Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas
If you’re craving a sweet, satisfying snack that’s easy to make and relatively guilt-free, Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas are an excellent choice! These bananas are fried in just a little oil, coated with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and perfectly portioned to fit into the Portion Fix program—a popular portion-control eating system. Whether you’re looking for a tasty dessert or a healthier alternative to traditional fried treats, these cinnamon bananas are sure to hit the spot.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps of making Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas, with helpful tips along the way. This recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an excellent way to incorporate a little sweetness into your healthy eating plan. Let’s get started!
What are Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas?
Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas are a simple, light, and healthy version of fried bananas, ideal for those following the Portion Fix program. The idea is to make a delicious snack or dessert using minimal ingredients while still staying within your portion control goals. The bananas are lightly fried to a golden brown, then sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar, making for a satisfying sweet treat without going overboard on calories or sugar.
Key Ingredients:
- Bananas: The base of the recipe, providing natural sweetness and fiber.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice that gives the dish its signature flavor.
- Sugar or Honey: For sweetness and balance to the cinnamon.
- Healthy Oil: A small amount of oil for frying, which helps create a crispy exterior without adding excessive fat.
Ingredients List
Gather the following ingredients to make your Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas:
- 2 medium bananas (preferably ripe, but not overly soft)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (or brown sugar) or honey
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or another light, healthy oil)
- Pinch of salt (optional, to enhance the sweetness)
- A sprinkle of water (optional, to lightly coat the bananas for a less oily finish)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas
1. Prepare the Bananas
To start, prepare the bananas by peeling them and cutting them into bite-sized slices. Depending on your preference, you can slice them into rounds or diagonally for a more unique shape. The goal is to make the pieces uniform, so they cook evenly.
- Tip: If you prefer thicker slices for a more substantial bite, feel free to cut the bananas into thicker pieces. However, thinner slices tend to fry up crispier, which can be a fun contrast to the softness of the banana.
2. Mix the Cinnamon and Sugar or Honey
In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and coconut sugar (or brown sugar) or honey. Stir until the cinnamon is evenly distributed through the sugar or honey. This mixture will be used to coat the fried bananas and give them that sweet, spiced flavor.
- Tip: You can adjust the cinnamon-sugar ratio to your liking. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, add more cinnamon. If you want a sweeter result, increase the sugar or honey slightly.
3. Heat the Oil
Next, heat the coconut oil (or your preferred oil) in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. You’ll want the oil to be hot but not smoking, as this will help fry the bananas quickly and evenly without soaking them in excess oil.
- Tip: If you prefer to reduce the amount of oil used, you can lightly mist the bananas with cooking spray before placing them in the pan. This will allow for a slightly lighter result while still achieving the crispy texture.
4. Fry the Bananas
Once the oil is heated, place the banana slices into the pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the bananas to steam instead of fry. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Tip: Be gentle when flipping the bananas to avoid breaking them. A silicone spatula or tongs work best for flipping the delicate banana slices.
5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Once the bananas are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. While the bananas are still warm, immediately sprinkle them with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring that all sides are coated evenly.
- Tip: For a little extra flavor, you can add a pinch of salt to the cinnamon-sugar mixture to enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas are now ready to enjoy! Serve them immediately while they’re warm and crispy. These bananas are delicious on their own or can be paired with a small scoop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Serving Idea: Serve the bananas with a dollop of low-fat whipped cream or a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a fun, dessert-worthy treat without breaking your portion control goals.
Tips for Making the Best Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- Use Firm Bananas: Bananas that are ripe but still firm are ideal for this recipe. Overripe bananas can become mushy when fried and may not hold their shape as well.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the bananas in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause the bananas to steam rather than fry, resulting in a soggy texture.
- Adjust the Sugar: If you’re following a stricter portion control program, you can reduce the amount of sugar used or swap it with a healthier alternative, such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Experiment with Toppings: While these bananas are perfect as they are, don’t hesitate to experiment with other toppings like cinnamon chips, chopped almonds, or even a little drizzle of dark chocolate for added flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (about 4-5 slices of Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas are perfect for a light dessert or snack, but they can also be paired with other dishes to create a balanced meal. Here are a few serving ideas:
- With Greek Yogurt: Serve the fried bananas with a side of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast to the crispy texture.
- As a Breakfast Treat: Pair the bananas with scrambled eggs or oatmeal for a sweet and savory breakfast combo.
- With a Salad: For a fun twist, serve the bananas as part of a salad with fresh greens, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
Q&A Section
Q: Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits such as apple slices, pears, or even plantains. Just ensure the fruit you choose can hold up during the frying process.
Q: Can I bake the bananas instead of frying them?
Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the banana slices at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will give you a crisp exterior with less oil.
Q: Can I make these bananas ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can make the bananas ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven or a toaster oven to keep them crispy.
Q: What if I want to make a larger batch?
Simply scale up the ingredients as needed. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when frying, and fry the bananas in batches for the best texture.
Q: Can I use a non-stick spray for frying?
Yes, using a non-stick spray can reduce the amount of oil used, but keep in mind that a small amount of oil helps achieve the crispy texture that makes this dish so delicious.
Conclusion
Portion Fix Fried Cinnamon Bananas are a delightful, sweet treat that can satisfy your dessert cravings without derailing your healthy eating goals. With simple ingredients, a quick preparation process, and a delicious result, these cinnamon-sugar coated bananas are perfect for a snack or dessert. They’re light, easy to make, and can be customized to suit your taste.
Try this recipe next time you’re in the mood for something sweet but still within your portion control plan. These bananas will not disappoint!