanced with a hint of tart green flavors, and often regarded as one of the best tasting banana varieties on the market.
Seasons/Availability
Brazilian Dwarf bananas are available year-round.
Current Facts
The Brazilian Dwarf banana is a variety within the Musa genus that is also known as Santa Catarina Prata or Prata Ana. It is a petite banana known for maximum sweetness packed into a small size. Though the tree’s delicious fruits are it prized offerings, the male flowers are also quite tasty and often eaten as a vegetable. They are starchy and slightly bitter with more pronounced vegetal flavors, entirely different than the mature sweet banana fruit.
Nutritional Value
Like all banana varieties, the Brazilian Dwarf is an excellent source of potassium, vitamins B and C, fiber, and magnesium. They are more calorie dense than most other fruits, making them an extremely efficient and sustainable small meal. Bananas are considered an excellent source of the amino acid tryptophan as well as vitamin B6, which in conjunction helps the body produce serotonin in the brain.
Applications
Brazilian Dwarf bananas may be used in the same manner as any other sweet banana variety. They are perfectly sized for a lunch box or just a small snack for young children. They can be utilized as an ingredient in smoothies, yogurts, cakes, muffins, breads, ice cream, cookies, pudding and more. Favorable pairings include tropical flavors such pineapple, guava, coconut and mango, cinnamon, nutmeg, chocolate, vanilla, stone fruits, berries, lemon and caramel.
Geography/History
The Brazilian Dwarf banana came to the United States in 1979. It is a mutant of its larger cousin, the standard Brazilian banana. It is a hardy variety that thrives in warm humid climates, but can also tolerate cooler arid temperatures as well. The stout plants are more wind resistant than full sized banana varieties, surviving winds in excess of 45 mph. Their short stature is even suitable for container gardening where space is limited, and it is considered a favorite for greenhouses.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Brazilian Dwarf Bananas. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Chic Eats |
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Violet Bakery's Banana Bread |
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