Genius Ways To Use Overripe Bananas Instead Of Throwing Them Away
It'a easy to feel guilty when a bright yellow bunch of bananas turns brown on your counter. However, those spots are actually a sign of developing sweetness and a softer texture. Instead of tossing them in the trash, you can transform them into something wonderful.
Here are a few practical and creative ways to give your overripe bananas a second life.
Add them to smoothies
If you're not ready to use your brown bananas immediately, peel them and put them in the freezer. Frozen bananas create a thick and creamy texture in smoothies which means they'll require less dairy.
Just toss a few chunks into your blender with some healthy ingredients like spinach and almond milk for a fast, nutritious meal that prevents food waste.
Turn them into crispy banana chips
Another way to reinvigorate your overripe bananas is to turn them into crispy, oven-baked chips. You can eat them as a quick snack or add them to oatmeal for an extra crunch.
Slice the bananas thinly and coat them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and cook low and slow in the oven. For best results, cook them for around three hours at 200 degrees.
Upgrade your pancakes
You can make a quick breakfast by mixing one mashed banana with two whisked eggs. Cook small spoonfuls of the batter on a greased griddle just like traditional pancakes. These are grain free and high in protein, making them an excellent option for a light meal. They are soft and sweet enough that you might not even need any syrup.
Use them as a plant-based egg substitute
If you don't eat eggs or you simply ran out of them, mashed bananas are a great alternative. One mashed banana can replace one egg in many muffin or pancake recipes.
This swap works best in dense recipes where a little extra fruit flavor is a welcome addition.
Freeze them to use in banana bark
Bananas freeze well, even when they're a little overripe. This means you easily can make banana bark for quick, crunchy snack.
Slice overripe bananas and arrange them in a single layer on parchment-lined tray. Add your favorite toppings like peanut butter, chocolate, or shredded coconut, and stick them in the freezer. Next time you need a sweet treat, just break off a piece and enjoy!
Make one-ingredient ice cream
You can make a delicious frozen treat by blending frozen banana slices until they become smooth. The consistency is remarkably similar to soft serve ice cream.
You don't need an expensive machine or added cream to achieve this result. It's a perfect, guilt-free and refreshing treat for a hot afternoon.
Make banana bread with them
The most classic way to use dark bananas is to bake a loaf of banana bread. The extra moisture from the overripe fruit helps the bread stay soft for days.
Because the fruit is so sweet, you can often reduce the amount of added sugar the recipe calls for. It's a comforting snack, and it will make your house smell amazing.
Be creative!
Finding new uses for overripe bananas is a great way to save money and reduce waste in your kitchen.
Next time you see those brown spots on your bananas, don't be so quick to throw them away. Instead, use them as an opportunity for a little culinary creativity!