There are hundreds of types of banana plants that grow throughout the world. However, not all of these plants actually produce bananas. Some plants do not produce any edible fruit but are used in landscaping for their beautiful foliage. Other banana plants produce plantains, which are sometimes called "cooking bananas." Plantains look like just like bananas but taste more like squash or potatoes. They are often used in Latin American cooking.
Some of the varieties of bananas that you might find in your local grocery store include the following:
- Cavendish Bananas: This variety is America's favorite. It is the commercial variety that is always available in your local supermarket. Bobby Banana is a Cavendish banana.
- Baby Bananas (also known as Dwarf or Finger Bananas): As the name suggests, baby bananas are smaller versions of the Cavendish with a thinner peel and a sweeter taste.
- Apple Bananas (also known as Manzano Bananas): Apple bananas are short plump bananas with an apple after-taste, which many people love.
- Red Bananas: These short, chunky bananas have red skin that starts to turn dark purple when they are ripe. Red bananas are very sweet and creamy and sometimes have a mild strawberry flavour.
- Plantains: Many people think plantains look like large green bananas. While they look similar, they are quite different. Plantains are starchy like a potato, not sweet like a regular banana. Plantains are usually cooked and served as a starchy side dish, like corn or potatoes.
Try a new variety of banana next time you're at the store. You will be surprised at how delicious and different they all taste.
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