If you have never tried a classic Caribbean dish made with something as unique and comforting as green bananas, let me introduce you to the Green Banana Run Down Recipe. This delightful plant-based meal features green bananas simmered slowly in rich, creamy coconut milk infused with aromatic spices until the sauce thickens into a luscious coating. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, bold flavors, and that perfect balance of hearty texture from the starchy green bananas combined with the tropical warmth of coconut. It’s a perfect way to bring a taste of the Caribbean into your kitchen while exploring something a bit different yet totally satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for the Green Banana Run Down Recipe are straightforward yet essential to achieving that authentic, comforting Caribbean flavor. Each element adds its own character — from the creamy coconut milk, which forms the base of the sauce, to the vibrant seasonings that bring warmth and depth.
- 7 medium green bananas: These are the star ingredient, providing a starchy, potato-like texture perfect for absorbing flavors.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil: Adds richness and a subtle, nutty aroma that enhances the tropical feel.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Offers a mild sweetness and forms the flavor foundation with the garlic and ginger.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a savory, pungent kick essential for Caribbean dishes.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds a warm spiciness that brightens the dish.
- 2 green onions (scallions), chopped: Presents a fresh, slightly sharp onion flavor that elevates the complexity.
- 1 medium tomato, chopped: Brings acidity and a touch of sweetness that balances the richness.
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme: Infuses fresh, herbal notes critical for authentic Caribbean taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice: Adds a fragrant, spicy warmth reminiscent of Christmas spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (optional): Introduces a smoky, spicy complexity for those who like a little extra punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk: Creates the rich, creamy sauce that the green bananas simmer in.
- 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper (whole) or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides authentic island heat—adjust based on your spice tolerance.
How to Make Green Banana Run Down Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Green Bananas
Start by washing the green bananas thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Then, carefully cut off both ends of each banana. With a paring knife, make a shallow slit lengthwise through the peel. Take care not to slice into the flesh inside, as it needs to stay intact for the next step.
Step 2: Peel the Bananas
Use the slit you created as a guide to peel off the thick green skin. This might require a little patience since green banana peels are tougher than ripe ones. Once peeled, discard the skins and place your green bananas aside, ready for boiling.
Step 3: Boil the Bananas
Place the peeled bananas into a large pot and cover them completely with water. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for roughly 20 minutes or until you can easily pierce the bananas with a fork. This step softens the bananas and prepares them to absorb the vibrant sauce.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
While the bananas boil, heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté for about two minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onions, cooking for another minute to release those fresh, aromatic flavors that form the base of this Caribbean classic.
Step 5: Add Seasonings and Coconut Milk
Stir in the chopped tomato, fresh thyme sprigs, allspice, Creole seasoning (if you like a little extra kick), and salt. Then pour in the full can of coconut milk, allowing it to mingle with the spices. Add the whole Scotch Bonnet pepper if you want a subtle, layered heat, or substitute with cayenne pepper for an evenly distributed spiciness. Mix everything well to combine those rich, tropical flavors.
Step 6: Simmer the Bananas
Drain the boiled bananas and gently add them to your skillet with the coconut sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 5 to 8 minutes. This slow simmer thickens the sauce into a luxurious coating that clings to each banana perfectly, creating that sought-after “run down” texture and taste.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat once the sauce has thickened and the green bananas are beautifully coated. Serve the Green Banana Run Down Recipe hot, either as a hearty side dish or a unique centerpiece for a traditional Caribbean meal. The rich coconut sauce with tender green bananas is truly irresistible.
How to Serve Green Banana Run Down Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can brighten up the rich flavors of this dish. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. A wedge of lime on the side provides a zesty contrast that guests can squeeze over their serving to amp up the freshness.
Side Dishes
The beauty of the Green Banana Run Down Recipe is its versatility as a side. It pairs wonderfully with Caribbean staples like steamed white rice, fried dumplings, or even roti bread. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or sautéed callaloo to keep things balanced while maintaining authentic island vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try scooping the Green Banana Run Down onto toasted plantain slices or serve it inside hollowed-out breadfruit halves for a rustic, tropical presentation. You can also transform it into a vibrant bowl, topping it with chopped roasted nuts or toasted coconut flakes, adding a lovely crunch to contrast the silky sauce and tender bananas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Green Banana Run Down Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and prevent the sauce from drying out. Before eating, give it a quick stir and make sure it’s heated through evenly.
