One of the wonderful things about living in Turkey is the year-round supply of fresh, flavoursome fruit and vegetables. And at this time of year, market stalls are piled high with bunches of Turkish bananas — or muz.
Turkish bananas are smaller than their imported counterparts, but what they lack in size, they more than make up for in flavour. While imported bananas might look impressive, they rarely match the sweet aroma and delicate taste of the homegrown muz.
The Anamur Banana
The district of Anamur, located in the southern province of Mersin, is Turkey’s banana capital, producing around 40% of the country’s total banana consumption.
Banana plants thrive in the region’s warm, humid climate and love a sea view — which is why plantations can be seen stretching along Anamur’s rugged coastline.
‘Giving birth’
If you visit Anamur in August, you might hear a curious sound coming from the plantations. Locals call it the moment when banana plants “give birth,” or give branches. It happens when the flower’s outer crust breaks open to reveal new banana clusters. The flowers bend downward while the fruit grows upward — an incredible process that happens so quickly, you can actually watch it unfold.
Health Benefits of Banana Flowers
We all know bananas are good for us, but the banana flower is a nutritional powerhouse in its own right.
Boosts mood: High in magnesium, banana flowers can help ease anxiety and act as a natural antidepressant.
Supports healthy blood: They help raise haemoglobin levels, improving oxygen and nutrient transport throughout the body.
Rich in antioxidants: Containing tannins, flavonoids, and other antioxidants, banana flowers combat free radicals that contribute to heart disease, cancer, and ageing.
Diabetic-friendly: The fibre content helps lower blood sugar levels naturally.
Harvest
Harvest season runs from September to February, when markets, greengrocers (manavlar), and roadside stalls overflow with fresh bananas. It’s the best time to enjoy these small, sweet fruits that taste like sunshine.
How do you like yours?
We like our Anamur bananas sliced with locally produced yoghurt, honey and almonds.
Delicious in a smoothie, Turkish style
Use up your ripe bananas in this Date, Walnut, Banana & Honey cake
So, next time you’re choosing your bananas, you’ll have to decide: is it size that matters — or is it flavour?
Of course, you can always eat two! 🍌
