Zero Waste Week Special: Banana Peel Pancakes!

Happy Day 1 of Zero Waste Week! Did you know one of the biggest contributors to global food waste is… bananas? Yes, those yellow delights we love!

But don’t worry, today we’re turning banana peels into something delicious and eco-friendly. Say hello to Banana Peel Pancakes! Not only will you enjoy a tasty breakfast, but you’ll also be doing your part to fight food waste.

Trivia Time!

In the UK alone, 1.4 million bananas are wasted every day!

Banana peels are edible and packed with nutrients like potassium, fibre, and antioxidants.

Ingredients

• 2–3 banana peels (washed and chopped)
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup flour (all-purpose, whole wheat or gluten free)
• ½–¾ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
• 1–2 tablespoons sugar or sweetener (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• Oil or butter for cooking

Optional fun add-ins: cinnamon, vanilla, nuts, chocolate chips

How to Make Banana Peel Pancakes

1. Prep the peels: Wash 2–3 banana peels thoroughly and chop them into small pieces.
2. Cook the peels: Boil or steam the peels for 5–10 minutes to soften them and reduce bitterness, then drain.
3. Mash it up: Combine the cooked peels with 1 ripe banana and mash until smooth.
4. Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, stir together the mashed banana mixture with 1 egg, ½–¾ cup milk, and sugar (if using).
5. Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, a pinch of salt, and optional spices.
6. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until smooth.
7. Cook: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour small amounts of batter to form pancakes, cooking each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
8. Serve & enjoy: Stack them high and top with honey, syrup, nut butter, or your favourite fruits.

These pancakes are not just delicious and healthy, they’re a small step toward reducing food waste. So next time you peel a banana, remember: don’t toss it—flip it!

Celebrate Zero Waste Week with this tasty, guilt-free breakfast and show those banana peels some love!

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