Banana Pearls

Naturally creamy and sweet, banana pearls add soft bursts of flavor to pancakes, ice cream, and tropical cocktails.

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe banana (peeled and chopped)
  • ½ cup (125mL) cold water
  • 1 tbsp (15mL) lemon juice
  • ½ tsp (2g) sodium alginate
  • 1 tsp (4.5g) calcium chloride
  • 2 cups (500mL) ice-cold water (for bath)

Instructions

  1. Purée Base
    • Blend banana with water and lemon juice until smooth.
  2. Add Alginate
    • Sprinkle sodium alginate into the blender while running on low speed. Blend for 1 minute.
  3. Rest
    • Let sit 30–45 minutes to settle and remove air bubbles.
  4. Strain
    • Strain through fine mesh sieve into The Spherificator®.
  5. Prepare Bath
    • Dissolve calcium chloride in 500mL ice-cold water.
  6. Form Pearls
    • Using The Spherificator®, drip mixture into bath from 5 inches. Cure for 1 minute.
  7. Finish
    • Rinse with cold water and serve chilled.

Expert Tips

Flavor Enhancements
  • Tropical: Add a splash of coconut milk for richness.
  • Spiced: Mix in pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Texture Control
  • Smoother pearls: Double strain banana purée.
  • Thicker base: Add 1 tsp honey or maple syrup.
Troubleshooting
  • If pearls sink: Make smaller pearls or lighten with water.
  • If too thick: Add 1 tbsp water and reblend.
Serving Ideas
  • Breakfast: On pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
  • Desserts: Over banana bread, ice cream, or tarts.
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