Orange Banana Bread

When bananas turn brown instead of throwing them out, why not take this opportunity to make delicious and healthy banana bread that the whole family can enjoy. The freshly squeezed orange juice and a touch of its rind give a fresh and lively flavor to the banana bread. If you prefer you can add different nuts to the bread such as almonds or crushed filberts.

Not everyone likes raisins in banana bread but if you do by all means throw some in. It’s fun to experiment with different ingredients and amounts. The recipes that I provide are only guidelines and the using only whole food.

I like to use freshly ground spelt flour, it’s always a good idea to change your grains. Use the freshest whole flour that you can get your hands on. Remember it’s you and your family’s body that you are feeding.

The ripe fruit contains many of the necessary elements that are essential for a balanced diet. Although it is 75 percent water, the banana also contains fat, natural sugars, protein, potassium, and vitamins A, B complex, and C. A ripe banana is easily digested and it imparts quick energy.

After a workout a protein shake and a slice or two of banana bread is a perfect combination to refuel your energy levels. Try topping the banana bread with ghee and/or unpasteurized creamed honey. What a treat!

Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees

Makes one loaf

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat, spelt or kamut flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or your favorite nut
• ½ cup raisins or currants (optional)
• 3 ripe bananas
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup unpasteurized honey
• 1 T. orange rind
• Juice from 2 large oranges plus the pulp

Method

• Mix all dry ingredients together in a large bowl.
• Add all wet ingredients in a blender and mix for 15 seconds.
• Stir the blended ingredients to the dry ingredients.
• Pour mixture into well greased bread pan and place on middle rack in oven for approximately 45 minutes.
• Insert toothpick to check for doneness (it should come out clean).
• Cover loaf with tinfoil if it is starting to over brown on top.
• Let cool for 30 minutes and then dig in!

Bon Appetite!...TKH