Beat the heat with banana “ice cream”

….suitable for dysphagia

Sunshine and warm temperatures are two of the best parts of the British Summer and what better food to enjoy on a hot day than ice cream.  Sadly, people with dysphagia (swallowing problems) who require thickened fluids in order to help them swallow more safely, are not allowed to have ice cream.  This is because ice cream melts in the mouth and turns into an unthickened liquid which can increase the risk of aspiration.  Adding thickener to melted ice cream really takes away from the sensory experience and enjoyment.  So what’s the answer?

I recently attended a barbecue where the host served this banana “ice cream” and I have to say, I absolutely LOVE it (even more than regular ice cream)!  It occurred to me this week that it would also be perfect for people with dysphagia,  so please help me share this idea with as many people as possible.

As always, check with the Speech and Language Therapist before giving it to someone with dysphagia.

Recipe

Step 1.

Peel some very ripe bananas and break them into chunks.

Step 2.

Take the chunks of banana, place them in a freezer bag and freeze until hard.

Step 3.

Take 175 grams of frozen banana out of the freezer and let thaw slightly until the outside just starts to soften, but the middle is still frozen.

Step 4.

Place the partially frozen banana chunks into a food processor or blender and add 25-30 grams of greek yogurt (vanilla flavour or plain).

Step 5.

Blend until completely smooth.  You will need to scrape down the sides several times.  Do not add more yogurt or the end product will be too runny.

Step 6.

Transfer to a serving dish (a wine glass looks nice) and enjoy immediately for maximum frostiness!

To get a handout with this recipe, please contact Sheri Taylor, Dietitian at info@specialistnutritionrehab.co.uk.