9 Bananas That Are Just Bananas and 7 You Didn’t Know You Needed

Not all bananas are created equal. Some are the standard yellow kind we toss in our lunch bags or blend into smoothies without much thought. Others? They’re wildly underrated, sweet in unexpected ways, or totally transform how you think about this humble fruit. Let’s break down 9 bananas that are just… well, bananas—and 7 unique varieties you didn’t even know you needed in your life.

1. Cavendish Banana

Cavendish bananas, the staple of supermarkets, are the quintessential yellow fruit we all recognize. Often found in lunch bags, these bananas are reliable yet a bit bland compared to their more exotic relatives. In their prime, they’re sweet and soft, but when overripe, they become the key ingredient to moist banana bread. Ideal for smoothies due to their creamy texture, the Cavendish is the backbone of banana consumption worldwide. Yet, if you’ve only tasted this variety, you’re missing out on a world of banana flavors that go beyond the ordinary.

2. Green Unripe Banana

Before they turn yellow, bananas are starchy and dry, making them less appealing for direct consumption. However, in various cuisines, green bananas are favored for boiling or frying, offering a unique taste experience. Their firm texture is perfect for adding an unexpected twist to savory dishes. While they lack sweetness, they shine when paired with spices and seasonings. This versatility makes them a hidden gem in culinary circles, far removed from their ripe counterparts. Despite their common appearance, green bananas are anything but ordinary.

3. Bruised Overripe Banana

Overripe bananas, speckled with brown spots, might seem past their prime, but they hold a secret treasure of sweetness. While their mushy texture might turn some away as a snack, they are the star of banana bread recipes. Their intensified sugar level makes them nature’s candy, perfect for desserts and smoothies. When bananas reach this stage, their flavor profile deepens, offering a richer taste experience. Despite their less appealing appearance, they are often loved for their baking potential and sweet surprise within.

4. Half-Ripe Banana

Caught in a state of indecision, half-ripe bananas are neither fully green nor entirely yellow. This in-between phase offers a chalky texture that lacks the sweetness of ripeness. However, they can surprise in the right culinary contexts where a firmer bite is desired. While not the first choice for snacking, these bananas contribute a subtle flavor when cooked or baked. Their unique position in the ripening process makes them an intriguing, albeit uncommon, ingredient in creative kitchens.

5. Bananas in School Lunch Packs

Remember those bananas packed in school lunches? Always a bit too firm or too soft, these bananas were the mystery fruit of the lunchbox world. Despite their unpredictability, they were a constant companion for many school children. They taught us the value of patience—waiting for the perfect ripeness. Though not always ideal in texture, they hold a nostalgic place in many hearts. Their unpredictable nature made them a surprise element, sometimes delighting, sometimes disappointing, but always present.

6. Gas-Ripened Bananas

In the world of bananas, gas-ripened ones sit in stark contrast to their naturally ripened siblings. Often found in grocery stores, these bananas are forced to ripen using ethylene gas, which speeds up the process. While they boast a vibrant yellow color, their flavor might not fully develop, missing that sun-kissed sweetness. As convenient as they are, they lack the depth of taste that comes with natural ripening. This method ensures availability, but taste aficionados might seek alternatives for a fuller banana experience.

7. Store-Brand Banana Chips

Banana chips from store brands often promise a crunchy snack, but they sometimes fall short. Frequently coated in sugar or oil, they veer off from being a healthy treat. While they satisfy a craving for a crunchy texture, their nutritional value can be questioned. These chips offer a convenient and portable snack option, but those expecting the true essence of banana might be disappointed. Despite their shortcomings, they remain a popular choice for quick snacking, providing a different take on the traditional banana.

8. Bananas with Split Peels

When bananas reach the stage where their peels split open, they’ve undeniably seen better days. These bananas, collapsing at a touch, are far from ideal for direct eating. Yet, they find redemption in smoothies where texture matters less. Their fully developed sugars make them perfect for adding natural sweetness to blended drinks. While they may not win any beauty contests, their utility in the kitchen is undeniable. They’re a testament to not judging a banana by its cover, proving valuable despite appearances.

