If you ask me to name my favorite fruit, the immediate answer you would get would be the "banana". A specific explanation for this I don't think I have, however, this has been the case for quite a few years now. I love bananas both the green ones as well as the small yellow bananas.
The first fruit I guess that comes to mind for a large percentage of people would be the banana,don't know whether it is because of its easy availability or the great taste. This is one fruit that is available throughout the year, and that sure does make me really glad.
The bananas were initially restricted to the tropical areas of South-east Asia and Australia. However, with its growing popularity and tremendous benefits the fruit has gained access throughout the tropical region. The banana has spread its wings far and wide and this is evident from the fact that it is grown in over 107 countries across the globe.
Whether it is green, yellow or red banana, they all taste great. When talking of bananas one cannot just go by taste alone, as this fruit has tremendous potential and is a rich source of several vitamins. It is rich in vitamin B6, vitamin C and also potassium. High in iron and fiber, a banana a day can do you a lot good. It helps in regularizing the bowel movement, provides the body with the required amounts of potassium.
If at any point of time during the day, I experience a slight drop in my sugar levels or hypoglycemia as it is termed (does happen to me with exhaustion and also stressful physical activity) then I find a banana the best bet to getting my sugar levels back to normal. The best thing to get you back on track real quick.
A banana can be eaten as it is or the versatility of this fruit gives it the potential to be used very creatively in several dishes. The banana in the steamed form is a really tasty and healthy dish. In the state of Kerala which is known for bananas and the uses to which it is put, the banana in the steamed form is eaten as a part of breakfast. Bake, steam or fry the banana provides you a delicious option whichever way you decide to cook it.
The fruit can be beautifully combined to make several tasty treats like a smoothie, the banana walnut loaf, banana flambee and even banana fritters that make for a great dessert when served with ice cream. Banana fritters is an easy to make dish that is popular in Indian as well as Thai cuisine. They are relished in countries like Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Raw bananas are also used to make delicious chips that are wonderful snacks for munching at any time of the day. It is very popular in the South Indian state of Kerala and make for a large chunk of exports.
A banana everyday in any form can be great both for your taste buds as well as your health. Try out various banana based dishes, it is sure to make you fall in love with the fruit - if you already haven't.
