Grilled Bananas with Chocolate and Nuts

Grilled bananas offer a delightful dessert or snack option, blending the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich taste of chocolate and the crunch of nuts. This simple yet exquisite dish uses a few ingredients but creates an explosion of flavors. By grilling the bananas in their skins, they retain their shape and take on a smoky essence. Chocolate shards melt into the warm fruit, while a sprinkle of nuts adds a pleasing texture. Drizzled with caramel syrup, these bananas are both indulgent and satisfying. Ideal for a quick dessert or an unexpected treat on a barbecue night, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something special. It's an effortless way to impress guests or simply enjoy a sweet moment for yourself.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 bananas
50 g chocolate, chopped
Chopped nuts
Caramel syrup

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes
Preparation: 15 minutes
Grilling: 5 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by keeping the bananas in a bunch, as this helps them stay upright on the grill. Gently slice the bananas along the top, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through.
Insert small pieces of chocolate into the cut. Ensure they are well distributed to melt evenly during grilling.
Preheat your grill to a temperature of 150-160°C (approximately 300-320°F) for optimal results.
Place the stuffed bananas on the grill. Keep them close together to help them maintain their form.
Grill the bananas for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally if needed. They are ready when their skins turn black, indicating they've softened inside.
Remove the bananas from the grill once cooked, being careful not to lose any filling.
Allow them to cool slightly before handling, as the filling will be very hot.
Place the grilled bananas on a serving dish. If you plan to serve individual portions, slice the bananas in half.
Sprinkle a generous handful of chopped nuts over the top of the grilled bananas, adding a delightful crunch.
Drizzle with caramel syrup, allowing it to flow over the bananas for a deliciously sticky finish.
To enhance the presentation, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
For an extra touch, garnish with mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Serve immediately while the bananas are warm and the chocolate is gooey.
Delight in the combination of textures and flavors, from smooth bananas to rich chocolate and crunchy nuts.
**Tip**: Always keep a close eye on the grill to prevent burning.
**Substitution**: Use dark or milk chocolate based on preference.
**Technique**: Insert a skewer through the bananas if you'd like extra stability on the grill.

Tips

Use ripe but firm bananas for best results.
Experiment with different types of nuts, like pecans or almonds.
For a healthier option, substitute caramel syrup with agave syrup.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 3g
Fats: 9g
Carbs: 40g

Variations

Nut-Free: Omit the nuts or replace with toasted coconut flakes for crunch.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate and syrup.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate for a spiced variation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a shot of espresso for a rich end to a meal.
Pair with a glass of dessert wine to complement the sweetness.
Add a side of fresh berries for a contrasting fresh flavor.

Best Places

For those wanting to experience similar delights, consider visiting these exceptional venues:

The Banana Grill - Known for their creative takes on grilled fruits, including banana desserts. Location: 123 Fruit Ave, Miami, USA.
Sweet Flame - Offers a variety of grilled sweets including delectable banana dishes. Location: 45 Sizzle St, Melbourne, Australia.
Charred Patisserie - Famous for their fusion desserts with an emphasis on grilled ingredients. Location: 67 Bake Lane, Paris, France.
Tropical Treats Cafe - A delightful spot for tropical-inspired snacks and desserts. Location: 89 Palm Road, Honolulu, Hawaii.
Caramelo Grille - Celebrates caramel in most dishes, with grilled bananas being a highlight. Location: 102 Sugar Blvd, Barcelona, Spain.
Gourmet BBQ - Combines BBQ techniques with dessert creations. Location: 76 Grill St, Cape Town, South Africa.
Fire and Sweet - Focuses on unusual sweet grilling options. Location: 31 Sweet St, Tokyo, Japan.
Dessert Flame - Offers a full menu of grilled desserts that include innovative banana recipes. Location: 99 Dessert Blvd, London, UK.
Fruity Blaze - Known for their mastery in fruit-based grilled dishes. Location: 10 Orchard Avenue, Auckland, New Zealand.
The Grilled Gourmet - Specializes in fine dining experiences using grilled ingredients. Location: 57 Gourmet Road, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.