The Former US President Who Goes Wild For A Peanut Butter And Banana Sandwich

The idea of a presidential meal conjures a visual of suited staff serving plates of elaborate meals featuring specialty ingredients, elegantly plated. And while that might be the case under some special circumstances, the food choices of some presidents can be just like the quick meals we civilians whip up in a pinch on the go. So, it probably shouldn't come as surprise that peanut butter and banana sandwiches were a staple that was enjoyed by former President Bill Clinton. Just spread your favorite peanut butter on a piece of bread, layer on chopped banana slices, add the second bread slice, and you've got yourself a presidential snack. Maybe give the sandwich a good grill for a gourmet touch.

As a matter of fact, it's not just former presidents who go nuts for peanut butter and bananas. This flavorful combination is reportedly also one of legendary rock star Elvis Presley's favorites. Who would have thought that this humble and seemingly basic snack could have such an elite community of connoisseurs?

Amongst the busy hustle of the White House, keeping things convenient and satiating is probably the way to go. Former President Clinton isn't the only one to turn to familiar favorites that are prized for their simplicity. Former Vice President Kamala Harris also gravitates toward her favorite South Indian classic mainstay breakfast. While the presidential palates might be privy to some of the most out-of-reach foods for us "regular" people, there's still always room for the simple.

What is it about the dynamic duo of peanut butter and bananas that makes them a beloved combination among celebrities and common folk alike? Be it spreading spoonfuls of peanut butter over sliced bananas for a quick snack or elevating an ordinary banana bread recipe with peanut butter, there is something deeply satisfying when the two flavors come together. There is a science behind why some flavor combinations feel like a match made in heaven. When contrasting or complementary flavors come together, they activate taste receptors that make certain combinations particularly desirable. In this scenario, the sweetness from the bananas paired with the rich, salty, savory notes of the peanut butter creates a balanced, tasty bite that awakens one's taste buds. Furthermore, if peanut butter banana sandwiches were a childhood staple, the repeated exposure to the flavor combination makes one accustomed to it and maybe even crave it.

Plus, the nutrient boost is always an added bonus. Peanuts are legumes (not nuts) packed with protein and healthy fats, while bananas are rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium. There's no reason not to put that ripening banana and a jar of peanut butter to some tasty tests, unless you're allergic, of course. If a clean ingredient list is high on your set of peanut butter priorities, opt for those without added sugars or preservatives, like the freshly ground varieties that usually use peanuts as the sole ingredient. That said, store-bought jars can also bring the health benefits of the mighty peanut. Of course, not all brands on the shelves are worth spending money on, and it's good to know which peanut butter brands to buy and which to avoid.