Saba Banana

Saba Banana is a type of banana that is native to the Philippines. It is one of the most important banana varieties in Philippine cuisine. It is also known as the Cardaba banana, though the latter name may also refer to the more primitive wild-type bananas.

Description

The Saba banana grows on a banana plant that reaches a height of 20 to 25 feet. The plant typically has large, robust leaves that are a deep green color. The bananas themselves are angular and chunky, and they are usually harvested while still green. When ripe, they have a yellow skin and a starchy, slightly sweet flesh.

Uses

Saba bananas are primarily a cooking banana, similar to the plantain. They are used in a variety of dishes in the Philippines, including the popular dessert banana cue, which is made by deep frying the bananas and then coating them in caramelized brown sugar. They are also used in the traditional Filipino dish sinigang, a sour soup.

In addition to their culinary uses, Saba bananas are also used in traditional medicine in the Philippines. They are believed to have a number of health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting the immune system.

Cultivation

Saba bananas are a hardy variety that can be grown in a range of conditions. They prefer a tropical climate, but can tolerate some cold. They are typically grown from suckers, which are shoots that grow from the base of the banana plant.

See also

• Banana production in the Philippines
• Banana cue
• Sinigang