Bananas can be ripened quickly by several effective methods:
- Place unpeeled bananas in a paper bag with other ethylene-producing fruits like apples or avocados. Fold the bag closed and leave it at room temperature. This speeds up ripening using natural ethylene gas and usually works in 1-2 days.
- Bake unpeeled bananas in an oven at 300°F (about 150°C) for 20-40 minutes until their skin turns black and the bananas become soft. Let them cool before using. This instantly softens bananas for baking purposes.
- Use an air fryer preheated to 300°F and cook unpeeled bananas for 8-10 minutes until blackened and soft.
- Microwaving bananas peeled and pricked with a fork in short intervals until soft is another faster option, but less common than baking or bag methods.
Among these, the oven and air fryer methods are fastest for immediate use in baking, while the paper bag method is the simplest for ripening in a day or two without heat. For eating raw, natural ripening in a paper bag or warm spot is preferable.
