When you think of bananas, your mind likely jumps to the sweet, curved fruit we all know and love.
However, did you know that the banana plant has another delicious treat to offer? Here comes the banana tree flower, sometimes referred to as the banana blossom or the banana heart.
With a distinct flavor and texture that may take your cookery to new heights, this purple, teardrop-shaped flower bud is a hidden gem in the world of unusual foods.
In this post, we will share some benefits and recipes of banana tree flowers while exploring their origins, nutritional benefits, and most importantly, how to transform them into a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
What is a Banana Tree Flower?
Contrary to popular belief, bananas don’t grow on trees but on large herbaceous plants. You will find a large, purple, teardrop-shaped bud at the end of the banana bunch. This is the banana tree flower.
As the plant grows, the bud’s outer purple leaves (called bracts) peel back to reveal rows of tiny flowers that will eventually become bananas.
However, the bud itself, when harvested before it fully develops, becomes a versatile ingredient used in many Asian cuisines, particularly in Southeast Asian countries like India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Nutritional Powerhouse:
Banana tree flowers aren’t just a culinary curiosity; they’re also packed with nutrients. These blossoms are low in calories but high in fiber, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.
They’re also rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. Some studies suggest that banana flowers may have anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties, adding to their appeal as a healthy ingredient.
Preparing Banana Tree Flowers:
Working with banana tree flowers requires some preparation, but the effort is worth it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your banana flower ready for cooking:
1. Start by removing the tough outer layers of the flower until you reach the pale, tender inner leaves.
2. Cut the flower in half lengthwise and remove the central stem, which can be bitter.
3. Immediately submerge the cut flower in water mixed with lemon juice or vinegar to prevent discoloration.
4. Finely chop or slice the flower as required for your recipe.
5. Before cooking, soak the chopped flower in salted water for about 15-20 minutes to remove any residual bitterness.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to a delicious recipe that showcases the unique qualities of the banana tree flower.
Recipe: Banana Flower and Coconut Curry
This aromatic curry combines the subtle flavors of banana flowers with the richness of coconut milk, creating a harmonious dish that’s both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients:
– 1 large banana flower, prepared as described above
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1 sprig curry leaves
– 2 green chilies, slit
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add curry leaves and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onions turn translucent.
4. Stir in turmeric powder and red chili powder. Cook for another minute.
5. Add the prepared banana flower and salt. Mix well and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add grated coconut and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
7. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the banana flower is tender and the curry has thickened.
8. Finally, add lemon juice and adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook.
Variations and Tips:
– For a protein boost, you can add cooked chickpeas or cubed tofu to the curry.
– If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of green chilies or add a pinch of red chili flakes.
– The curry tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a larger batch for leftovers.
Serving Suggestions:
While this curry is delicious on its own with rice, you can create a complete meal by adding some complementary dishes. Try serving it with:
– A simple cucumber and tomato salad for freshness
– Papadums or crispy poppadoms for texture
– A cooling raita made with yogurt, cucumber, and mint
Sourcing Banana Tree Flowers:
Finding banana tree flowers might seem challenging, but with a little effort, you can source this exotic ingredient. Here are some places to look:
1. Asian Markets: Many Asian grocery stores, particularly those specializing in Southeast Asian cuisines, often stock fresh or frozen banana flowers.
2. Farmers’ Markets: If you live in a region where bananas grow, local farmers might sell banana flowers when in season.
3. Online Retailers: Some specialty food websites offer frozen or canned banana flowers, which can be a convenient alternative to fresh ones.
4. Grow Your Own: If you live in a suitable climate, you could try growing a banana plant. Even if it doesn’t produce fruit, you’ll have access to the flowers.
Storing Banana Tree Flowers:
Once you’ve sourced your banana flowers, proper storage is crucial to maintain their freshness:
1. Fresh Flowers: Wrap them in a damp cloth and store in the refrigerator. Use within 2-3 days for best quality.
2. Prepared Flowers: After cleaning and chopping, store in water with a squeeze of lemon juice in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
3. Freezing: Blanch prepared flowers for 2-3 minutes, drain, cool, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Now, let’s explore another delicious recipe that showcases the versatility of banana flowers.
Recipe: Crispy Banana Flower Fritters
These fritters make for a perfect appetizer or snack, offering a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 banana flower, finely chopped and prepared as described earlier
– 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
– 1/4 cup rice flour
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 green chilies, finely chopped
– 1 tsp ginger paste
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1 tsp red chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin powder
– Salt to taste
– Water as needed
– Oil for deep frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix chickpea flour, rice flour, chopped onion, green chilies, ginger paste, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin powder, and salt.
2. Add the prepared banana flower and mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter that coats the back of a spoon.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot with chutney or ketchup.
This recipe serves 4-6 as an appetizer and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Beyond Curries and Fritters: Other Ways to Use Banana Flowers
1. Salads: Thinly sliced banana flowers can be used raw in salads, adding a unique texture and mild flavor. They pair well with shredded coconut, lime juice, and fresh herbs.
2. Stir-Fries: Add chopped banana flowers to your favorite stir-fry recipe for an interesting twist.
3. Soups: In some Southeast Asian cuisines, banana flowers are added to soups for extra nutrition and texture.
4. Stuffed Banana Flowers: Whole banana flowers can be hollowed out, stuffed with a spiced mixture of vegetables or meat, and then steamed or baked.
Health Benefits of Banana Flowers
We touched on some nutritional aspects earlier, but let’s delve deeper into the health benefits of incorporating banana flowers into your diet:
1. Heart Health: The high potassium content in banana flowers can help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Digestive Health: Rich in fiber, banana flowers can aid digestion and promote gut health.
3. Menstrual Health: In some traditional medicine systems, banana flower is believed to help regulate menstrual flow and reduce menstrual cramps.
4. Weight Management: Low in calories and high in fiber, banana flowers can be a great addition to a weight management diet.
5. Blood Sugar Control: Some studies suggest that banana flowers may help in controlling blood sugar levels, making them potentially beneficial for people with diabetes.
Sustainability Aspect
Using banana flowers in cooking is not just a culinary adventure; it’s also a step towards more sustainable eating. In many banana-growing regions, the flowers are often discarded after fruit harvesting.
We are minimizing food waste and utilizing a nutrient-dense portion of the plant that could otherwise go to waste by include them in our diets.
Conclusion
The blossoms of banana trees are an intriguing item with a plethora of culinary applications. These unusual flowers can infuse your food with nutrition, flavor, and interest, whether you use them in salads, curries, fritters, or soups.
While they may require some effort to source and prepare, the results are well worth it.
We may broaden our culinary horizons and foster cultural exchanges through food by experimenting with products like banana flowers.
Do not be afraid to bring banana flowers home and start trying the next time you see them at your neighborhood Asian market or specialty shop. Who knows? Maybe you may find your new favorite ingredient.
Keep in mind that cooking is all about experimentation and imagination. Feel free to modify these recipes to suit your preferences or dietary requirements.
The world of banana flower cuisine is wide open, waiting for you to make your mark. Happy cooking!