| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 60 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 285 | 12g | 7g | 44g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 25g | 2g | 3g | 0.48g |
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When I first stumbled upon the unique fruit known as the red medlar, I was immediately fascinated. Its tart and almost apple-like flavor struck a chord with me. I knew that combining it with bananas could elevate a classic comfort dish. That’s how the idea for Red Medlar and Banana Bread was born.
A United Flavor Palette
The Red Medlar and Banana Bread recipe is a heavenly blend of sweet and tangy. The red medlar’s tartness provides a counterpoint to the natural sweetness of the bananas, creating a beautifully balanced loaf that sings with flavor in each bite. Growing up with a palette developed from Montana’s naturally rich and wholesome foods, I have always leaned towards recipes that marry unexpected flavors, and this one fits the bill perfectly.
The wholesome, well-rounded flavors aren’t the only reason this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the cozy, warm kitchens of my upbringing, where the memorable scents of huckleberry pies and venison steaks mingled in the air. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread holds nostalgia in every slice while adding a contemporary twist.
Nutritious and Delicious
Health-wise, there are several benefits to this delightful recipe. Bananas are packed with essential vitamins and minerals including potassium, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B6. They are well known for their energy-boosting properties. Red medlars are also nutritional powerhouses, offering a good dose of fiber, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A. The amalgamation of these fruits yields a bread recipe that’s not just tasty, but also nutrient-rich.
Pair this loaf with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect breakfast or brunch option. It could also serve as a superb companion to a savory dish like a rich butternut squash soup or a hearty beef stew. Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to use up any ripe bananas you might have lying around.
If you’re a fan of classic banana bread, you will find this recipe refreshingly different, yet comfortingly familiar. Incorporating red medlars adds a layer of sophistication and an unexpected taste that will beguile your taste buds and become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. This is the magic of Red Medlar and Banana Bread – it’s more than a loaf; it’s an experience waiting to be savored.
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What You’ll Need
- 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2-3 ripe bananas)
- 1 cup mashed red medlars
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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Method
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Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mashed bananas (about 2-3 ripe bananas) and 1 cup of mashed red medlars. Mix until well combined.
Step Three
Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup unsalted melted butter to the fruit mixture. Stir until the sugars are completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Step Four
Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step Five
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
Step Six
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter.
Step Seven
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
Step Eight
Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Step Nine
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
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