What's the Difference Between Bananas and Plantains?

At first glance in a grocery store, bananas and plantains look quite similar. Both have a yellow peel when ripe, but plantains are typically larger and have thicker skin. Both also belong to the genus Musa banana family. 

If you’re not paying attention, you might grab a plantain thinking it’s just a hefty banana! (I’m talking from experience.)

Once you take a bite, you’ll notice the different tastes immediately. Bananas are sweet and soft, perfect for snacking right off the peel.

Plantains, however, have a unique flavor. They are starchy and less sweet when green; they become sweeter as they ripen but still retain a firmer texture. If you mistakenly bite into a green plantain expecting that sweet taste in bananas, your taste buds might be in for a surprise!

I’ll explain the differences between bananas and plantains regarding shape, taste, and of course, nutritional value. 

Bananas vs Plantains: A Quick Glance

Ripe bananas are typically sweet, with a soft texture and yellow skin. They are often eaten raw as a snack or used in desserts. Ripe plantains are starchy and less sweet, making them ideal for savory dishes. Think of them as the versatile sidekick in your kitchen adventures.

Keep in mind that both bananas and plantains have green skin when unripe. 

Bananas are great in desserts, breakfast bowls, or simply enjoyed raw. They’re the go-to for a quick energy boost. Yellow plantains shine when fried, boiled, or baked. You might have them in as fried green plantains or as a hearty addition to stews.

Note: Both bananas and plantains should be kept at room temperature without moisture contamination to avoid black spots and soggy taste. 

Origins of Bananas and Plantains an African Cuisines

Both bananas and plantains trace their roots back to Southeast Asia, where they were cultivated thousands of years ago.

They made their way to Africa through trade routes, becoming a staple food in various cuisines along the way. They’re also fairly common in the United States and South America. 

Popularity in African Countries:

In Africa, both bananas and plantains hold a special place on many plates:

• Nigeria: Plantains are a must-have! You’ll often find them fried as plantain chips or used in delicious stews that warm the soul and improve digestive health. 
• Ghana: Here, plantains are celebrated in dishes like kelewele, which are spicy fried plantain bites that make for an irresistible snack.
• Uganda: Known for their matoke (steamed green bananas), Ugandans enjoy this dish as a staple part of their meals, often served with rich sauces.
• Congo: Plantain consumption here is usually in the form of fufu, a starchy side dish that pairs perfectly with meat stews.
• Tanzania: Both bananas and plantains are used a lot in local cuisine, often found in flavorful curries and grilled dishes.

Banana vs Plantain: The Nutritional Profiles

Here’s how much nutrition is present in 100 grams of bananas and plantains: 

**Note that this nutritional table applies to bananas and plantains only when they’re ripe. If they’re still unripe they’ll have fewer health benefits. 

As you can see, plantains are slightly higher in calories and carbohydrates compared to bananas, making them a more energy-dense option. Plantains also shine with significantly higher vitamin A content, which is great for eye health, while bananas offer a bit more vitamin C. That massive Vitamin A amount is sometimes considered the main difference between banana nutrition and plantain nutrition.

As you can see, both fruits are excellent sources of potassium, but plantains take the lead in almost every category, (except for fiber content). Eating a banana is the easier choice as it is raw with slightly less nutrition, but good if you want a quick boost in your blood sugar levels. If you prefer to cook and get some more nutrition, a plantain is the way to go.

So, Which One Should You Eat?

Both bananas and plantains are among the most important crops worldwide. If you’re looking for something sweet and quick, grab a banana and enjoy it on the go. But if you’re ready to whip up a delicious dish that requires a little cooking magic, reach for a plantain. Keep in mind that plantain also has less sugar. 

With both fruits in your kitchen, you’ll always have delicious options at your fingertips—because who doesn’t love a good fruit salad alongside some perfectly fried plantains? Happy munching!

Resources

• https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/vitamin-deficiency
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/plantain-vs-banana
• https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/banana-vs-plantain-which-is-healthier/
• https://primeplanet.net/blog/are-plantains-healthier-than-bananas/