A banana blossom is low in calories and full of fiber.
But, what exactly is a banana blossom?
Is it related to the fruit?
Photo: Getty Images
And how do you prepare and cook them?
Learn all that and more about this purple blossom.
So, what exactly are banana blossoms?
Are they related to the beloved edible fruit, the banana?
Read on to learn more about banana blossoms.
What is a banana blossom?
Banana blossoms are the flowers of a jot down of wild banana,Musa acuminata.
This banana species is believed to benative to Malaysiabut has spread to India and Burma.
They grow at the tip of the banana clusters and hang at the end of the stem.
What do banana blossoms taste like?
Likeartichokes, the heart of the banana blossom is wrapped within the outer leaves.
Banana blossoms are not the same as banana leaves.
The latter are thick and, while technically edible, aren’t typically eaten.
What are the origins of banana blossoms in cooking?
Banana flower poriyal is a blossom stir-fry with a blend of red chile, cumin seeds and ground coconut.
Vazhaipoo vadai are banana blossom fritters.
And vazhaipoo thogayal is a banana-blossom-based spicy chutney that goes well with rice.
In Thailand, banana blossoms are enjoyed in a variety of dishes.
Pad thai may be served with banana blossoms on the side.
In Thai and Malaysian cuisine, banana blossoms may also be boiled or steamed and consumed as a vegetable.
Banana blossoms can be chopped finely for use in patties and dumplings.
Whole Foods, for instance, carriesUpton’s Naturals Banana Blossom in Brine.
You may also order frozen banana blossomsonline.
Nutritional value of banana blossoms
A typical100-gram (3.5-oz.)
The flowers also containantioxidantsand have less naturally occurring sugars than the banana fruit does.
What is known is that theflowers are high in fiber.
Promoting the feeling of fullness,fiberalso helps prevent constipation and improves digestive health.
When peeled, you will find theivory-colored interior.
The edible florets can be cooked after the stamen and stigmas are removed.
It is best to leave the blossom intact until ready for use.
Soaking in acidulated water also reduces the bitterness from the sap present between the petals.
Simply chop up the hearts and toss them withyour favorite saladand dressing.
you’re able to also slice them up and add them to stir-fries orsoups.
You could also treat them as a fish substitute and enjoy them as vegan fish and chips.
For this preparation, dip the banana blossom hearts in a batter before frying.
Canned and frozen banana blossoms last much longer, as long as they are sealed in a package.
Once the package is opened, it is also best to use them immediately to avoid browning.
The Bottom Line
Banana blossoms are commonly eaten in Southeast Asian and South Asian communities.
Their neutral flavor and flaky texture make them a good substitute for fish.
Keep an eye out for these purple blossoms at your local grocery store.
