Have you ever seen a blue banana? They may look unusual, but they are completely natural. Despite their lovely bubble-gum-blue color, the Blue Java, also known as the “blue banana,” is a tasty and nutritious fruit. Blue fruits and plants are rare in nature, but they exist and are tantalizing the palates of food enthusiasts everywhere.

Origins of the Blue Banana

Blue bananas predominantly grow in humid and sunny regions like Fiji, the Philippines, and Southeast Asia. While the classic banana varieties need tropical heat to thrive, the Blue Java is unique. It can withstand temperatures as low as -7°C! This remarkable resistance allows it to grow in various climates.

The Delicious Surprise Inside

The blue banana not only has a vibrant blue peel but also a surprising taste. While the flesh of this banana appears similar to other varieties with its pale yellow color, its smooth texture and vanilla flavor make it a delight for any sweet tooth. In Hawaii, it’s even known as the “ice cream banana.” This intriguing fruit has gained popularity among food enthusiasts worldwide.

Where Can You Find Them?

With climate change and fluctuating weather patterns, it’s now possible to grow blue bananas in regions where they were not previously cultivated. The increasing fascination with this unique fruit can be witnessed on social media platforms, where mouthwatering pictures of the blue banana are making their rounds.

The Blue Foods Revolution

Blue food may be surprising, but it’s not as rare as you might think. Apart from blueberries and merlot grapes, there are other blue-skinned fruits and vegetables out there. For instance, blue-skinned tomatoes can be grown in your own garden if the climate is humid and doesn’t exceed 25°C. The OSU Blue tomato, a small cocktail-like variety, was created by an American research center in the early 2000s.

Another example is the blue apple, a climbing vine found in the forests of Australia and Tasmania. Its purplish-blue fruits have a skin resembling an aubergine but the taste of an apple.

Blue Vanilla: The Symbol of Good Health

Vanilla is a well-known flavor, but have you heard of blue vanilla? While its name suggests a blue hue, the bean itself is not blue. Originating from Reunion Island, this special variety of vanilla has impressed renowned chefs (though it comes with a hefty price tag of nearly $1,000 per kilo). Blue vanilla undergoes a long maturation process, and the Escale Bleue is the only supplier, refining it for six years to create a limited edition. Its subtle aroma is not its only asset; blue vanilla is entirely edible. The name “blue” is a tribute to the locals of Reunion Island, who used the term to describe a healthy plant.

So, keep an eye out for these fascinating blue fruits and immerse yourself in the world of extraordinary flavors!

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