Green Banana Run Down is a traditional Caribbean dish made with unripe green bananas simmered in creamy, seasoned coconut milk. Rich in flavor and deeply comforting, this dish is a staple in Jamaican cuisine and is often enjoyed as a side dish or part of a hearty breakfast or lunch. The combination of coconut milk, fresh herbs, aromatics, and spices creates a savory sauce that perfectly coats the tender green bananas.
This recipe highlights simple ingredients and traditional cooking methods, making it easy to prepare while delivering bold, authentic flavors.
What Is Green Banana Run Down?
“Run Down” refers to a Caribbean cooking technique where ingredients are cooked slowly in coconut milk until the liquid reduces and thickens into a rich sauce. While run down dishes are sometimes prepared with fish, this version uses green bananas as the main ingredient, making it a satisfying plant-based option.
Green bananas are starchier than ripe bananas and have a texture similar to potatoes when cooked, which makes them ideal for savory dishes.
Ingredients
- 7 medium green bananas
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions (scallions), chopped
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper (whole) or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Green Bananas
Wash the green bananas thoroughly. Cut off both ends of each banana. Using a knife, make a shallow slit lengthwise through the peel, being careful not to cut into the flesh.
Step 2: Peel the Bananas
Remove the thick green peel using the slit as a guide. Discard the peels and set the peeled bananas aside.
Step 3: Boil the Bananas
Place the peeled bananas in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the bananas are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, ginger, and green onions, and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Add Seasonings and Coconut Milk
Stir in the chopped tomato, thyme sprigs, allspice, Creole seasoning (if using), salt, and coconut milk. Add the Scotch Bonnet pepper whole for mild heat, or cayenne for more even spiciness. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Simmer the Bananas
Add the boiled green bananas to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the bananas evenly.
Step 7: Serve
Once the sauce has reduced and the bananas are fully coated, remove from heat. Serve hot as a side dish or as part of a traditional Caribbean meal.
Serving Suggestions
Green Banana Run Down pairs well with steamed vegetables, sautéed greens, cabbage, or other Caribbean-style dishes. It can be enjoyed at breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is best served warm.
Final Thoughts
Green Banana Run Down is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the versatility of green bananas and the richness of coconut-based cooking. With its creamy texture, aromatic spices, and comforting taste, it’s a perfect way to explore Caribbean cuisine at home.