Delicious Burger – Southern-Style Pulled Banana Skin

Think banana peels are just food waste? Think again! This Southern-style pulled banana skin burger is not only a delicious, smoky, and satisfying plant-based alternative to pulled pork, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition and a win for the environment.

Banana skins are rich in fiber, antioxidants, potassium, and vitamin B6, all of which support digestion, heart health, and energy production. They also contain tryptophan and magnesium, two nutrients known to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality by helping the body produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep cycles. So, eating banana skins isn’t just good for your body—it can also help you unwind and get a better night’s rest!

By using banana peels in this recipe, you’re also making an eco-friendly choice. Globally, millions of banana peels are discarded daily, contributing to unnecessary landfill waste. Repurposing them into a flavourful, pulled “meat” not only reduces waste but also lowers your carbon footprint by offering a sustainable alternative to traditional meat-based burgers.

So, next time you snack on a banana, save those peels and turn them into something amazing. This pulled banana skin burger is proof that eco-conscious eating can be delicious, nutritious, and even help you sleep better!

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Pulled Banana Skins

• 4 ripe banana peels (from yellow bananas with a few brown spots)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ¼ tsp chili powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup vegetable broth or water
• Salt to taste

For the Slaw

• 1 cup shredded cabbage (red and green mix)
• ½ small carrot, julienned
• 2 tbsp vegan mayo or Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp maple syrup or honey
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Burger

• 2-4 soft burger buns (brioche, whole wheat – we used No Grainer’s beautiful burger buns), toasted
• Vegan or Regular Cheese slices (Optional)
• Pickles (optional, but highly recommended)
• Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Skins

1. Wash the bananas thoroughly. Peel them and scoop out the soft inner white layer with a spoon (this helps with texture).
2. Using a fork, shred the banana peels lengthwise into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Banana Skins

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shredded banana peels and season with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and black pepper. Stir to coat.
4. Pour in the BBQ sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable broth. Stir well and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels soften and absorb the flavours. If needed, add a splash of water to prevent sticking. Season with salt to taste.

Step 3: Make the Slaw

1. In a bowl, mix the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small cup, whisk together the mayo, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the dressing with the cabbage mixture and let sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb flavours.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

1. Toast the burger buns lightly.
2. Pile a generous amount of pulled banana skin on the bottom bun. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce.
3. Add a scoop of slaw and a few pickles.
4. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately!

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Serving Suggestions

🌿 Pair with sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad.
🔥 Want some extra heat? Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños.
🌱 Make it extra Southern by serving with a side of collard greens or baked beans!

Enjoy your eco-friendly, flavour-packed Southern-Style Pulled Banana Skin Burger!

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