If you’re intrigued by the idea of transforming banana peels into something unique and delicious, then you’ll love this simple recipe for banana peel honey! It’s a fantastic way to make use of banana peels, and it requires only two ingredients. This honey alternative is not only easy to make but also free from added sugars, making it a healthier choice.

Banana Peel Honey Recipe

Ingredients:

• Banana Peels: From 4-5 ripe bananas (the riper, the better for a sweeter result).

• Water: Enough to cover the banana peels in your pot.

• Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of cinnamon for enhanced flavor.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peels:

   • Thoroughly wash the bananas to remove any pesticides or impurities.

   • Peel the bananas and scrape off any excess stringy bits from the inside of the peels. Cut the peels into small pieces to maximize the surface area.

2. Cook the Peels:

   • Place the banana peel pieces in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.

   • Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30-45 minutes, or until the peels are very soft and the liquid has taken on a syrupy quality.

3. Blend and Strain:

   • Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then transfer to a blender. Blend until completely smooth.

   • Strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl, pressing or squeezing to extract as much liquid as possible.

4. Reduce the Liquid:

   • Pour the strained liquid back into the pot and simmer over low heat. Allow the liquid to reduce until it thickens and becomes syrupy, resembling the consistency of honey. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the amount of liquid.

5. Flavor (Optional):

   • Once the mixture has begun to thicken, you can add a squeeze of lemon for a slight tartness or a dash of cinnamon for a warm spice note. Stir well to incorporate.

6. Cool and Store:

   • Allow the banana peel honey to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips for Success:

• Adjust Consistency: If your banana peel honey is too thick, you can thin it with a little warm water until you reach the desired consistency.

• Serving Suggestions: Use your banana peel honey as a spread on toast, a sweetener in teas or smoothies, or drizzle it over pancakes and yogurt.

Conclusion

This banana peel honey is not only a creative and sustainable way to reduce food waste but also provides a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional honey. By repurposing banana peels, you’re making an environmentally friendly choice that also adds a unique twist to your culinary creations. Give this recipe a try, and you might find yourself looking at banana peels in a whole new light!