This recipe transforms ripe bananas into delicious and healthy candies. It’s a simple and fun project to do with kids, and a great way to use up overripe bananas before they go bad.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 very ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- Optional:
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- A few drops of vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.
- Soak in Lemon Juice: Place the banana slices in a bowl and pour lemon juice over them. This helps prevent browning.
- Simmer: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the banana slices with the sugar and any desired spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract).
- Cook and Stir: Cook and stir gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bananas soften and the liquid has thickened into a syrupy consistency.
- Cool and Dry: Remove the pan from the heat and let the banana slices cool slightly.
- Dehydrate (Optional): For longer shelf life, you can dehydrate the banana candies in a food dehydrator at a low temperature (around 140°F) for several hours, or until they are completely dry and chewy.
- Store: Store the cooled banana candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer storage.
Tips and Variations:
- Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Try chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of coconut flakes.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like ginger, cardamom, or chili powder for a unique flavor.
- Chocolate Dipping: Dip the cooled banana candies in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Enjoy your homemade banana candies!