Banana Blossom: The Unlikely Vegetable

Are banana blossoms healthy?

Banana blossoms are considered healthy, known for being rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They have potential health benefits such as improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health.

However, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet, particularly if you have existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Where do I find banana blossoms?

Fresh banana blossoms are typically found hanging from banana trees, mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. If you don't have access to banana trees, you can look for fresh banana blossoms at Asian or international grocery stores, especially those that specialize in Southeast Asian ingredients. Canned banana blossoms, often preserved in brine, and dried banana blossoms (bulaklak ng saging) are also available.

How are banana blossoms prepared?

To prepare banana blossoms, peel away the many layers of inedible dark purple leaves until you reach the lighter, tender inner core or heart. It is typically pale yellow or cream in color and is the part you'll use for cooking.

Slice the banana blossom and soak the pieces in water mixed with lemon juice or vinegar to prevent browning; massaging the pieces with coarse salt also helps remove any residual sap and bitterness. Keep them submerged until you're ready to use, then rinse thoroughly to wash away the salt and any remaining sap.

Dried banana blossoms (also known as bulaklak ng saging or kinchamsay) are the small flowers nestled between the larger petals of the banana blossom. They are typically soaked in soy sauce and vinegar, then dehydrated under the sun. These are used in Filipino stews like Humba and Paksiw na Pata to add flavor and texture.

Filipino recipes using banana blossoms

While gaining popularity today as a meat substitute, this vegetable has been a staple in Filipino cooking. Here are some classic Filipino dishes that showcase the versatility of banana blossoms.

• Ginataang Puso ng Saging: A creamy, spicy dish where banana blossoms are cooked in coconut milk, often with shrimp paste.
• Kilawing Puso ng Saging: Banana blossoms cooked in vinegar and aromatics.
• Kare-Kare: A rich peanut stew typically made with oxtail, with vegetables like banana blossoms for added texture and flavor.
• Tortang Puso ng Saging:
• Humba: A sweeter version of adobo with dried banana blossoms and fermented soybeans.
• Pata Tim: A stew with pork leg and dried banana blossoms, seasoned with soy sauce and star anise.
• Paksiw na Pata: A stew with pork hock and dried banana blossoms, simmered in vinegar and soy sauce.