All Kinds Of Banana In The Philippines
The Philippines has always been known for its abundance of tropical fruits, and amongst these, bananas are a staple. The country produces various types of bananas that are not only delicious but also have several health benefits. In this article, we will explore the different kinds of bananas that are available in the Philippines, their unique features, and their uses.
The Cavendish Banana
The Cavendish banana is perhaps the most common type of banana that you will find in the Philippines. It is a cultivar that was first grown in the 1950s to replace the Gros Michel banana that was virtually wiped out by a fungus called Panama disease. The Cavendish banana is small to medium-sized, has a sweet taste, and is preferred for cooking and baking due to its firm texture. It is also the most exported banana from the Philippines.
The Latundan Banana
The Latundan banana is another common type in the Philippines. It is medium-sized, has a pale yellow color, and a sweet flavor. What sets it apart from the Cavendish banana is that it has thinner skin, and it is easier to peel. It is commonly eaten fresh and is popularly used in making banana cue, a sweet Filipino snack made by caramelizing the bananas in brown sugar and skewering them on bamboo sticks.
The Saba Banana
The Saba banana is a cooking banana that is popular in the Philippines. It is short and chubby, with a thick skin and starchy flesh. It is used in various Filipino dishes such as turon (banana and jackfruit rolls), maruya (banana fritters), and banana chips. The Saba banana is also used in making banana ketchup, a popular condiment in the Philippines that is used instead of tomato ketchup.
The Bungulan Banana
The Bungulan banana is a rare variety that is found only in the mountainous regions of the Philippines. It is a medium-sized banana with a sweet and tangy flavor. It is eaten fresh or used in making smoothies and desserts. This banana variety is high in vitamin C and has anti-inflammatory properties.
The Lakatan Banana
The Lakatan banana is a popular variety that is commonly grown in the southern part of the Philippines. It is medium-sized, has a bright yellow color, and a sweet and tangy flavor. It is commonly eaten fresh and is used in making banana chips and preserves. The Lakatan banana is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making it a nutritious snack.
The Senorita Banana
The Senorita banana is a small and sweet banana that is native to the Philippines. It is usually eaten fresh as a snack, but it can also be used in making smoothies and desserts. This banana variety is rich in fiber and potassium, making it good for digestion and heart health.
The Burro Banana
The Burro banana, also known as the Orinoco banana, is a small, stubby banana that is grown in the Philippines. It has a slightly tangy taste, and its texture is firmer than that of other bananas. This banana variety is used in making tamales, empanadas, and other baked goods. It is also used in some Latin American cuisines as a substitute for plantains.
In conclusion, the Philippines has an impressive variety of bananas, each with its unique flavor, texture, and benefits. Whether you eat them fresh or use them for cooking, bananas are a versatile fruit that can add a delicious and healthy touch to your meals. So why not add some of these Philippine bananas to your next grocery list and try them out for yourself?