B is for… Banana Blossoms!!
For someone who grew up eating at least half a banana every day, I’m surprised it’s taken until now to realize how cool their growth process is! I only recently learned that banana blossoms even existed, while perusing the interesting produce Berkeley Bowl has to offer. Without really knowing what it was, I ordered one, and then started my research. Let me start by saying this is a complex food with many layers!
The little fringe-like things on the outside are baby bananas! Aren’t they adorable?!
To prepare it, I gently pulled away each petal of the blossom, which would in turn reveal another row of teeny tiny bananas-to-be. These can be prepared and used in salads, curries, anything you like really.
In this case, I was looking for the meaty heart. Because you know what the texture of the heart of a banana blossom is like? Fish! Making banana blossoms the perfect main ingredient for vegan fish and chips. I was skeptical when I first read about this myself, but I can assure you banana blossoms are a wonderful substitute for fish in this preparation.
Banana blossoms can be fairly time consuming to prepare, mainly because they’re so delicate and there are so many layers and pieces to carefully pull apart. In my view, it’s worth it. The ‘petals’ can even be used as a pretty and interesting garnish. I’ll also emphasize that what appears like a really big blossom, when the petals are removed, turns into a much smaller ‘heart’, so take that into account if you’re planning on having banana blossom ‘fish’ as a main course.
For the fish and chips, I dredged the banana blossoms in some flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Then I dipped it into a batter made with flour, water, salt, pepper, turmeric for a gorgeous golden glow, and a splash of lemon juice. I did this to taste, and it worked out well! Simply pan fry in a skillet or on a grill pan for a few minutes until the batter is crispy and the blossoms are cooked through.
I’m excited to try other parts of the banana blossom in a few different dishes — more to come on this — and have plans for a vegan fish and chip feast in the near future!
