Burro Banana 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Burro Banana: A Complete Guide

What is Burro Banana

Burro bananas, also known as “finger bananas” or “burro plantains,” are a type of banana that’s shorter and thicker than the common Cavendish bananas we usually see in stores. They have a distinct, slightly tangy flavor that sets them apart, making them perfect for both eating raw and cooking. When you bite into a ripe burro banana, the texture is creamy yet firm, and it has a sweet taste that can remind you of a blend between a banana and a hint of apple. These bananas turn bright yellow as they ripen, and their skin is often a bit thicker than that of regular bananas. They’re packed with nutrients, including potassium and vitamin C, which are great for your health. You can enjoy them on their own, slice them into cereal, or even fry them for a tasty treat. Overall, burro bananas are a unique and delicious option that adds variety to your fruit choices.

Other Names of Burro Banana

Here’s a list of other names for burro bananas along with some details about each one:

1. Finger Banana: This name comes from their smaller, finger-like shape. They’re often called this because they’re easy to grab and eat, making them a convenient snack.
2. Nino Banana: In some places, burro bananas are referred to as “nino bananas,” which means “child” in Spanish. This name highlights their smaller size, making them popular among kids.
3. Plantain Banana: While not exactly the same as the plantains you might see in the store, burro bananas can sometimes be included in the plantain category because of their starchy texture when they’re not fully ripe.
4. Macho Banana: In certain regions, they’re called “macho bananas,” which emphasizes their thicker, sturdier build compared to regular bananas.
5. Cavendish Variant: Some people may refer to them as a variant of the Cavendish banana family, but they are distinct in flavor and texture.

These names can vary based on where you are, and each one reflects a little something special about burro bananas.

Nutritional Value of Burro Banana

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a medium-sized Burro Banana (about 120 grams) based on USDA data:

Nutrient	Amount per 120g Banana
Calories	105
Total Fat	0.3g
Saturated Fat	0.1g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	1mg
Total Carbohydrates	27g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	14g
Protein	1.3g
Vitamin A	76 IU
Vitamin C	10.3mg
Calcium	6mg
Iron	0.3mg
Potassium	422mg

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the size of the banana. The nutritional content can also be influenced by factors such as ripeness and growing conditions.

Benefits of Burro Banana

Here’s a list of benefits of burro bananas that highlight why they’re a great addition to your diet:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Burro bananas are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They contain a good amount of potassium, which helps keep your heart healthy and maintains proper muscle function. Plus, they’re a great source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system.
2. High in Fiber: These bananas are high in dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Eating fiber helps keep your gut healthy and can prevent constipation, making your digestive system work better overall.
3. Natural Energy Booster: Burro bananas provide a quick source of energy thanks to their natural sugars. This makes them a fantastic snack before or after exercise, giving you that extra boost you need without the crash that comes from sugary snacks.
4. Versatile in Cooking: You can use burro bananas in many ways. You can eat them raw, cook them, or even fry them. Their unique flavor makes them a delicious addition to smoothies, cereal, or even baked goods.
5. Good for Mood: Eating bananas can help improve your mood. They contain tryptophan, an amino acid that your body uses to make serotonin, which is a hormone that helps regulate mood. So, snacking on burro bananas might just make you feel a bit happier!
6. Low in Calories: They are relatively low in calories compared to other snacks, making them a healthier choice if you’re watching your weight. They fill you up without packing on too many calories.

These benefits make burro bananas not just tasty but also a smart choice for a healthy diet.

