Before we get carried away with all that is Christmas and Holiday baking, I must I must I must tell you about this banana bread. I first made it a couple of months ago, thinking how nice it would be to pack along on my little yurt retreat. And it was. I broke off chunks of the bread while I sipped tea and relaxed on the deck, the wind rustling leaves overhead. A brave squirrel ventured forth, but in the end he may have gotten only a few crumbs. This deliciousness was also my dessert, as I wrapped myself in a blanket and read for hours, wind howling outside the yurt. And I won't fib ya, it may have also been breakfast. Accompanying good coffee, it was a mighty fine way to start the day. Baking the bread recently, I felt like I was back in that time, that place. Does that happen to you too? One taste and your mind travels backwards. Food and memory are forever intertwined; a way of rousing the good times when you may need a little comfort. I hope you grow just as fond of this bread as I have. It's got loads of deep, dark chocolate flavour; the pockets of melted chocolate are the best part, especially when the bread has the warmth of the oven still clinging about. The crumb has a dampness to it, thanks to the buttermilk and banana. A substantial loaf, one worthy of a good slather of butter if you're feeling ever so indulgent.
