GRASS FED BANANA BREAD
My absolute “GO TO” for a simple easy treat. BENEFITS ARE AS FOLLOWS>>>>>
- Natural Sweetness from Bananas & Maple Syrup:
- Less Refined Sugar: Unlike many traditional recipes that use significant amounts of refined white sugar, this recipe relies heavily on the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and pure maple syrup. This can help reduce your intake of processed sugars.
- Nutrient-Dense Sweeteners: Maple syrup, while still a sugar, contains some minerals (like manganese and zinc) and antioxidants that white sugar lacks. Bananas provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber alongside their sweetness.
- Healthy Fats from Grass-Fed Butter:
- Improved Fatty Acid Profile: Grass-fed butter, compared to conventional butter, tends to have a more favorable fatty acid profile, including higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), and fat-soluble vitamins (like K2 and A). These are beneficial for heart health, metabolism, and bone health.
- Rich Flavour: Grass-fed butter contributes a rich, creamy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the banana bread.
- Nutrient Boost from Farm Eggs:
- Higher Nutrient Content: Eggs from pasture-raised or “farm” hens (especially if they forage) can have higher levels of Omega-3s, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E compared to conventionally raised eggs, offering a more nutrient-dense protein source.
- Complete Protein: Eggs provide all nine essential amino acids, crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions.
- Source of Vitamins and Minerals:
- Potassium: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, vital for blood pressure regulation, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
- B Vitamins: Eggs, flour, and to some extent, bananas, contribute various B vitamins which are essential for energy metabolism.
- Minerals: Depending on the fortification of the flour and the natural content of the ingredients (like manganese from maple syrup, magnesium from bananas), the bread will provide a range of essential minerals.
- Fibre Content:
- Digestive Health: Bananas and the flour contribute dietary fiber, which is important for healthy digestion, preventing constipation, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Energy Source:
- The combination of carbohydrates (from flour, bananas, maple syrup) and fats provides a sustained energy release, making it a nice snack option.
- Satiety and Convenience:
- The protein from eggs, healthy fats, and fiber contribute to a feeling of fullness, which can help prevent overeating or snacking on less healthy alternatives.
- Banana bread is a convenient and portable snack or breakfast option for busy individuals.
- Appeals to Specific Dietary Preferences:
- By using maple syrup and whole ingredients, it aligns with preferences for less processed foods.
- It uses “farm eggs” which appeals to those looking for ethically sourced or nutritionally superior eggs.
- Himalayan pink salt provides minerals and is often preferred by those avoiding standard table salt for various reasons.
Recipe
1 loaf (about 10-12 slices) Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 50-60 minutes
Ingredients:
100g grass-fed butter, melted and cooled slightly
5 TBSP maple syrup (pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup)
2 large farm eggs, at room temperature, lightly beaten
3 medium ripe to overripe bananas, mashed well (about 1 cup mashed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended)
190g (1 1/2 cups) self-raising flour
1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
Macro breakdown entire loaf
Total Calories:
Total Fat:
Total Carbohydrates:
Total Protein: