Kashmiri Spiced Banana Bread

Ingredients

In this Kashmiri adaptation of banana bread, we incorporate traditional Kashmiri spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron to infuse the bread with the flavors of the region. Additionally, we add crushed almonds for a crunchy texture and to enhance the nuttiness of the bread. This version is a fusion of American comfort food and Kashmiri culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Banana Bread, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of saffron strands, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm milk A pinch of saffron strands, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm milk
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (60g) crushed almonds 1/2 cup (60g) crushed almonds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 39g, 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, mashed bananas, saffron-infused milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. 5.
   Fold in the crushed almonds.
6. 6.
   Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. 7.
   Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to crush the almonds into small pieces to add a pleasant crunch to the bread.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, toast the crushed almonds before adding them to the batter.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar to your taste.
• Serve the banana bread warm with a dollop of clotted cream or a drizzle of honey for an indulgent treat.
• This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To enhance the Kashmiri flavors, sprinkle a pinch of ground cardamom and saffron strands on top of the bread before baking.

Serving advice

Slice the Kashmiri Spiced Banana Bread into thick slices and serve it as a delightful breakfast or tea-time treat. It can be enjoyed on its own or spread with butter or cream cheese.

Presentation advice

Present the Kashmiri Spiced Banana Bread on a wooden cutting board or a decorative plate. Dust the top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and garnish with a few saffron strands for an elegant touch.