Banana cue is a delicious Filipino street food that features fried saba bananas coated in caramelized brown sugar. It’s not just a snack; it makes for a delightful treat when paired with other foods. While many enjoy banana cue as a stand-alone delight, it can be complemented perfectly with some whip-ups.
Try pairing it with warm coconut rice; the sweetness of the bananas melds beautifully with the creamy texture of the rice. Or, how about a scoop of vanilla ice cream? The cold creaminess of the ice cream balances the gooey, warm banana cue, creating a flavor explosion! And if you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of honey or chocolate syrup on top can take your experience to the next level.
Now, let’s dive deep into the world of banana cue. Join me on this journey full of flavors, aromas, and a touch of nostalgia.
I still recall my childhood afternoons, traipsing through the bustling streets of my hometown. The irresistible scent of frying bananas wafted through the air, guiding me to the local vendor selling banana cue. Watching her expertly slide the saba into bubbling oil, then coat the banana clusters in caramel, was a mesmerizing sight.
The golden-brown sticks of sweetness brought cheer and comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my take on this timeless treat, infusing it with personal narratives and seasoned knowledge. Whether you’ve enjoyed banana cue before or it’s your first encounter, let’s explore this tasty journey together.
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Why This Recipe Works?
1. Simple Ingredients: The beauty of banana cue lies in its simplicity. Just a few ingredients create a masterpiece. Saba bananas, brown sugar, and oil come together beautifully in this recipe. You won’t need a grocery list a mile long to make this treat.
2. Quick Cooking Time: This treat cooks up in no time. In under 30 minutes, you can be savoring this delightful snack. It makes a perfect choice for an impromptu get-together or a cozy nighttime craving.
3. Versatile Flavor: The caramelized sweetness is balanced perfectly by a sprinkling of sea salt. Add ground cinnamon, and you introduce a warm, inviting flavor that can remind you of cozy kitchens and fond memories. The flavor is accessible and yet layered.
4. Childhood Nostalgia: Making banana cue evokes the feeling of childhood. The steps remind many of the simple pleasures in life, encouraging not just cooking, but crafting memories as well. This recipe not only fills the belly but also fills the heart.
How Does It Taste Like?
Banana cue is truly a flavor experience. It has a crispy exterior, thanks to frying, while the inside remains warm and soft, offering that tender banana goodness. The caramelized brown sugar adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that coats each piece, creating that sticky, satisfying texture we all adore. The touch of sea salt balances the sweetness perfectly, ensuring that each bite doesn’t just taste sweet but has complexity. If you add cinnamon, there’s an aromatic warmth that enhances the experience, making each morsel not just a snack but a memory.
What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Banana Cue Variations?
While banana cue is celebrated in many regions, this recipe stays true to tradition while offering a few personal touches.
I advocate for using quality saba bananas. They are sweeter and more flavorful than typical bananas, so you truly want to make the most of your ingredients.
The addition of cinnamon amplifies the flavor profile. Many versions stick strictly to sugar, but the cinnamon adds a unique twist.
Using the right balance of sugar and salt is crucial. Many don’t emphasize this balance, but it is essential for enhancing your dish.
Finally, I’ve ensured simplicity. This recipe is straightforward and allows even novice cooks to make an impressive dish at home.
The Ingredients
Let’s break down the needed ingredients for this delightful treat:
1 cup packed brown sugar: For that irresistible caramel flavor.
1 large cluster of saba bananas (15–20): The star of the show, these bananas are starchier and sweeter than your average banana.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt: This balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
Neutral oil for shallow frying: Helps achieve that crispy exterior.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Optional, for adding warmth and depth to your treat.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
Begin by peeling the saba bananas. If you prefer a more delicate bite, you can slice them lengthwise, but I usually keep them whole for that classic feel.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, pour enough neutral oil to cover the bottom about an inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot, but not smoking. You can test this by dropping a small piece of banana sugar into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
Step 3: Caramelize the Sugar
While the oil is heating, place the brown sugar in a large, shallow dish. Add the sea salt and cinnamon (if using) and mix well.
Step 4: Fry the Bananas
Carefully drop the peeled bananas into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes on each side or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Be sure to turn them gently to prevent splashing.
Step 5: Coat the Bananas in Sugar
Once the bananas are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and immediately coat them in the brown sugar mixture. Toss them lightly to ensure they are evenly coated.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the caramelized banana cue cool on a wire rack for a couple of minutes. Then enjoy them warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream, or just on their own for a cozy snack.
Notes
Frying Temperature: Always ensure the oil is adequately heated before adding your bananas to prevent sogginess.
