Written By Sania Malik
Praying Hands bananas are a unique variety where two neighboring clusters of bananas combine at their base, resembling the shape of hands clasped in prayer.
Each hand is typically composed of 6 to 7 individual fruits that have naturally fused together, resulting in a symmetrical pair of interconnected hands. [1]
History of Praying Hands
The history of Praying Hands Bananas dates back to their origins in the Philippines and Indonesia. This unique banana variety was cultivated and developed in these regions.
Praying Hands Bananas are sharing a close kinship with the Blue Java Banana.
These bananas have gained popularity among fruit enthusiasts and collectors for their unusual shape, resembling clasped hands in prayer.
Symbolism of Praying Hands
The praying hands symbolize humility, submission, and reverence towards a higher power.
Praying Hands bananas symbolize unity, gratitude, and balance. Their clasped hand shape represents interconnectedness and prayer, evoking notions of spirituality and harmony.
Nutritional values of Praying Hands Bananas
Here are the approximate nutritional values of Praying Hands bananas expressed as a percentage of the recommended daily intake: [2]
- Calories: 105 per 100 grams (5%)
- Carbohydrates: 27.0 g (9%)
- Fiber: 3.1 g (12%)
- Protein: 1.2 g (2%)
- Fat: 0.3 g (0%)
- Vitamin C: 14.1 mg (16%)
- Potassium: 358 mg (8%)
- Vitamin B6: 0.4 mg (24%)
Characteristics of Praying Hands Bananas
Praying Hands bananas are a unique variety of bananas known for their distinct shape and flavor. Here are some of their key characteristics:
1: Appearance
Praying Hands bananas are long and slender, with a distinctive “hand-like” shape that gives them their name.
2: Taste
Praying Hands bananas have a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, with hints of apple and strawberry.
3: Nutrition
Like other bananas, praying Hands bananas are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. [3]
4: Growing conditions
They require warm, humid conditions and well-draining soil. They also need plenty of sunlight and regular watering to thrive.
5: Culinary uses
Praying Hands bananas can be used in a variety of culinary applications, from baking to smoothies to simply eating as a snack.
Health benefits of Praying Hands bananas
Praying Hands bananas offer a number of health benefits due to their rich nutritional profile. Here are some of the key benefits: [4]
1: Heart health
Praying Hands bananas are a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. [5]
2: Digestive health
The fiber in Praying Hands bananas can help promote digestive health by regulating bowel movements and reducing the risk of constipation. [6]
3: Immune system support
Praying Hands bananas contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help support the immune system and protect against infections. [7]
4: Energy boost
The carbohydrates in Praying Hands bananas can provide a quick energy boost, making them a good pre-workout snack or mid-day pick-me-up. [8]
5: Mood regulation
Praying Hands bananas are a source of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps regulate mood and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being. [9]
6: Nutrient density
Praying Hands bananas are a nutrient-dense food, providing a range of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds that can help support overall health. [10]
Culinary uses of Praying Hands bananas
Praying Hands bananas have a unique flavor and texture that make them a versatile ingredient in a variety of culinary applications.
Here are some of the ways they can be used in cooking and baking:
1: Snacking
Praying Hands bananas can be enjoyed as a simple snack, either on their own or paired with other fruits and nuts.
2: Smoothies
Their creamy texture and sweet flavor make them a great addition to smoothies and shakes.
3: Baking
Praying Hands bananas can be used in a variety of baked goods, such as banana bread, muffins, and cakes.
4: Grilling
Grilled Praying Hands bananas make a delicious and healthy dessert. Simply slice them lengthwise and grill for a few minutes on each side until slightly charred.
5: Salads
Praying Hands bananas can be sliced and added to fruit salads or green salads for a sweet and tangy flavor.
6: Ice cream
Their sweet flavor makes them a great addition to homemade ice cream, either blended into the base or chopped up and added as a topping.
Recipes
Here are a few recipes that incorporate Praying Hands bananas:
- Praying Hands Banana Bread
- Grilled Praying Hands Bananas
Praying hands are a powerful symbol of devotion, humility, and respect that have been used across cultures and religions for centuries. They represent a universal desire to connect with a higher power and to express gratitude and supplication. Whether used in art, literature, or prayer, the image of praying hands continues to inspire and comfort people around the world.
FAQs
What are the benefits of praying hands bananas?
Praying Hands bananas are high in potassium, fiber and carbohydrates. They are a good source of B-complex vitamins, vitamins A and C, and magnesium. The unique bananas also contain phosphorus, iron, zinc, calcium and copper.
What do praying hands bananas taste like?
Praying Hands bananas have a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, with hints of apple and strawberry.
How do you eat praying hands bananas?
Praying Hands bananas are eaten both raw and cooked. They are eaten raw when the bananas are over-ripe and very soft.
Where did the praying hands banana come from?
The Praying Hands Banana originated in Indonesia and can be found in the Southern Pacific.