Green Banana Stir-Fry with Coconut Milk: Simple Recipe, Hometown Flavor

Have you ever tried green banana stir-fry with coconut milk? This is a rustic dish that embodies the flavors of home, especially popular in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. If you’re familiar with sweet ripe bananas, explore the unique aspect of green bananas through this simple recipe shared by the Recipe Notebook.

Green banana stir-fry with coconut milk

The Unique Origin of Green Banana Stir-Fry with Coconut Milk

The dish green banana stir-fry with coconut milk originated from the riverine areas of the Mekong Delta, where coconut and bananas became staple ingredients in daily meals. The locals created this dish from what was readily available, combining the astringent taste of green bananas, the richness of coconut milk, the sweetness of sugar, and the savory flavor of spices. The result is a harmonious and unique dish that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.

In the past, when meat and fish were scarce, dishes made from vegetables like green bananas became a valuable source of nutrition. Not only delicious, this dish also represents family warmth through every cozy meal.

Ingredients Needed to Make Green Banana Stir-Fry with Coconut Milk

To prepare green banana stir-fry with coconut milk, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• Green bananas: Plantains or green bananas, choose fruits at the right stage of ripeness (5-7 fruits).
• Coconut milk: 200ml (prefer fresh coconut milk for a richer flavor).
• Shallots: 2-3 bulbs.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves.
• Chili peppers: 1-2 peppers (depending on taste).

Seasonings:

• Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon.
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon.
• MSG: ½ teaspoon (optional).
• Ground pepper: A pinch.

Tip: To make the dish more appealing, you can prepare crushed roasted peanuts and scallions for garnish.

Ingredients for green banana stir-fry with coconut milk

Detailed Instructions for Making Green Banana Stir-Fry with Coconut Milk

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Green bananas:
  Wash, peel, and soak in lightly salted water for about 15-20 minutes to reduce bitterness and prevent darkening. Then slice diagonally or into bite-sized pieces. Briefly boil the bananas in boiling water for 3-5 minutes to soften them before stir-frying.
• Shallots, garlic, chili peppers:
  Peel and finely chop.

Step 2: Stir-Fry Green Bananas with Coconut Milk

1. Sauté the chopped shallots and garlic in hot oil until fragrant.
2. Add the pre-boiled bananas to the pan and quickly stir-fry over high heat for 2-3 minutes.
3. Season with fish sauce, sugar, salt, and MSG, then stir well to let the bananas absorb the flavors.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, reduce the heat, and simmer until the coconut milk thickens and the bananas are tender and well-seasoned.

Step 3: Finish and Present

Transfer the bananas to a plate, sprinkle with ground pepper, crushed roasted peanuts, and scallions. The dish is best enjoyed hot with white rice.

How to make green banana stir-fry with coconut milk

Tips to Enhance the Appeal of the Dish

• Choose the right bananas: Plantains or green bananas are the best choices.
• Soak bananas properly: Soak in lightly salted water or add a bit of alum to keep the bananas white and crunchy.
• Briefly boil the bananas: Helps maintain their vibrant green color and prevents them from becoming mushy when stir-fried.
• Stir-fry quickly: Stir-fry the bananas over high heat to keep them tender and not mushy.

Nutritional Value of Green Banana Stir-Fry with Coconut Milk

The dish green banana stir-fry with coconut milk is not only delicious but also nutritious:

• Green bananas: Rich in fiber, potassium, vitamins B6 and C, supporting digestion and heart health.
• Coconut milk: Provides healthy fats and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and iron.

Note: Due to the high calorie content from coconut milk and sugar, you should enjoy this dish in moderation.

How to Enjoy Green Banana Stir-Fry with Coconut Milk the Right Way

• With white rice: The dish is most delicious when served hot with white rice.
• With braised dishes: Pairs well with braised dishes like braised fish or braised pork.
• With fresh vegetables: Serve with lettuce and herbs to balance flavors and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Banana Stir-Fry with Coconut Milk

1. Can I use canned coconut milk instead of fresh coconut milk?

Yes, but fresh coconut milk will be more flavorful and richer.

2. How can I prevent the bananas from turning dark?

Soak the bananas in lightly salted water or alum water.

3. Can this dish be vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce and add mushrooms and tofu.

Conclusion

With its unique flavor and simple preparation, green banana stir-fry with coconut milk is sure to be an exciting dish to add to your family’s menu. Try it today and share your results with us!

Don’t forget to follow the Recipe Notebook to discover more delicious recipes!

Finished green banana stir-fry with coconut milk