Methods/steps

Note: All ingredients should be at room temperature.

Preheat oven to 350F (180°C)

Sift flour with baking powder and salt.

Blend shortening, sugar and lemon zest to a creamy consistency.

Beat the eggs, mash the bananas, blend both well with the shortening/sugar mixture.

Add the sifted ingredients in three steps, beating the batter after each addition until smooth.

Fold in the chopped nuts, candied chiles and coconut flakes.

Pour banana nut bread batter into a well-greased loaf pan.

Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cool before slicing.