This year, spice up your Tet celebrations with a unique twist on a traditional treat: Less Sweet Dried Banana Ginger Jam! Forget overly sugary jams; this recipe offers a sophisticated balance of naturally sweet dried bananas and the warming zest of ginger. Perfect for spreading on bánh chưng, accompanying tea, or simply enjoying by the spoonful, this jam is a delightful departure from the norm. The intense flavour of the dried bananas is beautifully complemented by the ginger's subtle heat, creating a complex and memorable taste experience. This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels.
Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and incredible flavour of this homemade jam. This less sweet version is a healthier and more refined alternative to traditional sweet preserves. Follow our easy step-by-step guide below to learn how to craft this unique and delicious spread, perfect for sharing with family and friends this Tet. You'll be surprised by how quickly and easily you can make this delightful treat!
Tools Needed
- scissors
- knife
- non-stick pan
Ingredients
- Dried Bananas: 1 kg
- Malt: 200g
- Brown Sugar (or white sugar): 200g
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Roasted Peanuts: 300g
- White Sesame Seeds: 50g
- Ginger: 400g (or 300g if you prefer less ginger)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Choose yellow banana pieces. Remove any stems and cut them into small pieces using scissors (easier than a knife).
- Choose fresh, large ginger roots. Scrape off the outer layer using a spoon or knife. Wash and cut into thin strips.
- Wash the ginger and marinate it with salt. (Optional: Blanch the ginger in boiling water if you prefer a less spicy taste).
Step 2. Cook the Jam
- Add brown sugar (or white sugar) and salt to the marinated ginger and mix well. Let it sit for about 1 hour to dissolve the sugar.
- Heat a non-stick pan. Add the sugar water and malt, and bring to a boil.
- Add the prepared bananas to the boiling sugar mixture. Mix well and cook until the sugar water thickens and coats the bananas evenly. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3. Add Finishing Touches
- While the jam is cooling, roast the sesame seeds in a pan until lightly yellow.
- Once the jam has cooled, it will become chewier. Add the roasted sesame seeds and peanuts, and mix well.
Step 4. Store and Enjoy
- Transfer the jam to a container. It can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Choose yellow banana pieces for better color and flavor.
- Using scissors makes cutting the bananas easier.
- Don't overcook the jam; it will be chewier once it cools.
- Roast the sesame seeds evenly to avoid burning.
- Adding peanuts after cooling helps maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh bananas instead of dried bananas?
While you can, fresh bananas will yield a much runnier jam and require significantly more cooking time to achieve the desired consistency. Dried bananas provide the right sweetness and texture for this recipe.
2. How long will the jam keep?
Stored in a sterilized jar in the refrigerator, this jam should last for 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
3. Can I adjust the amount of ginger?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder ginger flavour, reduce the amount. For a stronger ginger kick, add more. Taste as you go and adjust to your liking.
This Less Sweet Dried Banana Jam with Ginger offers a delightful and unique addition to your Tet celebrations, a flavourful twist on a traditional treat. Its simple preparation makes it a perfect project for home cooks, regardless of skill level. Enjoy the sweet and spicy harmony of this homemade jam, a delicious and memorable addition to your holiday festivities.