I heard a rumor that banana peels could be made to mimic bacon and as a non-meat eater, I knew I had to give it a try. It turned out that not only was this simple to make, but it also reduced food waste – a win-win in my book! Did you know the peel of the banana is full of antioxidants that help our immune system and ward of disease? The peels are also full of additional potassium and fiber – both good for gut health!
What did banana bacon taste like?
This version of banana peel bacon tastes slightly sweetened from the maple syrup and coconut aminos and pantry staple spices make it a bit tangy. It was a bit crunchy and chewy and really did have the texture of bacon (I tried bacon as a child)!!
For this recipe, you will need:
- Banana Peels: make sure these are scrubbed, rinsed, and dried well to remove pesticides and remove the stem and any excess flesh on the inside of the peel. Use organic bananas since you are eating the peels and that is what is sprayed with pesticides
- Coconut Aminos: I like to use this instead of soy sauce or liquid aminos, but you could use those if you have them
- Olive Oil: I use EVOO (extra virgin) since it’s not refined or processed
- Paprika
- Garlic Powder
- Maple Syrup: this adds a hint of sweetness
- Salt
Tips:
- Use organic bananas to ensure the least amount of pesticides
- Make sure to wash and scrub your banana peel very well to remove any pesticides or residue
- Use a very ripe banana (ones with brown spots ideally) since this will give the bacon added flavor and have it taste better and sweeter
- Use a spoon to scrape off extra flesh inside of the banana peel
- Soak your banana peels in the coconut amino mixture for 10-15 minutes to soak up flavor
- I made these both on the stove top and in the air fryer
To make in the air fryer:
- After marinading the peels, preheat air fryer to 380 degrees for 4 minutes
- Line the air fryer with tin foil keeping some holes exposed
- Line air fryer base with peels trying not to overlap each other, but making sure they are heavy enough to hold down the tin foil
- Cook at 380 degrees for 6 minutes, flip/shake, then cook for another 2-4 minutes depending on the thickness of your peels and the type and size of air fryer. Continue until all peels are cooked
- Timing may vary due to size and type of air fryer
How to Store:
- I would suggest making these and eating them right away!
Banana recipes to try:
Banana Peel Bacon
Cooking & Baking Supplies
- Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 banana peels (organic)
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- sprinkle of salt
Instructions
- Wash banana peels well and dry them.
- Pull off banana peels into sections (they should rip off easily).
- Scrape out the inside flesh of each banana peel using a spoon.
- Make your peel marinade In an 8x8 pan by adding the coconut aminos, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, maple syrup, and salt and then mixing well. Then coat both sides of the banana peels with the mixture and let them marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Place a medium pan over medium/high heat and let it get hot. Then add banana peels and cook on both sides for 2-3 minutes until they get a little charred.
- Remove from heat and enjoy it like bacon!
Did you make this recipe?Tag @girlswhoeat!
