One of the sweetest and smallest banana varieties, the baby banana is also known as the Finger Banana. Just about 3 inches (7.5 cm) long, when ripe, it has a thick, bright yellow peel and pale, creamy, dense flesh. The baby banana is native to Colombia, where it grows on a tree-size plant in bunches of“hands”that may each contain 10 to 12 “fingers” or bananas. The bananas are harvested and shipped while still green.
Because of its small size and sweetness, this little banana is loved by children. As a wholesome (有益健康的) source of complex carbohydrates (碳水化合物), it is a perfect addition to lunchboxes, providing a good energy boost for active kids. Like all bananas, it is loaded with nutrients. It is an excellent source of heart-healthy vitamin B6. In addition, the banana provides a good source of vitamin C, fiber and potassium, which have many health benefits.
In addition to being eaten as it is, the baby banana can be baked, sauteed, broiled, or even grilled, and it is a wonderful addition to fruit salads. For a healthy treat that children, especially, will love, peel one and push a wooden stick into one end. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it until solid. Serve it frozen.
As with all bananas, the baby banana should be purchased while still relatively green. Be sure to select ones with smooth, clean skins. Store them at room temperature. Refrigerating bananas will delay the ripening process. If bananas are ripening too quickly for use, place them in the refrigerator. The skins will turn brown, but the flavor of the fruit will not be affected. To store for longer use, the bananas may be mashed with a little lemon juice and stored in resealable plastic bags in the freezer for up to two months.
8. From which continent does the baby banana originate?
A.South America. | B.Europe. | C.Asia. | D.Africa. |
9. What does paragraph 2 mainly tell us about the baby banana?
A.Its size. | B.Its function. | C.Its shape. | D.Its fingers. |
10. Why does the author mention the frozen baby bananas in paragraph 3?
A.To tell readers they can bring energy to kids. |
B.To prove they are the children's favorite fruit. |
C.To show readers another good way of eating them. |
D.To indicate that the baby bananas will have more nutrients when frozen. |
11. Which of the following is NOT a result of refrigerating bananas?
A.Their flavor stays the same. |
B.They can ripen as soon as possible. |
C.Their color can be changed into brown. |
D.Their process of ripening can be slowed down. |