Extremely high and low temperatures can break down the cells and starches in bananas.

(Green Bananas)

Including one using a microwave... 4 Fastest Ways to Ripen Green Bananas

There are some scientifically based tricks that can help speed up banana ripening without damaging them. According to a report published on the Eat This Not That website, experts have offered a set of tips to facilitate and accelerate banana ripening at home. Some people buy green bananas to keep them for as long as possible, but what they need to eat immediately as a healthy snack requires simple steps, as follows:

1. Store with High Ethylene-Producing Fruits

Jennifer Balian, a Bachelor of Science and nutritionist, says, "Ethylene gas is produced by the banana itself and appears in higher concentrations when the banana reaches peak ripeness. When ethylene gas from already ripe fruit is present, the banana produces enzymes that break down cell walls, resulting in softer, more juicy flesh and a sweeter flavor."

Fruits that produce high levels of ethylene include apples, avocados, tomatoes, watermelons, and cantaloupes. Therefore, "generally, placing a green banana alongside one or two apples or tomatoes can be enough to initiate the ripening process."

2. Paper Bag Method

The paper bag method is a similar but more focused approach to stimulating bananas with ethylene-producing fruit. Packing bananas tightly in brown paper bags on a warm surface traps ethylene gases inside, thus accelerating the ripening process. For even faster results, a ripe apple or pear can be placed in the same paper bag.

3. Microwave or Oven

Experts recommend using a microwave to quickly ripen green bananas. First, pierce the sides of the banana with a toothpick, then microwave it for 20-30 seconds, checking it periodically until it reaches the desired consistency. An oven can also be used for the same purpose, but it should be preheated to 150°C (300°F). Place the bananas on a baking sheet in the oven for about 30 minutes.

4. Freezer

Experts say that both very high and very low temperatures break down the cells and starches in bananas, resulting in a soft, mushy texture—the stage of ripening. You can place unpeeled bananas in the freezer to freeze them, then thaw them after several hours to allow them to ripen effectively.