The fried peanut butter and banana sandwich is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in many households for decades. This sweet and savory treat is a perfect combination of crispy, crunchy, and gooey textures that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make the ultimate fried peanut butter and banana sandwich.
History of the Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
The origins of the fried peanut butter and banana sandwich are unclear, but it is often attributed to Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. According to legend, Elvis would often request this sandwich from his favorite chef, and it quickly became one of his favorite snacks. The sandwich gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, and it has since become a staple in many Southern households.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make the ultimate fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
Equipment:
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start assembling the sandwich, you need to prepare the ingredients. Here’s how:
Slicing the Banana:
- Peel the banana and slice it into 1-inch thick rounds.
- Place the banana slices on a plate or cutting board.
Mixing the Peanut Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Set the peanut butter mixture aside.
Preparing the Breading Station:
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, panko breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
- In a separate dish, beat the egg.
- Set the breading station aside.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that the ingredients are prepared, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how:
Spreading the Peanut Butter:
- Take one slice of bread and spread a layer of peanut butter mixture on one side.
- Make sure to leave a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
Adding the Banana Slices:
- Place one or two banana slices on top of the peanut butter layer.
- Make sure the banana slices are centered and not overlapping the edges.
Adding the Second Slice of Bread:
- Place the second slice of bread on top of the banana slices, peanut butter side down.
- Press the sandwich gently to ensure the bread slices are securely attached.
Breading the Sandwich
To give the sandwich a crispy exterior, you need to bread it. Here’s how:
Dredging the Sandwich in Flour:
- Place the sandwich in the flour mixture and coat both sides evenly.
- Shake off any excess flour.
Dipping the Sandwich in Egg:
- Dip the floured sandwich in the beaten egg, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
Coating the Sandwich in Panko Breadcrumbs:
- Place the egg-coated sandwich in the panko breadcrumb mixture and coat both sides evenly.
- Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the sandwich to ensure they stick.
Frying the Sandwich
Now that the sandwich is breaded, it’s time to fry it. Here’s how:
Heating the Oil:
- Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- When the oil is hot, add the breaded sandwich.
Frying the Sandwich:
- Fry the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and crispy.
- Use a spatula to carefully flip the sandwich.
Draining Excess Oil:
- Remove the sandwich from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Let the sandwich drain excess oil for about 30 seconds.
Serving and Enjoying
The ultimate fried peanut butter and banana sandwich is now ready to be served and enjoyed. Here are some tips:
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the sandwich warm and enjoy it as a snack or dessert.
- Cut the sandwich in half or into quarters for easier handling.
- Serve the sandwich with a side of whipped cream, ice cream, or chocolate sauce.
Tips and Variations:
- Use a panini press or grill to toast the sandwich instead of frying it.
- Add sliced honey or Nutella to the peanut butter mixture for extra flavor.
- Use different types of bread, such as whole wheat or sourdough, for a unique texture.
In conclusion, the ultimate fried peanut butter and banana sandwich is a delicious and satisfying treat that is perfect for any occasion. With its crispy exterior and gooey interior, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the sweet and savory goodness of this classic comfort food.
What is the origin of the Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich?
The Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich is a popular American sandwich that is believed to have originated in the Southern United States. The exact origin of the sandwich is unclear, but it is often attributed to Elvis Presley, who was known to be a fan of the combination of peanut butter, bananas, and fried bread.
The sandwich gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly among children and teenagers, who loved the sweet and savory combination of flavors and textures. Today, the Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich remains a beloved treat that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
What type of bread is best for a Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich?
The best type of bread for a Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich is a crusty bread that can hold up to the filling and the frying process. White bread, such as Challah or brioche, is a popular choice because it is soft and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Other types of bread, such as whole wheat or sourdough, can also be used, but they may not provide the same level of crunch and texture as white bread. It’s also important to choose a bread that is not too dense or heavy, as this can make the sandwich difficult to fry and may result in a greasy or soggy texture.
How do I prevent the banana from turning brown in the sandwich?
To prevent the banana from turning brown in the sandwich, it’s best to use a ripe but firm banana and to slice it just before assembling the sandwich. You can also sprinkle a little lemon juice or vinegar on the banana slices to help prevent browning.
Another way to prevent browning is to use a banana that is high in acidity, such as a Lady Finger or a Red banana. These bananas have a naturally sweeter and more acidic flavor than other types of bananas, which can help to prevent browning.
Can I use natural peanut butter in the Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter in the Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich. Natural peanut butter has a coarser texture and a more pronounced peanut flavor than processed peanut butter, which can add depth and complexity to the sandwich.
However, keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be more prone to oil separation, which can affect the texture of the sandwich. To prevent this, you can stir the peanut butter well before spreading it on the bread, or you can use a natural peanut butter that has been stabilized with ingredients like palm oil or honey.
How do I fry the sandwich without making it greasy?
To fry the sandwich without making it greasy, it’s best to use a non-stick skillet or griddle and to heat a small amount of oil or butter over medium heat. You can also use a cooking spray or a small amount of cooking oil to prevent the sandwich from sticking to the pan.
When frying the sandwich, make sure to cook it for a short amount of time on each side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy. This will help to prevent the sandwich from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
Can I make the Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich in a panini press?
Yes, you can make the Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich in a panini press. In fact, a panini press can be a great way to make the sandwich, as it can help to melt the peanut butter and cook the bread evenly.
To make the sandwich in a panini press, simply assemble the sandwich as you would normally, and then place it in the press. Cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
How do I store leftover Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwiches?
Leftover Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To reheat the sandwich, simply place it in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes, until the bread is crispy and the peanut butter is melted.
You can also freeze the sandwich for up to 2 months. To freeze the sandwich, simply place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer. To reheat the sandwich, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in a toaster oven or under the broiler.