Description
Homemade Banana Powder is a versatile, natural ingredient made by dehydrating ripe bananas and grinding them into a fine powder. It’s perfect for adding natural sweetness and banana flavor to smoothies, baked goods, and desserts without any preservatives or additives. This recipe guides you through the simple process of drying banana slices using either a dehydrator or an oven, then grinding them into powder for long-term storage.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 3-4 ripe bananas (or as many as you want to make)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
Instructions
- Prepare Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them into thin rounds or chunks to ensure even drying.
- Optional Lemon Juice Application: Lightly brush the banana slices with lemon juice to help preserve their natural color and reduce browning during drying.
- Arrange Slices: Place the banana slices evenly on a dehydrator tray or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they do not overlap for proper air circulation.
- Dry Using Dehydrator: Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and dry the slices for 6-12 hours. Check occasionally until the bananas are completely dry and crispy.
- Dry Using Oven: Preheat the oven to its lowest temperature setting, about 170°F (77°C). Place the banana slices on a baking sheet and bake for 2-3 hours, flipping occasionally until fully dried and crisp.
- Cool the Dried Bananas: Once dried, let the banana slices cool completely to room temperature before grinding.
- Grind into Powder: Use a spice grinder or blender to grind the dried banana slices into a fine, powdery consistency.
- Storage: Store the banana powder in an airtight container kept in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh for up to 6 months.
Notes
- Using lemon juice is optional but helps maintain the bright color of the banana slices.
- Drying times may vary depending on slice thickness, humidity, and your drying equipment.
- Ensure bananas are completely dry and crisp before grinding to prevent clumping and mold growth.
- Banana powder can be used in smoothies, baking recipes, or as a natural sweetener.
- Store in airtight, moisture-proof containers to maintain freshness.
