He banana of Canary Islands, known for its yellow variant and the more recent red varietyhas embarked on a bold project that has given life to the blue banana, a new and surprising variety that is already grown in the Archipelago.
This exciting project is the result of collaboration between the Agricultural Federation of Unions of Tenerife (FAST), the company Cultivos y Tecnología Agraria de Tenerife (CULTESA), and farmers like Eduardo León, who has become the first and only grower of blue bananas in the Canary Islands to date. Although it is not yet available in supermarkets, this innovative crop is in the testing phase and we will soon be able to taste this new Canarian variety.
What is blue banana?
Despite its striking appearance, the blue banana It is not a genetically modified creation., but a hybrid of two species of bananas native to Southeast Asia: Musa balbisiana (Malay plantain) and Musa acuminata (pink plantain). When green, its shell exhibits a blue-green hue due to the natural waxes that cover it, although this color tends to fade as it matures, finally acquiring an appearance similar to that of the traditional banana.
The blue banana stands out for its resistance to cold, being able to withstand temperatures down to -5ºC. Its size is slightly shorter than that of the yellow canary varietymeasuring around 16-17 cm, and its peel is more velvety compared to the smooth peel of the Canarian banana.
Regarding its nutritional properties, the blue banana is known in other places as “Hawaiian Ice Cream Banana” either “Ice Cream Banana” due to its flesh, which has a creamy consistency and a dull yellow color reminiscent of ice cream, with a soft vanilla flavor.
Despite its differences in texture and flavor compared to the yellow banana from the Canary Islands, Their nutritional composition is similar. For every hundred grams, blue banana provides around 105 calories, 1.5 grams of protein, 27 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber. In addition, it is a source of fiber, vitamin B6, manganese, vitamin C, copper, potassium and magnesium. Despite its carbohydrate content, Its low glycemic index makes it a suitable option for those looking to avoid blood sugar spikes.
The blue banana appears as a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed alone as a dessert or snack, and its skin is easily removed, just like that of the yellow banana. In addition, it is ideal for preparing desserts such as sponge cakes or panacottas, especially when combined with cinnamon, a spice that enhances its vanilla flavor.
Also It can be incorporated into smoothies or milkshakes, often accompanied by a cinnamon stick or a pinch of this spice sprinkled on top.. The blue banana promises to offer a unique culinary experience to lovers of this tropical fruit in the Canary Islands and beyond.
