Product description
The banana flower (also called banana blossom or banana heart) is the large, purple, teardrop-shaped flower that grows at the end of a banana bunch. It is an edible flower widely used in South and Southeast Asian cuisines.
What does it taste like?
- Mild, slightly earthy flavor
- Similar to artichoke hearts with a hint of bitterness
- Tender when cooked properly
- Absorbs spices and seasonings very well
Nutritional benefits Banana flower is naturally rich in:
- Dietary fiber
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Antioxidants and polyphenols
It is also relatively low in calories, making it a nutritious addition to meals.
How to prepare it
- Remove the tough outer purple bracts.
- Collect the pale florets inside.
- Remove the hard central stigma (pistil) and the transparent outer scale (calyx) from each floret.
- Slice or chop the edible portions.
- Soak in water with lemon juice or buttermilk for 15–30 minutes to reduce browning and bitterness.
- Boil or steam briefly before using in recipes.
Popular dishes
- Banana flower curry
- Banana flower stir-fry
- Banana flower fritters (pakoras)
- Coconut banana blossom salad
- Thai banana blossom salad
- Banana flower cutlets
- Banana flower soup
Storage
- Fresh: Refrigerate for up to 3–5 days.
- Prepared: Keep submerged in acidulated water (water with lemon juice or vinegar) until cooking to prevent discoloration.
- Frozen: Blanch first, then freeze for several months.
Banana flower is valued not only for its unique texture and flavor but also as a traditional ingredient in many regional cuisines across India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
