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Best Southeast Asian Banana Types
Lady Finger banana is a small, sweet variety of banana distinguished from others by its size, taste, and texture. It is significantly smaller and thinner than the more commonly known Cavendish banana, typically measuring about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length.
What sets the Lady Finger banana apart is its exceptionally sweet flavor and creamy texture, making it a favorite for fresh eating. Its sweetness is often compared to that of honey, and it has a delicate, almost floral flavor profile. The skin of the Lady Finger banana is thin and the flesh is less dense compared to larger banana varieties, contributing to its unique texture.
Pisang raja (lat. Musa paradisiaca var. Raja) is a highly prized variety of banana in Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia.
The name pisang raja literally translates to "king of bananas" in Indonesian, reflecting its esteemed status among banana varieties due to its superior taste and texture. Pisang raja bananas are known for their delightful sweetness, creamy texture, and a slight hint of citrus.
The Latundan banana (lat. Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana) is a triploid hybrid of the banana cultivar, originating in the Philippines, but also popular in other parts of Southeast Asia and India.
Latundan bananas are smaller than the more widely known Cavendish bananas, and have a thinner peel. They typically range in length from 4 to 5 inches (about 10 to 12.5 cm). One of the defining characteristics of the Latundan banana is its texture and flavor.
Blue Java banana, often called the "Ice cream banana", is a unique variety of banana with a distinctive blue-tinged peel when unripe, which turns a pale yellow when ripe.
Its name comes from its creamy texture and vanilla-like flavor, reminiscent of ice cream. This variety belongs to the group Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana (ABB Group). Originating from Southeast Asia and widely grown in the Pacific region, the Blue Java banana has gained popularity in other tropical and subtropical areas, including Hawaii, Fiji, the Philippines, and parts of Central America.
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