Serving Size: Feel free to make a larger batch! Banana cue is great for sharing. You’ll be the hit of the gathering!
Alternative Sweeteners: For a fun twist, try using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. It gives a different flavor, perfect for coconut lovers.
Storage: Banana cue is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Presentation: Feel free to serve your banana cue on a platter with a sprinkle of sea salt on top. It makes for an irresistible appearance!
Nutrition Information
One serving of banana cue contains approximately:
Calories: 120
Total Fat: 2g
Sodium: 75mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugars: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Note: Values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands.
How Do You Store This Banana Cue?
Storage is straightforward. If you have leftovers, allow the banana cue to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container at room temperature. Try to consume them within a day to enjoy the texture. If you find yourself with a bunch of banana cue (unlikely but possible!), you can freeze them. Just remember, freezing may alter the texture slightly, but they’re still delicious.
Sides for Banana Cue
When it comes to sides, a little creativity goes a long way! Here are some great options:
Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice pairs superbly with banana cue. The richness of the coconut complements the sweetness and makes for a great dish.
Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa can offer a zesty counterpart to the warm sweetness of the bananas. The tang brings a delightful balance.
Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla or coconut ice cream is an excellent match. The cold, rich flavor enhances the crispy, sweet treats perfectly.
What Alternatives Can You Use for Ingredients?
Sometimes, a last-minute grocery run isn’t feasible. Here are alternatives:
Alternative Bananas: If you can’t find saba bananas, plantains or even regular ripe bananas can work. Adjust frying times accordingly.
Sweetener Variants: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique flavor twist. Just watch your frying method to avoid burning.
Oil Alternatives: Coconut oil lends a richer flavor, a hint of tropical taste that enriches the bananas.
Without Cinnamon: If you have allergies or simply don’t like the flavor, omit the cinnamon. The dish will still shine with just brown sugar.
Banana Cue
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: For that irresistible caramel flavor.
- 1 large cluster of saba bananas 15–20: The star of the show, these bananas are starchier and sweeter than your average banana.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: This balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Neutral oil for shallow frying: Helps achieve that crispy exterior.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Optional for adding warmth and depth to your treat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
- Begin by peeling the saba bananas. If you prefer a more delicate bite, you can slice them lengthwise, but I usually keep them whole for that classic feel.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet, pour enough neutral oil to cover the bottom about an inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot, but not smoking. You can test this by dropping a small piece of banana sugar into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
Step 3: Caramelize the Sugar
- While the oil is heating, place the brown sugar in a large, shallow dish. Add the sea salt and cinnamon (if using) and mix well.
Step 4: Fry the Bananas
- Carefully drop the peeled bananas into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes on each side or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Be sure to turn them gently to prevent splashing.
Step 5: Coat the Bananas in Sugar
- Once the bananas are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and immediately coat them in the brown sugar mixture. Toss them lightly to ensure they are evenly coated.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the caramelized banana cue cool on a wire rack for a couple of minutes. Then enjoy them warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream, or just on their own for a cozy snack.
Notes
- Frying Temperature: Always ensure the oil is adequately heated before adding your bananas to prevent sogginess.
- Serving Size: Feel free to make a larger batch! Banana cue is great for sharing. You’ll be the hit of the gathering!
- Alternative Sweeteners: For a fun twist, try using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. It gives a different flavor, perfect for coconut lovers.
- Storage: Banana cue is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- Presentation: Feel free to serve your banana cue on a platter with a sprinkle of sea salt on top. It makes for an irresistible appearance!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I bake banana cue instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the bananas in sugar and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until golden.
Q2: How do I know when my bananas are ripe enough?
Choose bananas that are firm but give slightly when pressed. Overripe bananas may turn mushy during frying, while underripe bananas may not develop the desired sweetness.
Q3: What’s the best way to serve banana cue?
Serving them warm is best to enjoy the sticky, caramelized goodness. You can place them on a stick for easy eating, just like you would with other street foods.
Q4: Can I use this recipe for other fruits?
Certainly! While banana cue is iconic, consider using sliced sweet potatoes or apples. Adjust cooking times based on the fruit you choose.
Conclusion
Banana cue is a lovely fusion of comfort food and street food that every home cook should try at least once. The straightforward process and delightful flavor mean you can impress friends and family with minimal effort. So let’s break out those saba bananas and get frying!
Whether you’re sharing this sweet treat with loved ones or enjoying it solo, it brings joy to every bite. I urge you to give this recipe a try. It might just become a cherished addition to your collection. Enjoy the experience as much as the delicious result!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more