Lady Finger banana (Pisang mas)
(Lady Finger banana, Orito, Dedo de Dama, Guineo niño, Manices, Datil, Nino, Guineo blanco, Cambur Titiaro, Bocadillo, Banane-figue, Banane mignonne, Banane doigt de dame, Banane naine, Banana ficaire, Bananier Sucrier, Banane figue sucrée, Figue sucrée, Fig sucré, Segale nget pyaw, Banana ouro, Banana-figo, Banana dedo-de-dama, Banana anã, Surya kadali, Parika, Kudud, Fig banana, Date banana, Finger banana, Sugar banana, Sukkerbanan, Figenbanan, Bananenvijg, Bananevijg, Banana d’oro, Banana fico, Banana nana, Biu mas, Amasan, Pisang emas, Pisang mas besar, Pisang mas Kampung, Amas, Caramelo, Kamoros, Kluai khai, Klue kai, Chuoi trung)
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.
Cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, the Lady Finger banana is a popular variety in its native Southeast Asia, as well as in Australia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Despite its delicious flavor and nutritional benefits, including being a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber, it is less commonly found in global markets.
This scarcity is due to its greater sensitivity to damage during transportation and its shorter shelf life compared to the more robust Cavendish bananas. Lady Finger bananas are often enjoyed fresh, but they can also be used in a variety of culinary applications, from desserts and baked goods to smoothies.
