Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich Recipe

Name: Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons peanut butter; 2 slices whole wheat bread; 1 medium banana, sliced; cooking spray

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Peanut Butter & Banana Sandwich

This simple yet satisfying sandwich is perfect for a quick breakfast or a mid-day snack. With just a few ingredients, you can create a deliciously balanced meal that's both sweet and savory.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 slices whole wheat bread
1 medium banana, sliced
Cooking spray

Directions

Step 1: Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter onto one slice of bread, then arrange the banana slices evenly over the top.

Step 2: Spread the remaining tablespoon of peanut butter onto the second slice of bread. Invert the slice with peanut butter and place it over the bananas. Press down firmly to create a sandwich.

Step 3: Lightly spray a skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat.

Step 4: Place the sandwich onto the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	437	-
Total Fat	19g	24%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Sodium	422mg	18%
Total Carbohydrate	57g	21%
Dietary Fiber	9g	32%
Total Sugars	21g	-
Protein	17g	34%
Vitamin C	10mg	11%
Calcium	81mg	6%
Iron	2mg	13%
Potassium	774mg	16%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin: The Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich is a classic American comfort food that combines the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of ripe bananas. Although the exact origins are unclear, the combination of peanut butter and bananas has been a popular pairing for decades. One of the most famous advocates of this sandwich was none other than Elvis Presley, who is known for his love of this particular snack. It is said that Elvis enjoyed a version of this sandwich that was fried and filled with bacon, adding a savory element to the dish.

Regional Variations and Popularity

While the Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich is widely known across the United States, regional variations can be found depending on local ingredients and preferences. In the southern United States, where Elvis Presley famously consumed this sandwich, the addition of bacon or honey is a common twist. In other parts of the country, people might use different kinds of bread, such as sourdough or whole-grain, to add a unique flavor profile. Some even swap the peanut butter for almond butter or add cinnamon for an extra kick. The versatility of this sandwich makes it a staple for those looking for a quick, filling snack or a light meal.

Comparison to Similar Dishes

At first glance, the Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich may seem similar to the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, but it has its own distinct appeal. The key difference lies in the texture and the addition of bananas, which brings a sweet, creamy element that complements the rich, savory peanut butter. Grilled sandwiches, such as the popular Grilled Cheese, also share similarities but lack the sweetness and the natural flavor boost that bananas provide. The grilled technique adds a crispy texture to the bread while allowing the peanut butter to melt into a creamy, gooey filling.

Where to Serve

This sandwich is ideal for casual meals and can be served in a variety of settings, from a cozy breakfast at home to a light lunch or dinner. Its comfort-food status makes it a favorite in diners and cafes, particularly those specializing in American-style breakfast foods. The sandwich can also be enjoyed as an afternoon snack or served to children as a fun, nutritious meal. Whether at a family gathering or as a solo treat, the Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich is sure to please.

Interesting Facts

Elvis Presley Connection: Elvis Presley was known for his love of this sandwich. His favorite version included crispy bacon, making it a more indulgent treat.
Health Benefits: While its undeniably indulgent, this sandwich offers a good source of protein from the peanut butter and potassium from the bananas, making it a more nutritious option compared to other fried snacks.
Simple and Versatile: The Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich is incredibly versatile, allowing for variations such as adding honey, cinnamon, or even chocolate to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

The Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich is more than just a snackits a piece of Americana with a rich history. Its simplicity, combined with the comforting flavors of peanut butter and banana, has made it a beloved choice for generations. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new variations, this sandwich is sure to delight taste buds and warm hearts.

FAQ about Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich Recipe

If you have leftovers, it is best to store the sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The texture may change upon reheating, so it's recommended to eat it fresh for the best experience.

While it's best to prepare and grill the sandwich just before eating to enjoy it warm, you can assemble the sandwich (without grilling) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready, grill it for a fresh, warm meal.

Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer. Whole wheat is commonly used for a slightly nuttier flavor, but white bread, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread can be great alternatives.

Yes, you can skip the butter or cooking spray. However, it will result in a less crispy exterior. You could opt for a non-stick skillet or grill press if you prefer to avoid extra fats.

Absolutely! You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut butter of your choice. If you need a peanut-free version, try sunflower butter, which has a similar texture and flavor.

To boost the nutrition, you can add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or even a handful of spinach or kale inside the sandwich. This will add more fiber, vitamins, and minerals while keeping the sandwich delicious.

There are many variations you can try! Some people enjoy adding honey, marshmallow fluff, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also experiment with different fruits like strawberries or apples in place of bananas.

Yes, you can make this sandwich on a grill or in a panini press. In fact, using a panini press is a great way to ensure an even, crispy exterior. Just heat the press and grill the sandwich for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

To reheat, you can place the sandwich on a skillet over low heat and cover it to help melt the peanut butter and warm the bananas. Alternatively, you can use a toaster oven or microwave, but the texture might be less crispy.

Freezing the sandwich is not recommended because the texture of the bread and bananas might change upon thawing. If you want to prepare ahead, it’s better to freeze the individual ingredients separately (e.g., bread, peanut butter, and sliced bananas) and assemble the sandwich when you're ready to cook.

Comments

Michael Miller

04/14/2023 07:55:02 AM

This dish exceeded my expectations! Instead of using cooking spray, I fried it in butter and added a drizzle of chocolate on top. The kids absolutely enjoyed it. I'm already planning to make it as French toast next time.

Nancy Williams

03/13/2023 01:17:01 PM

I absolutely adore it.

Timothy Gomez

06/09/2023 02:06:56 PM

I have always loved peanut butter and banana sandwiches, so I was excited to try grilling one. I decided to add honey, which I highly recommend, and although cooking it for 2 minutes resulted in slightly overcooking the bread, it wasn't a big issue. I'm not the best cook, but I enjoyed this dish even with the small mistake, so I am eager to make it again.