Cookbook:Akarubi (Rwandan Grilled Banana)

Akarubi (Rwandan Grilled Banana)
Category	African recipes
Difficulty

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Akarubi is a popular Rwandan dessert made with grilled bananas. This simple yet delicious dish is a favorite among Rwandans and visitors alike. Grilled bananas are caramelized to perfection, resulting in a sweet and smoky flavor that is irresistible.

Ingredients

• Ripe bananas, peeled
• Butter or vegetable oil, for grilling
• Cinnamon (optional, for sprinkling)
• Honey, for drizzling (optional)

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs

Procedure

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Place the peeled bananas directly on the grill grates or grill pan.
3. Grill the bananas for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they are lightly charred and softened.
4. Remove the grilled bananas from the heat and transfer them to a serving plate.
5. Optionally, sprinkle the grilled bananas with cinnamon for added flavor.
6. Serve hot as a dessert or snack. If desired, drizzle the grilled bananas with honey or maple syrup for additional sweetness.

Notes, tips, and variations

• Use ripe bananas for the best results. They should be yellow with some brown spots on the skin, indicating they are sweet and flavorful.
• You can brush the bananas with melted butter or vegetable oil before grilling to prevent sticking and enhance the caramelization.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or lime juice over the grilled bananas for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• Serve the akarubi with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
• Garnish the grilled bananas with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added texture and presentation.
• Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, dietary fiber, and natural sugars.