Wondering about banana ketchup? We’re answering your top questions about this flavorful condiment, including what it tastes like, how to use it and even how to make it.
Let’s get started…
What Does Banana Ketchup Taste Like?
Banana ketchup, also known as banana sauce, comes from the Philippines and has essentially no banana flavor even though this fruit is its primary ingredient. Instead, it tastes quite like tomato ketchup.
This is because bottled banana ketchup has similar spices and ingredients, including sugar and vinegar, though chili spice and sometimes ginger are also used, making it sweet, acidic and mildly hot. Homemade sauces, on the other hand, may retain more banana flavor.
Also Read: Where are Bananas Grown?
Banana Ketchup Texture
The texture is as pretty much as close to tomato ketchup as the taste. It’s thick but not gloopy, pourable on your home fries for breakfast.
Unlike tomato ketchup, banana ketchup has a starchiness that you might expect from the bananas. A homemade sauce is more likely to feature this texture than a bottled sauce, which can employ certain additives and preservatives that will change the consistency.
Related Article: What Does Asparagus Taste Like?
What Is Banana Ketchup Used For?
Anywhere ketchup goes is where banana ketchup can go. Store-bought banana ketchup often contains dyes to make it look more like the tomato-based condiment, but the yellow kind can just as easily top your veggie burgers and fries.
As for recipes, this sauce can be added to stir-fries, sweet and sour tofu and barbecue sauce. Treat it like a savory, tangy element in your cooking for best results.
You Might Also Like: What Does Avocado Oil Taste Like?
Does Banana Ketchup Expire?
How long banana ketchup lasts is determined by several factors. If it’s something you bought and haven’t opened yet but it’s nearing its printed expiration date, it can still be good many months past this date (if it remains unopened).
Homemade banana ketchup is a different story. The vinegar will make it stay longer (kept in the fridge), but it may not last beyond a few weeks.
Read Also: What Does Bad Watermelon Taste Like?
Banana Ketchup Serving Tips
Making banana ketchup is so easy that you’ll probably want to whip some up now that we’ve piqued your curiosity. Then you can buy a premade one and compare (we’ll bet yours wins).
In this video, the chef prepares a pretty traditional banana ketchup with whole spices. If you don’t have these, you can use ground spices in reduced quantities to taste.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ripe bananas
- Yellow onion
- Apple cider vinegar
- Palm or brown sugar
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
- Nutmeg
Recommended Article: What Does Baking Soda Taste Like?
This is another version that uses tomatoes to come closer to a tomato-based ketchup in taste and color. Try it if you’re looking for more of a cross between the two.
Here are the ingredients:
- Tomatoes
- Bananas
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Apple cider vinegar
- Sugar
Wrap Up
Most banana ketchups are not very different from tomato ketchup, just a bit spicier and sweeter. Homemade sauces are usually the best, especially if you enjoy a stronger banana flavor. When it’s ready, you can try it on your veggie burger—we think beet or black bean burgers would be delicious.
READ ALSO: If you’re looking for sealed containers for your sweeteners, take a look at our list of the best container for brown sugar.
Further Reading: What Does Balsamic Vinegar Taste Like?
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
