Nava's Zen: Banana Desserts: Pancakes, Fritters, Flambé & Coconut

Ready to indulge in effortless dessert yumminess? While some go for elaborate creations, Ms. Nava’s sweet treats are all about creativity and simplicity. Why complicate things when you can whip up delightful desserts with ease (CHRYSANTHEMUM GOJI BERRY JELLY).

"It’s About Time” to embrace the straightforward yet scrumptious joys of dessert-making. And speaking of simplicity, bananas are a staple in my kitchen. Shhh, don’t tell anyone, but bananas are my go-to for a quick energy boost in the morning. When those bananas start to show signs of aging, I transform them into irresistible desserts. And yes, pancakes are not just for breakfast in my world (EASIEST BANANA CHOCOLATE CAKE).

I have a soft spot for Malaysian ingredients when it comes to whipping up desserts, and palm sugar, while not the Zen-perfect choice, is a great alternative to white sugar. Forget about pricey maple syrups or honey - tropical coconut is a game-changer in banana desserts. I adore coconut, don’t you?

The last banana dessert was inspired by some salted caramel ice cream I had in the freezer and a few brownie pieces gifted by a friend. Add some bananas, and you’ve got a treat that’s too good to miss. Curious? Keep reading to discover the sweet surprise waiting at the end.

Banana Pancake Palm Sugar Coconut Bliss
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas (mashed)
1 banana (sliced, for topping)
1 cup self-raising flour (or all-purpose flour with a pinch of baking powder)
Milk (as needed)
1 egg
Butter (as needed)

To Pair With
Palm sugar/Gula Melaka syrup (simmer palm sugar with water)
Fresh grated coconut

Method
Mix flour and egg into the mashed bananas, whisking gently.
Gradually add milk until the batter reaches pancake consistency.
Heat a pan with butter, pour in batter to form pancakes, and cook until golden brown on both sides.

Remove pancakes and keep aside.
Top each pancake with palm sugar syrup and grated coconut.

Grilled Banana Fritters with Coconut (Eggless)

Ingredients
2 ripe bananas
3/4 cup cake flour
Fresh grated coconut (as needed)
Sugar (as needed)
A little oil

Method
Mash the bananas and mix with cake flour until smooth.
Heat a portable grill and add a little oil.
Scoop spoonfuls of the batter onto the grill and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Mix sugar with grated coconut.

Roll the fritters in the coconut-sugar mixture.

Coconut & Palm Sugar Banana Flambé (Non-Alcoholic)

Ingredients

2 semi-ripe bananas

2 tbsp butter (to taste)

Palm sugar (to taste)

Crushed roasted peanuts

Fresh grated coconut

Method
Heat the butter in a pan.
Add palm sugar and caramelize the mixture.
Add bananas and cook over high heat for 2-3 minutes, until caramelized.

Remove and place on a serving tray.
Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and grated coconut.