Bananas are one of the most widely consumed fruits in India, known for their sweet taste, versatility, and nutritional benefits. India is home to a variety of banana types, each with distinct characteristics, origins, and growing regions. In this article, we explore some of the most notable banana varieties in India, including their origins, history, where they are found, availability, and unique properties.
Contents
1. Robusta
- Origin: South India
- History: Widely cultivated due to its high yield and commercial viability.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its large size, thick skin, and sweet flavor. It is commonly used for direct consumption and in various culinary applications.
2. Dwarf Cavendish
- Origin: Canary Islands, widely cultivated in India
- History: Introduced to India for its commercial value and high yield.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its short stature, making it resistant to wind damage. It has a sweet taste and creamy texture.
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3. Rasthali (Silk Banana)
- Origin: India
- History: An ancient variety cherished for its unique flavor and texture.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its thin skin and sweet, aromatic flavor. It has a creamy texture and is often used in desserts.
4. Poovan (Mysore Banana)
- Origin: India
- History: Named after the city of Mysore, where it has been cultivated for centuries.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its distinct flavor and small to medium size. It is commonly used in traditional Indian dishes and snacks.
5. Nendran (Plantain)
- Origin: Kerala, India
- History: A traditional variety from Kerala, often used in local cuisine.
- Found in: Kerala and Tamil Nadu
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its large size and firm texture. It is often used in cooking, making chips, and as a staple food in Kerala.
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6. Red Banana
- Origin: India
- History: Valued for its unique color and nutritional benefits.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu and Kerala
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its reddish-purple skin and sweet flavor. It is rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C.
7. Hill Banana (Sirumalai)
- Origin: Tamil Nadu, India
- History: Grown in the hilly regions of Tamil Nadu for its unique taste.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its small size and sweet, tangy flavor. It is often used in traditional dishes and desserts.
8. Monthan
- Origin: India
- History: A popular variety for cooking and making plantain chips.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its starchy texture and suitability for cooking. It is often used in savory dishes and as a staple food.
9. Karpuravalli (Karpooravalli)
- Origin: India
- History: A local variety known for its medicinal properties and unique flavor.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu and Kerala
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its large size and sweet, fragrant flavor. It is often used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.
10. Pachanadan
- Origin: India
- History: Cultivated for its distinct taste and versatility in culinary uses.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu and Kerala
- Availability: Throughout the year
- Unique Property: Known for its sweet taste and thin skin. It is often used in traditional dishes and snacks.
Nutrition Chart of Banana
Bananas are not just delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a general nutritional profile of bananas per 100 grams:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 89 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22.8 g |
| Sugars | 12.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g |
| Protein | 1.1 g |
| Fat | 0.3 g |
| Vitamin A | 3 µg |
| Vitamin C | 8.7 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin K | 0.5 µg |
| Potassium | 358 mg |
| Magnesium | 27 mg |
| Phosphorus | 22 mg |
| Folate | 20 µg |
| Calcium | 5 mg |
| Iron | 0.3 mg |
| Zinc | 0.2 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.1 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.7 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
