How many calories in a Platano Manzano?

According to nutritional data, a single, 70-gram platano manzano contains approximately 56 calories. This petite fruit, also known as the apple banana, offers a flavorful and nutritious alternative to the more common Cavendish variety, making it a great choice for a health-conscious snack.

Quick Summary

A ripe platano manzano, or apple banana, contains around 56 to 90 calories depending on its size. This flavorful, small fruit is a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and B6. Its nutritional profile is comparable to a larger Cavendish banana, but with a unique taste and texture.

Key Points

• Calorie Count: A single, 70-gram platano manzano has about 56 calories.

• Size Difference: Platanos manzano are smaller and stockier than common Cavendish bananas, influencing their total calorie content.

• Nutrient-Rich: This fruit is a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and B6.

• Flavor Profile: Ripe manzano bananas have a sweet, creamy flavor with apple and strawberry notes.

• Ripeness Matters: Manzano bananas are best eaten raw when their skin develops black spots, indicating maximum sweetness.

• Culinary Versatility: They can be enjoyed raw, blended in smoothies, or baked into delicious desserts.

A Detailed Look at Platano Manzano Calories and Nutrition

Understanding the calorie count and nutritional value of a platano manzano is straightforward, but it's important to consider factors like serving size and ripeness. The calorie range can vary slightly depending on the specific source, though most estimates place a standard-sized manzano banana between 56 and 90 calories. The discrepancy often relates to the banana's size, as they are naturally smaller than the ubiquitous Cavendish banana.

Size and Calorie Considerations

A typical 70-gram platano manzano has about 56 calories, while a slightly larger one might be closer to 90 calories. For context, this is generally less than a large Cavendish banana, which averages around 105 calories. For those tracking their intake, knowing the size of your fruit is key to accuracy. The manzano banana is smaller, chunkier, and possesses a creamy texture and a distinct flavor profile with notes of apple and strawberry.

Beyond Calories: The Nutritional Profile

While the calorie count is a primary concern for many, the manzano banana's nutritional contributions are equally important. This tiny fruit packs a good amount of vital nutrients. A typical serving provides a healthy dose of fiber, which aids in digestion, as well as a significant amount of potassium, an essential mineral for maintaining healthy blood pressure. It's also a valuable source of vitamins C and B6, which support immune function and metabolism, respectively.

Manzano vs. Cavendish Banana: A Nutritional Comparison

To fully appreciate the manzano's profile, it is helpful to compare it directly with the more common Cavendish variety. The differences are subtle but noteworthy. A manzano typically has slightly fewer calories and carbohydrates per serving due to its smaller size, but retains a robust vitamin and mineral content.

Nutrient	Manzano Banana (per banana)	Cavendish Banana (per banana)
Calories	~90	~105
Fat	0.33g	0.39g
Carbohydrates	23g	27g
Sugar	12g	14g
Protein	1.1g	1.3g
Potassium	362mg	422mg

This comparison shows that both are excellent, low-fat fruit choices, but the manzano offers a slightly lower-calorie option while still providing great nutritional benefits.

Ways to Enjoy a Platano Manzano

Manzano bananas are remarkably versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Their creamy texture and unique flavor make them perfect for a range of recipes. Here are some popular options:

• Raw Snack: Eat it out of hand when fully ripe (skin is spotty or black). The fruit becomes sweeter and its unique flavor is most pronounced.
• In Smoothies: Blend the sweet, creamy flesh into your favorite smoothie recipe for a richer, more unique flavor.
• Baked Goods: Use them in baking applications like breads, cakes, and muffins. Their sweetness and texture work perfectly in many recipes.
• Desserts: Slice them into fruit salads, use them in trifles, or simply top them with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating the world of new fruits can bring up a lot of questions. Here are some answers to common queries about the platano manzano.

Conclusion

A platano manzano is a delicious, nutritious, and convenient fruit with a calorie count that is generally lower than its larger Cavendish relative. A single fruit contains approximately 56 to 90 calories, alongside beneficial fiber, potassium, and vitamins. Its unique flavor and texture make it a delightful addition to any diet, whether enjoyed raw or in various recipes. As with all foods, mindful consumption is key, but the manzano banana is a healthy and flavorful choice for a balanced diet.

Sources

• https://fitia.app/calories-nutritional-information/slug-EC-F-V-00016567/
• https://www.bhg.com/recipes/how-to/cook-with-fruits-and-vegetables/manzano-banana/
• https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/manzano-banana-heres-know-adorable-195700526.html
• https://www.dole.com/en-ca/produce/manzano-bananas
• https://www.melissas.com/blogs/flavor-first/bananas-for-manzanos

Note: The calorie and nutritional information can vary based on the ripeness, size, and source of the banana. Always consult a dietary professional for personalized advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a platano manzano and a regular banana?

A platano manzano, also known as an apple banana, is smaller and plumper than a regular Cavendish banana. It has a creamier texture and a distinct sweet and tangy flavor with notes of apple and strawberry.

How do I know when a platano manzano is ripe?

Unlike regular bananas that are ready when yellow, a platano manzano is considered fully ripe when its skin is covered in black spots or has turned completely black. At this stage, it is at its sweetest.

Can you eat a platano manzano raw?

Yes, a ripe platano manzano can be eaten raw. In fact, many people prefer it this way to enjoy its unique flavor. Unripe manzano bananas, however, are astringent and not ideal for eating raw.

Is a manzano banana healthier than a Cavendish banana?

Both are healthy options. Per serving, the manzano banana has slightly fewer calories, carbs, and potassium due to its smaller size, but offers similar nutrients. Your choice should come down to flavor preference.

Where can I find platanos manzano?

Platanos manzano are native to Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. They can often be found in larger grocery stores, international grocery stores, or Hispanic markets.

Can I use manzano bananas in recipes like regular bananas?

Yes, you can use manzano bananas in most recipes that call for bananas, especially in baked goods, smoothies, and desserts. Their distinctive flavor and creamy texture can add a unique twist to your favorite dishes.

Do manzano bananas have a lot of sugar?

A ripe manzano banana contains about 12 grams of sugar per serving, which is slightly less than a standard Cavendish banana's 14 grams. While it is a sweet fruit, its natural sugars are balanced by fiber, making it a better choice than processed sweets.