Description
Green Banana Run Down is a delightful vegan Caribbean dish that features tender green bananas cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices and herbs. This flavorful Jamaican recipe offers a rich and comforting meal, perfect for dinner and a true taste of Caribbean cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Main Dish
- 7 medium Green Bananas - Choose medium-sized for the best texture.
- 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil - Feel free to substitute with any neutral oil.
- 1 medium Onion - Chopped, adds sweetness and depth.
- 4 cloves Garlic - Minced, for savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Ginger - Grated, enhances warmth.
- 2 Green Onions - Chopped, offers freshness.
- 1 medium Tomato - Chopped, brings acidity.
- 2 sprigs Thyme - Key herb in Jamaican cuisine.
- 1/4 teaspoon Allspice - Can substitute with cinnamon or nutmeg.
- 1/2 teaspoon Creole/Cajun Seasoning - Optional, adds extra kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt - To taste.
- 1 can (15 ounces) Coconut Milk - Vital for creamy texture.
- 1 Scotch Bonnet Pepper - Adjust for spice preference.
Instructions
- Prepare the Bananas: Peel 7 medium green bananas by cutting off the ends and making a small cut along the side of each banana to remove the skin carefully.
- Boil the Bananas: In a large pot of boiling water, gently place the peeled bananas and cook them until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and set aside once cooked.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes until soft. Then mix in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onions and cook until fragrant.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the chopped tomato, thyme sprigs, allspice, optional Creole/Cajun seasoning, coconut milk, and salt. Add the Scotch Bonnet pepper to add authentic heat to the dish.
- Simmer the Dish: Gently add the boiled bananas into the skillet and raise the heat to bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-8 minutes.
- Serve: Dish out the Green Banana Run Down immediately, ideally alongside Jamaican steamed cabbage or your favorite rice dish for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the Scotch Bonnet pepper to your spice tolerance; removing the seeds will reduce heat.
- You can substitute coconut oil with vegetable or canola oil if preferred.
- Make sure to boil the bananas thoroughly to achieve the desired tender texture.
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, bread, or steamed cabbage for a classic Caribbean experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican
