Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut four 12-inch pieces of aluminum foil and place them on a flat surface.
3. Peel the bananas and cut a slit lengthwise down the center of each banana, leaving about 1/2 inch at each end.
4. Place each banana on a piece of aluminum foil.
5. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6. Add the diced pineapple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the saucepan and stir to combine.
7. Cook the pineapple mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple is caramelized and the sauce has thickened.
8. Spoon the pineapple mixture into the slit of each banana.
9. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top of each banana.
10. Fold the aluminum foil around each banana to create a boat-like shape, leaving the top open.
11. Place the banana boats on the grill or grill pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the bananas are soft and the topping is hot and bubbly.
12. Remove the banana boats from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes.
13. Serve the banana boats with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan at medium-high heat
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 238
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 27g
Sodium: 5mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple.
- You can use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
Variations:
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top of the banana boats.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pineapple mixture for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
- If you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can bake the banana boats in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
- You can make the pineapple mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Storage instructions:
Leftover banana boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the banana boats, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the banana boats on a platter with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts or shredded coconut over the top of the banana boats.
Pairings:
Serve the banana boats with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious dessert.
Suggested side dishes:
These banana boats are a dessert on their own, but you could serve them with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the banana boats are not caramelizing on the grill, you can place them under the broiler for a minute or two to brown the topping.
- If the banana boats are too soft, you may have cooked them for too long. Check them after 5 minutes on the grill to make sure they don't overcook.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all produce before starting to cook. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Food history:
Banana boats are a popular dessert in the Caribbean and Latin America. They are often filled with sweet toppings like caramelized fruit, chocolate, or nuts.
Flavor profiles:
The sweet and caramelized pineapple pairs perfectly with the soft and creamy banana. The walnuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the banana boats as a dessert after a meal, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A
Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Caramelized, Fruity, Creamy