The Cuban content creator @mi.cocina.italian, originally from Santiago de Cuba, has revived a traditional recipe in one of her videos that many Cubans remember with nostalgia: bananina.
It is a homemade food made from dehydrated green bananas that has been an essential part of the diet in households on the island for years.
In her post, the young woman explains step by step how she prepared this product in a handcrafted manner, regarded as a nutritious, easily digestible food that is very beneficial for babies and recovering individuals.
The bananina was obtained by peeling green bananas, slicing them very thinly, and leaving them to dry in the sun for several days until they lost all moisture.
They were then ground until a fine powder was obtained, similar to cornstarch, but with a distinctive banana flavor and a high content of fiber and natural energy.
This powder could be used to prepare creams, porridges, desserts, or soups. It is employed in both sweet and savory dishes. It was a classic example of a resourceful recipe, born out of necessity and the creative spirit of the Cuban people.
However, today it is almost impossible to prepare it due to the shortage of basic food items the country is experiencing and the high price of bananas in the markets.
Many traditional Cuban recipes are disappearing, and thanks to videos like those of this popular influencer, they will reach new generations as a symbol of resilience and culinary culture.
Have you ever tried bananina? Tell us how it was made in your home or if you still have that family recipe.
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