Chocolate Banana Panini - Whole Grain Gourmet

What's this all about?

We love whole grains! We have found that we prefer their flavor. They are also far healthier than the refined foods which characterize the typical modern diet.

Switching to whole grains helps maintain a low glycemic diet. That means you will have more sustainable energy levels throughout the day, and probably fewer problems with weight control.

We created this website with one goal: to build an online community of like-minded people who either share our enthusiasm about whole grains or just want to learn more about them.

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Chocolate Banana Panini

Written by Whole Grain Gourmet

Thursday, 22 May 2008 00:00

chocolate banana panini

Chocolate with at least 60% cocoa has become one of our staple grocery items. I eat a little every day. Often it's just a few chips right out of the bag. Because of its antioxidant properties it is actually good for you, sugar content aside. Fortunately, dark chocolate is relatively low in sugar.

There are days when I crave something more than pure chocolate as a snack, but I don't have the time to bake up a favorite treat. On those days, I'm so grateful that I discovered this little gem.

This recipe will satisfy your appetite for something rich and chocolaty, and you can prepare it in minutes. It is very simple to make, low in sugar, rich in flavor, and very satisfying. Made with whole grain bread, you can eat it without guilt. The melted chocolaty goodness is a real treat that won't send your blood sugar on a massive roller coaster ride.

I think this recipe is best with slightly tart bananas, such as the apple banana variety, although any banana will work. I look for a banana that is just barely ripe. I then lightly caramelize the banana in a skillet to concentrate the sugar and slightly tenderize it.

If you have a sandwich press, panini grill, or a Foreman type grill, you should use it. If not, a simple frying pan will work just fine.

Chocolate Banana Panini

Ingredients (per panino):

2 slices of your favorite multigrain bread
1 small banana, sliced lengthwise
60% cocoa chocolate chips
cinnamon
virgin coconut oil, or butter

Preparation:

Heat 1/4 tsp of coconut oil in a small skillet over a medium-low heat. Add the sliced banana and allow it to sear briefly on one side (about 30 seconds depending on the temperature). Turn over and sear the other side for about 30 seconds.
Remove the banana from the pan and place it as a single layer on one piece of bread.
Sprinkle some cinnamon over the banana. Cover the banana with a single layer of chocolate chips. I squeeze in every last chip that will fit.
Top the panini with the second piece of bread. Lightly brush both sides of the panini with coconut oil, or butter.
Place the panini in your sandwich press, panini grill, or pan and allow it to toast. If using a pan, press evenly with a spatula while toasting, then turn over and repeat on the other side. Slice diagonally and serve.

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Comments (6)

What a genius idea for dessert! I love turning conventionally savory items into sweets!

That definitely looks like a snack that would hit the spot!

This sounds absolutely delicious! I can't wait to try it on my chocoholic daughter.

This looks incredible- I am thinking this would be a great camping dessert!

Oh this sounds good! I like the idea of using coconut oil, can you taste the difference?

Yes, you can taste the difference, Veronica.

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