Orange banana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fe'i bananas |
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Fe'i bananas in Tahiti
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| Genus | Musa |
| Species | M. × troglodytarum L. |
| Hybrid parentage | Species in Musa section Callimusa |
| Cultivar group | Fe'i Group |
| Origin | Pacific islands, initially New Guinea? |
The Fe'i banana is a special kind of banana often called the Orange banana because of its bright color. You can find these unique bananas growing on islands in the Pacific Ocean, like the Maluku Islands and in Papua New Guinea. Unlike the yellow bananas you usually see, Fe'i bananas have a striking orange-red skin when they are ripe. Even their sap (the liquid inside the plant) is red, not white!
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What Makes Fe'i Bananas Unique?
Fe'i bananas are quite different from the sweet "dessert bananas" we often eat raw. Their most noticeable feature is their vibrant orange-red color when they are ready to be picked. This bright color comes from special nutrients inside the fruit.
Red Sap and Bright Fruit
One of the coolest things about the Fe'i banana plant is its red sap. Most banana plants have white sap, but the Fe'i banana stands out with its reddish liquid. When the fruit ripens, its skin turns a beautiful orange-red. The flesh inside is also often orange or yellow.
Not for Eating Raw
Unlike the common yellow bananas, Fe'i bananas are rarely eaten raw. They are usually cooked before being enjoyed. People often boil, bake, or roast them. This makes them a bit like a vegetable, similar to how some people use plantains.
Where Do Fe'i Bananas Come From?
Scientists are still trying to figure out exactly where the Fe'i banana first grew. Many believe it might have started in Papua New Guinea or other nearby Pacific islands. Over time, people carried these bananas to different islands across the Pacific.
A Pacific Island Favorite
Today, Fe'i bananas are an important food source for many people living on Pacific islands. They are a traditional crop and a valuable part of the local diet. These bananas have been grown and eaten in these regions for a very long time.
How Are Fe'i Bananas Used?
Because Fe'i bananas are usually cooked, they are used in many different ways in traditional island cooking. They can be a main part of a meal or a tasty side dish.
Cooking and Traditional Dishes
People often boil Fe'i bananas until they are soft, then mash them or eat them whole. They can also be baked in ovens or roasted over fires. In some places, they are used in savory dishes, while in others, they might be prepared with coconut milk for a sweeter treat. Their unique texture and flavor make them a versatile ingredient.
