Are you craving a taste of the Philippines? Then look no further! Minatamis na Saging, or caramelized bananas, is a simple yet incredibly delicious Filipino dessert that's perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe is a fantastic introduction to homemade cooking, requiring minimal ingredients and effort while delivering maximum flavour. It's the perfect quick dinner dessert or a delightful treat any time of day. Get ready to experience the delightful sweetness of caramelized bananas, a true taste of home-cooked goodness!
Ingredients:
- 4-6 ripe but firm plantains (saba bananas are ideal, but other ripe bananas can work)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup water (extra for rinsing)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, enhances sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, adds depth of flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
- Wash the plantains thoroughly and peel them. Cut them into 2-inch thick slices. If using very ripe bananas, you may want to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
- Rinse the sliced plantains with the extra 1/4 cup of water, this helps remove excess starch. Drain well.
Step 2: Caramelize the Bananas
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and 1/2 cup of water. Do not stir. Let the sugar dissolve and turn into a light amber caramel. This is a crucial step and requires patience! If the sugar begins to crystallize, add a tiny bit of water to dissolve it.
- Once the caramel is a light amber color, carefully add the plantain slices. Gently stir to coat the bananas evenly in the caramel.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bananas are tender and the caramel is thick and glossy. Stir gently every few minutes to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the bananas mushy.
Step 3: Finishing Touches and Serving
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (if using) and salt (if using). Let the bananas cool slightly.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. This delicious dessert is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Minatamis na Saging:
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe but firm plantains. Overripe bananas will become mushy during cooking.
- Caramel Color: Pay close attention to the caramel color. Light amber is ideal; darker caramel can be bitter.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches ensures even caramel coating and prevents sticking.
- Gentle Stirring: Stirring gently prevents the bananas from breaking and ensures even cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Minatamis: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the caramel for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of calamansi or lemon juice at the end for a tangy flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle toasted peanuts or sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the number of bananas used and the serving size. However, Minatamis na Saging provides a good source of natural sugars, potassium and fiber. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator based on the exact quantities of ingredients used.
This easy recipe for Minatamis na Saging is a wonderful addition to your collection of healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Enjoy this sweet taste of the Philippines!