Apr 22
Bananas originated in Malaysia 4,000 years ago, and were fist introduced into Africa before Portuguese
explorers took them to the Americas in the late 15th century. Today bananas are the second largest fruit crop with India, Brazil, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Mexico being the biggest producers.
Although it looks like a tree, the banana grows on a plant that belongs to the orchid family. There are hundreds of varieties, and they all fall into two distinct groups, the sweet variety and the plantain that is used for cooking.
In some Latin American countries tamales are sometimes steamed and served in banana leaves.
explorers took them to the Americas in the late 15th century. Today bananas are the second largest fruit crop with India, Brazil, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Mexico being the biggest producers.Although it looks like a tree, the banana grows on a plant that belongs to the orchid family. There are hundreds of varieties, and they all fall into two distinct groups, the sweet variety and the plantain that is used for cooking.
In some Latin American countries tamales are sometimes steamed and served in banana leaves.
Health Benefits
- Bananas are high in potassium, an element important in the regulation of blood pressure.
- Bananas have high pectin content, a soluble fiber that assists in the lowering of cholesterol.
