Peanut Butter, Banana, and Mayo Sandwich

Peanut Butter, Banana, and Mayo Sandwich: A Southern Classic!

This sandwich is a beloved staple in many Southern households, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures. It’s quick, easy, and undeniably a taste of nostalgia for those who grew up enjoying it!


Ingredients:

  • 2 slices of white sandwich bread (soft, classic white bread is traditional)
  • 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (or crunchy, if you prefer some texture)
  • 1 small banana, ripe but firm enough to slice easily
  • 1-2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s are often preferred for their tangy flavor)

Equipment:

  • Butter knife or spreading knife
  • Cutting board (optional, for slicing banana)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Bread: Lay your two slices of white sandwich bread flat on a clean surface or plate.
  2. Spread Peanut Butter: Generously spread creamy peanut butter on one side of one slice of bread.
  3. Spread Mayonnaise: Generously spread mayonnaise on one side of the other slice of bread. Don’t be shy – the mayo is key to the flavor balance!
  4. Slice Banana: Peel the banana and slice it into thin rounds, about ¼ inch thick.
  5. Assemble the Sandwich: Arrange the banana slices evenly over the peanut butter-coated bread.
  6. Combine: Place the mayonnaise-coated slice of bread on top of the banana slices, with the mayonnaise side facing down onto the banana.
  7. Serve: Gently press the sandwich together. You can cut it in half diagonally or straight across, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this truly Southern treat!

Tips & Variations (if you dare!):

  • Bread Choice: While white bread is traditional, some adventurous eaters might try it on toasted bread for extra crunch, or even a different type of soft bread.
  • Peanut Butter Style: Creamy is the classic, but crunchy peanut butter adds a nice textural element.
  • Banana Ripeness: A ripe but still slightly firm banana works best for slicing and holding up in the sandwich.
  • Mayo Preference: The specific tanginess of mayonnaise brands like Duke’s or Hellmann’s is often cited as important for the authentic Southern flavor.
  • Beyond the Classic (for the truly daring!):
    • Some people add a sprinkle of salt to the banana.
    • A very thin layer of honey or jelly (especially grape) is occasionally seen, though it steps away from the purist version.
    • A few slices of bacon (Elvis’s famously rumored version included bacon, but his often omitted the mayo) can turn it into a truly decadent meal.

It’s definitely one of those food combinations that sparks conversation! What do you think makes it so good for you?

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