Bananas

Go bananas and enjoy one of the oldest known fruits.

Thought to be native to South-East Asia, the banana is one of the oldest known fruits. There are hundreds of types of bananas, but in Australia the most common varieties are the cavendish and the lady finger.

High in natural fruit sugars, vitamins B6 and C, and potassium, this fat-free fruit is a great high-energy snack.

Buying

Bananas are available from supermarkets all year round, but are at their best in summer and autumn. Look for firm fruit with unblemished skin.

Storing

Store at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Keep bananas away from avocados, apples and other fruits that release ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening.

Cooking

Bananas are usually eaten raw, but they can also be fried and served with ice-cream, or mashed and added to cakes. Great with cream, maple syrup, honey, cinnamon, chocolate and yoghurt.