Freezing
Feel free to freeze leftovers if you want to enjoy this dish later. Place the cooled run down in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and it should keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your Green Banana Run Down gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking or separating. Adding a splash of coconut milk or water can help restore the creamy texture if it has thickened too much. Microwaving is also fine but do so in short bursts and stir between intervals.
FAQs
What is “run down” in Caribbean cooking?
Run down is a traditional Caribbean cooking method where ingredients cook slowly in coconut milk until the liquid reduces to a thick, flavorful sauce. It’s often used with fish but works wonderfully with vegetables like green bananas to create hearty dishes full of flavor.
Can I use ripe bananas instead of green bananas?
Ripe bananas are too soft and sweet for this dish. Green bananas have a firm, starchy texture similar to potatoes, which holds up well during cooking and allows them to soak up the sauce without falling apart.
Is this Green Banana Run Down Recipe spicy?
The heat level depends on whether you use a Scotch Bonnet pepper or cayenne, and how much you include. The Scotch Bonnet, often added whole, gives a milder, layered heat, while cayenne adds more evenly distributed spiciness. You can adjust or omit the pepper to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! This Green Banana Run Down Recipe is naturally plant-based, using coconut milk and vegetable ingredients. Just be sure any seasonings or add-ins are also free from animal products, and you’ll have a delicious vegan-friendly meal.
What should I serve with Green Banana Run Down Recipe?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried dumplings, or roti, but it’s also great alongside sautéed greens or fresh salads. Its rich sauce balances nicely with lighter, crisp textures and mildly flavored carbs typical of Caribbean meals.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring some heartwarming Caribbean magic to your table, you have to try the Green Banana Run Down Recipe. It’s simple to make, packed with vivid tropical flavor, and offers an unexpected way to enjoy green bananas that will quickly become a favorite. Whether for a cozy family dinner or to impress friends with something new, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that embodies the spirit and warmth of the islands.
Print
Green Banana Run Down Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Green Banana Run Down is a traditional Caribbean dish where green bananas are slowly cooked in full-fat coconut milk with aromatic spices and herbs until the sauce thickens into a rich, flavorful coating. This plant-based recipe highlights the starchy, potato-like texture of green bananas, creating a hearty and satisfying dish perfect as a side or main accompaniment.
Ingredients
Bananas
- 7 medium green bananas
Base and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions (scallions), chopped
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
Seasonings and Herbs
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Liquids and Heat
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper (whole) or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Bananas: Wash the green bananas thoroughly. Trim off both ends of each banana and make a shallow slit lengthwise through the peel without cutting into the flesh.
- Peel the Bananas: Use the slit to carefully remove the thick green peels. Discard the peels and set the peeled bananas aside.
- Boil the Bananas: Place peeled bananas in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until bananas are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook about 2 minutes until softened. Add garlic, ginger, and green onions; cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings and Coconut Milk: Stir in chopped tomato, thyme sprigs, allspice, Creole seasoning (if using), salt, and coconut milk. Add the whole Scotch Bonnet pepper for mild heat or cayenne for more consistent spiciness. Mix well.
- Simmer the Bananas: Add the boiled bananas to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and evenly coat the bananas.
- Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and bananas are fully coated, remove from heat. Serve hot as a side dish or alongside traditional Caribbean meals.
Notes
- Use green bananas only, as ripe bananas will become too soft and sweet for this savory dish.
- Adjust heat level by choosing between whole Scotch Bonnet pepper (milder) or cayenne pepper (spicier).
- Creole or Cajun seasoning is optional but adds authentic Caribbean flavor.
- Be careful when handling Scotch Bonnet peppers; avoid touching your face and wash hands thoroughly after handling.
- This dish pairs beautifully with rice, fried plantains, or as a side to fish or meat dishes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