9. Banana-Flavored Candy

Banana-flavored candy evokes a love-it-or-hate-it reaction with its synthetic taste. Inspired by the extinct Gros Michel variety, it brings nostalgia and a unique, artificial banana experience. Often found in candy mixes, they offer a distinct yellow hue and sugary punch. While not a real fruit, their exaggerated sweetness and distinctive flavor carve out a niche in the candy world. For those who relish this quirky taste, they are a delightful treat, adding a playful element to any candy selection.

10. Apple Banana (a.k.a. Latundan or Manzano)

Apple bananas, known as Latundan or Manzano, bring a delightful twist to the banana family with their unique taste. These short and plump bananas deliver a flavor that hints of apple or strawberry, making them a dessert-level treat. Creamy and tangy, they offer a refreshing change from the usual banana experience. Their small size and intense flavor make them perfect for a quick snack or a sweet addition to fruit salads. If you’re seeking a banana with a twist, the apple banana is a must-try.

11. Red Banana

Red bananas, with their striking reddish-purple skin, invite curiosity with their appearance. Beneath the colorful exterior lies soft flesh with a richer, almost raspberry-like taste. Ideal in parfaits or paired with yogurt, they add a splash of color and flavor to any dish. Their unique taste profile offers a refreshing departure from the ordinary banana. The red banana is more than a visual treat; it’s a flavorful experience waiting to be discovered. Perfect for those looking to expand their banana horizons.

12. Burro Banana

With a chunky and square shape, the Burro banana stands out among its peers. Known for its lemony notes and dense texture, it brings a unique element to dishes. Whether grilled or eaten fresh, the Burro adds an unexpected twist to meals. Its adaptability in various culinary contexts showcases its versatility. As a less common variety, it presents an opportunity for culinary exploration. For those adventurous with their food choices, the Burro banana offers a fresh perspective on what a banana can be.

13. Blue Java Banana (a.k.a. Ice Cream Banana)

The Blue Java banana, often called the Ice Cream banana, surprises with its creamy, vanilla ice cream-like taste. Its pale blue skin when unripe transforms into a pale white flesh when ready to eat. This variety offers an indulgent experience, perfect for those who enjoy dessert-like flavors without guilt. Not only does it captivate with its taste, but its striking appearance adds to its allure. The Blue Java is a delightful addition to the banana lineup, especially for those with a sweet tooth.

14. Plantain

Plantains, while not your typical dessert banana, transform into a culinary delight when fried. Their firm texture and mild sweetness make them a staple in savory and sweet dishes globally. Often used as a side dish or snack, they bring a rich, satisfying flavor to meals. In many cultures, plantains are a beloved part of the diet, showcasing their versatility. Whether sliced and fried or used in stews, they offer a unique twist on the banana experience, proving indispensable in diverse cuisines.

15. Pisang Raja (King Banana)

Pisang Raja, the King banana, reigns supreme in Southeast Asian markets with its vibrant orange flesh and rich, honeyed flavor. A favorite for banana fritters or eaten straight, it delivers a taste journey like no other. Its sweet and aromatic qualities set it apart from more common varieties. For those seeking a banana with royal stature, Pisang Raja is an alluring choice. Its popularity in traditional dishes highlights its significance in local culinary traditions, making it a cherished banana variety.

16. Baby Bananas (a.k.a. Niño or Lady Finger)

Tiny but mighty, baby bananas, also known as Niño or Lady Finger bananas, pack a punch with their intense sweetness and floral aroma. Their small size makes them ideal for snacking, especially for children or on charcuterie boards. Despite their diminutive stature, they deliver a full banana flavor that satisfies any craving. Perfect for those who enjoy a sweet, convenient treat, these bananas offer a delightful contrast to their larger counterparts. A must-have for banana enthusiasts looking for variety.