Varieties of Burro Banana

Here are some varieties of burro bananas that you might find interesting:

1. Green Burro Banana: These are the unripe version of burro bananas. They’re starchy and firm, making them perfect for cooking. You can slice them and fry or boil them, and they’ll have a different taste compared to the ripe ones.
2. Ripe Burro Banana: When these bananas turn bright yellow, they are ready to eat. They become sweeter and softer, making them great for snacking or adding to smoothies and desserts.
3. Overripe Burro Banana: Once burro bananas start developing brown spots, they are very sweet and soft. These are ideal for baking, as their sweetness can enhance recipes like banana bread or pancakes.
4. Burro Plantain: Sometimes, people refer to a type of burro banana as a burro plantain, especially when it’s used for cooking. While they are similar, plantains are usually larger and need to be cooked before eating.
5. Mini Burro Banana: This is a smaller version of the standard burro banana. They are cute and easy to snack on, perfect for kids or as a quick treat.

These varieties show how versatile burro bananas can be, whether you’re looking to cook or just enjoy a tasty snack.

What Does Burro Banana Taste Like

Burro bananas have a unique taste that’s a bit different from regular bananas. When you bite into a ripe burro banana, you’ll notice that it’s sweet but with a slightly tangy flavor that adds some interesting depth. The texture is creamy yet firm, making it satisfying to eat. Some people say it has hints of apple or even pear, which can surprise you if you’re used to the classic banana flavor. When they’re not fully ripe, burro bananas can be a little starchy, similar to plantains, and can be cooked to bring out their sweetness. Overall, they offer a delicious combination of flavors that make them enjoyable on their own or in various dishes.

How To Use Burro Banana

Here are some great ways to use burro bananas that can add a delicious twist to your meals and snacks:

1. Eat Them Raw: The simplest way to enjoy burro bananas is to peel and eat them as they are. Their sweet and slightly tangy flavor makes for a tasty snack any time of the day.
2. Add to Smoothies: You can slice up ripe burro bananas and toss them into your smoothies. They blend well and add a creamy texture along with natural sweetness, making your drink extra delicious.
3. Make Banana Bread: Overripe burro bananas are perfect for baking! You can mash them up and mix them into your banana bread recipe. Their sweetness will enhance the flavor, and the texture will keep the bread moist.
4. Fry Them: For a fun treat, you can slice green or ripe burro bananas and fry them in a little oil. This gives them a crispy outside while keeping the inside soft, creating a delicious snack or side dish.
5. Add to Cereal or Oatmeal: Sliced burro bananas can be a great addition to your morning cereal or oatmeal. They add sweetness and a bit of extra nutrition, making your breakfast more satisfying.
6. Use in Desserts: You can use burro bananas in various desserts. Think of layering them in parfaits, mixing them into puddings, or even using them in fruit salads for a different taste.
7. In Savory Dishes: You can also include cooked burro bananas in savory meals. Try adding them to stir-fries or curries for a unique flavor that balances well with spices.

These ideas show how versatile burro bananas can be, whether you’re looking for a quick snack or an ingredient to spice up your cooking.

Substitute for Burro Banana

Here are some good substitutes for burro bananas that you can use if you can’t find them or just want to try something different:

1. Cavendish Banana: This is the most common type of banana you find in stores. While they are sweeter and softer than burro bananas, they can work well in recipes like smoothies or banana bread. Just keep in mind that they won’t have that slight tanginess.
2. Plantains: If you want something that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, plantains are a great option. They have a starchy texture and are perfect for frying or cooking. Just remember to use green plantains for savory dishes and ripe ones for sweeter applications.
3. Red Banana: These bananas are similar in shape to burro bananas but have a reddish-purple skin. They have a sweeter flavor and are great for eating raw or adding to smoothies. Their creaminess can make them a nice alternative in many recipes.
4. Apple or Pear: If you’re looking for a crunchy substitute, you can use apples or pears in dishes where you want a fresh, fruity flavor. They won’t have the same creaminess as burro bananas, but they can add a nice texture and sweetness to salads or desserts.
5. Frozen Banana: If you have ripe bananas on hand, you can freeze them and use them as a substitute in smoothies or baking. Just peel and slice them before freezing to make blending easier later on.
6. Mango: In recipes that require sweetness, like smoothies or desserts, ripe mango can be a fantastic substitute. It has a tropical flavor that can add a nice twist to your dish, although it won’t replicate the texture of burro bananas.

