We’ve all faced the frustration of bananas ripening too quickly and going to waste. But with a few simple tricks, you can store and use bananas long after they turn brown or black. Here’s how to make the most of your bananas and keep them fresh for longer!
Selecting Bananas for Baking
For baking, choose bananas with lots of brown spots and a sweet aroma. These signs of ripeness indicate that the bananas are at their peak flavor. The browner (or even blacker) they are on the outside, the better they’ll be for recipes like banana bread or cakes.
How to Store Ripe Bananas
If you’re not ready to use your ripe bananas right away, freeze them to extend their shelf life. Frozen bananas are perfect for baking, smoothies, or thawing when you need them.
Freezing Tips:
- Peel the bananas before freezing to avoid mess.
- Store them in an airtight bag or container.
- You can freeze them whole or slice them into pieces for easier use later.
Speeding Up Ripening
Need ripe bananas fast? Try these methods:
- Paper Bag Trick: Place bananas in a paper bag with an apple or avocado. The ethylene gas they release will speed up ripening.
- Warm Spot Method: Leave bananas in a warm area, like near a sunny window or in a warm kitchen corner.
Why Use Ripe Bananas for Baking?
see continuation on next page
