Yes, banana skin has a slightly bitter taste compared to the sweet flesh of the banana.
The bitterness is due to compounds found in the peel itself. While the flesh of a banana is soft and sweet, the skin is thick and fibrous. Eating the peel raw can be unpleasant due to its texture and bitter flavor.
However, the bitterness can be reduced and the texture softened through cooking methods. Popular ways to prepare banana peels include:
- Blending into smoothies: This can mask the bitterness.
- Frying, baking, or boiling: Heating the peel for at least 10 minutes breaks down the fiber, making it easier to chew and digest and lessening the bitterness.
In summary, banana skin does possess a slight bitterness, but this can be mitigated through various cooking techniques.