Secrets of Spanish Bananas

Spain plays an important role in banana production in Europe, being one of the main producers of this delicious fruit on the continent. Although it is not the largest producer of bananas in the world, it contributes significantly to the distribution of bananas in the European region.

Types of Bananas:
When we talk about bananas, we often forget that there are several different varieties of this fruit. The two most popular varieties are bananas and plantains. They differ both in taste and in the way they are prepared.

• Banana: Bananas, which we usually find in supermarkets, are known for their sweet taste and delicate texture. They are typically eaten raw, either as a snack or as a side dish, such as oatmeal or smoothies.
• Plantano: Plantains are more starchy and less sweet than bananas. They are often eaten cooked or fried, both as desserts and main dishes. They are more popular in Caribbean and Latin American cuisines.

Differences in Ripeness:
The color of bananas can be an indicator of their ripeness. Here's a quick guide:

GREEN Bananas: in their green state are still unripe and they are usually hard and sour in taste. They are suitable for cooking or frying, but are not recommended for eating raw.

YELLOW Bananas:, which are yellow in color, are ripe and ready to eat. They have a sweeter taste and softer texture than the green ones. They are ideal raw as a healthy snack. Yellow with brown spots will be the sweetest! It will also provide us with a lot of sugar in the body the fastest.

BROWN Bananas: with brown color are already very ripe and even overripe. They have they have a more intense flavor and are very sweet. They are suitable for use in recipes for cakes, muffins or smoothies.

Health Benefits of Bananas:
In addition to their unique flavor, bananas are also rich in nutrients and have many health benefits. They are a source of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium and fiber.

• Potassium: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle and nerve function.
• Vitamin C: This vitamin helps strengthen the body's immune system and supports healthy development of tissues and organs.
• Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 found in bananas plays a role in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, also supporting the nervous system.
• Fiber: Bananas are rich in fiber, which supports the proper functioning of the digestive system and regulates blood cholesterol.