These substitutes can help you get creative in the kitchen, whether you’re baking, cooking, or just looking for a tasty snack.

Where to Buy Burro Banana

If you’re looking to buy burro bananas, here are some good places to check out:

1. Local Grocery Stores: Many grocery stores, especially those with a good selection of fresh produce, often carry burro bananas. Check the banana section, and if you don’t see them, ask a store employee—they might have them in the back or can let you know when they’ll be available.
2. Farmers’ Markets: Visiting a local farmers’ market is a great way to find fresh burro bananas. Farmers often sell unique varieties of fruits, and you can usually find them at stalls that focus on tropical or specialty produce.
3. Ethnic Markets: Stores that focus on Hispanic, Caribbean, or tropical foods often carry burro bananas. These markets tend to have a variety of banana types and can be a great place to explore different fruits.
4. Online Grocery Services: If you prefer shopping online, many grocery delivery services offer burro bananas. You can check websites like Instacart or Amazon Fresh to see if they’re available in your area.
5. Specialty Fruit Shops: Some cities have specialty fruit shops that focus on unique and hard-to-find produce. These places might have burro bananas, especially if they specialize in tropical fruits.
6. Co-ops and Health Food Stores: If you have a co-op or health food store nearby, they might carry burro bananas, especially if they focus on organic or locally sourced produce.

By exploring these options, you’ll have a better chance of finding delicious burro bananas to enjoy.

How To Store Burro Banana

Storing burro bananas properly is important to keep them fresh and tasty. Here’s how you can do it:

1. At Room Temperature

• Ripening Process: When you buy green burro bananas, they need time to ripen. Keeping them at room temperature allows them to gradually soften and develop their sweet flavor. This usually takes a few days, depending on how green they are when you buy them.
• Optimal Location: Store them in a cool, dry area of your kitchen, like a countertop or pantry, away from heat sources like the stove or direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause them to ripen too quickly, which might lead to spoilage before you get a chance to eat them.
• Using a Banana Hanger: If you have one, a banana hanger can help keep your burro bananas off surfaces, allowing air to circulate around them. This reduces bruising and helps them ripen evenly.

2. Separate from Other Fruits

• Ethylene Gas: Some fruits release ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening. By keeping burro bananas away from these fruits, you can control the ripening process better.
• Examples of Ethylene Producers: Apples, pears, and avocados are common fruits that give off ethylene gas. So, try to keep your burro bananas in their own spot, away from these.

3. Refrigerate Ripe Bananas

• When to Refrigerate: Once your burro bananas have ripened and are bright yellow, you can place them in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will slow down the ripening process and keep them fresh for a longer time.
• Skin Color Change: It’s normal for the skin to turn brown in the fridge; this doesn’t mean the fruit inside is spoiled. The flesh will stay firm and sweet, so don’t worry if the skin looks a bit unattractive.
• Use Within a Week: Aim to eat refrigerated burro bananas within a week for the best taste and texture. After this time, they might start to lose their quality.

4. Freeze for Later Use

• Preparation for Freezing: To freeze burro bananas, first peel them. You can slice them into chunks or leave them whole, depending on how you plan to use them later.
• Storage Methods: Place the peeled bananas in an airtight container or a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. You can also spread the slices on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a bag, so they don’t stick together.
• Usage Ideas: Frozen burro bananas are perfect for smoothies, where you can blend them directly from the freezer, or for baking, like banana bread or muffins. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before using in recipes.

5. Check for Spots

• Regular Monitoring: Make it a habit to check your burro bananas every couple of days, especially if they’re ripening quickly. Look for dark spots or areas that feel overly soft.
• Using Overripe Bananas: If you spot bananas that are starting to go bad, don’t throw them away! They can be used in various recipes. Overripe bananas are excellent for baking, as they add extra sweetness to banana bread, pancakes, or smoothies.

By following these detailed storage tips, you can make sure your burro bananas stay fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy whenever you want!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)