📝 Description

What is this product?

Banana Flower (also known as Banana Blossom or Banana Heart) is a large, teardrop-shaped, purplish-red flower that grows at the end of a banana cluster. It is a popular tropical vegetable used widely in Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisines for its unique earthy flavor and numerous health benefits. The banana flower is packed with fiber, protein, iron, and essential vitamins, making it an excellent plant-based ingredient for vegetarian and vegan diets. Its tender inner petals and core are cooked in curries, stir-fries, soups, and salads, offering a mild, nutty taste and a texture similar to artichokes. Beyond culinary use, it is known for its medicinal properties — especially for promoting hormonal balance and improving digestion.

🌍 Origin

Banana Flowers are cultivated in tropical regions such as India, Thailand, the Philippines, and parts of Africa. In these regions, banana trees grow abundantly, producing both fruit and edible blossoms that are harvested fresh. Locally grown banana flowers are handpicked at maturity, cleaned, and prepared for cooking while maintaining their natural freshness and flavor.

🍽️ Nutrition Table (Per 100g)

Note: Banana Flowers are nutrient-dense and rich in iron and antioxidants that help regulate metabolism, support women’s health, and boost immunity.

👩‍🍳 Cooking Method/Recipes

🥘 Recipe 1: Banana Flower Curry

Ingredients: 1 banana flower (chopped), 1 onion (sliced), garlic, turmeric, coconut milk, and salt.

Method:

1. Clean and chop the banana flower, removing the outer bracts and florets.
2. Boil the chopped pieces for 10 minutes and drain.
3. Sauté onion and garlic, add turmeric, then mix in the boiled flower and coconut milk.
4. Cook until tender and serve with steamed rice.

Why it’s healthy: A rich source of plant-based fiber and iron that supports digestive and hormonal health.

🥗 Recipe 2: Banana Blossom Salad

Ingredients: 1 banana flower (thinly sliced), ½ cup grated carrot, lime juice, chili flakes, salt, and crushed peanuts.

Method:

1. Soak sliced banana flower in lemon water for 10 minutes to remove bitterness.
2. Drain and mix with carrot, lime juice, and chili flakes.
3. Garnish with crushed peanuts and serve fresh.

Why it’s healthy: A refreshing, nutrient-rich salad packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

🧊 Storage Instructions

🏠 Room Temperature

• Keep banana flowers in a cool, shaded area and use within 1–2 days of purchase.

❄️ Refrigeration

• Wrap the banana flower tightly in plastic wrap or store in a sealed container to prevent drying.
• Store in the refrigerator’s vegetable drawer for up to 5 days.

🥶 Freezing

• Clean, blanch, and freeze chopped banana flower portions in airtight containers.
• Use within 1 month for best texture and flavor.

🧺 Handling Tips

• Wear gloves when cleaning as the sap may stain hands.
• Remove tough outer layers and soak the slices in lemon water to avoid darkening.
• Use only the tender inner portion for cooking.