Banana Dreams

Ingredients

In this Iranian adaptation of Sonhos de banana, we incorporate traditional Iranian spices like cardamom and saffron to infuse the dough with a unique flavor profile. Additionally, we enhance the banana filling by adding a hint of rose water, which adds a delicate floral note to the dish. These adaptations give the Banana Dreams a distinct Persian twist while still maintaining the essence of the original Brazilian recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Sonhos de banana, so you can check it out.

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 teaspoon rose water 1 teaspoon rose water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm water A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm water
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 12g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rose water, ground cardamom, and soaked saffron. Mix well and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add the warm milk while stirring until a sticky dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Flatten each portion and spoon a teaspoon of the banana filling into the center. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F). Fry the filled dough balls in batches until golden brown, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
7. 7.
   Remove the fried Banana Dreams from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
8. 8.
   Dust the warm Banana Dreams with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bananas — Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
• Saffron — Soak the saffron threads in warm water to release their vibrant color and aroma.
• Yeast — Ensure the yeast is fresh and active for proper dough rising.
• Vegetable oil — Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point for frying, such as canola or sunflower oil.
• Powdered sugar — Dust the Banana Dreams with powdered sugar while they are still warm for a beautiful presentation.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of indulgence, serve the Banana Dreams with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add your own twist to the recipe.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the filled dough balls in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the warm Banana Dreams as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack. They are best enjoyed fresh and can be served on their own or accompanied by a cup of Persian tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Banana Dreams on a platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or edible rose petals for an elegant touch.