BANANA BLOSSOM

Mild in flavour, this popular plant-based seafood alternative can be found in Asian cuisine, health food stores as well as curries, stir-fries and salads.

There are now plenty of options in the alternative meat market, but one area that has been less explored is alternative seafood. Banana blossom is one of the plant-based fish alternatives that has had a recent rise in popularity. Also known as a ‘banana heart’, the purple-skinned flower comes from the tip of the banana plant. It’s a common ingredient in Indian and South-East Asian cuisine and like other plant-based meat alternatives such as jackfruit, it is used for its texture and neutral flavour. The flesh of the banana blossom is white and has a fish-like, flaky texture. Because of its mild base flavour, it can be easily marinated in salty and umami flavours like nori, garlic and soy sauce, or even deep-fried for a fish-free ‘fish and chips’ meals. Health-wise, banana blossoms don’t offer the same nutritional benefits as fish, but are rich in potassium, calcium, vitamin A and vitamin C, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Banana blossoms can be found in the canned food section of Asian supermarkets, as well as health stores. There are plenty of ways you can cook with banana blossoms, including in curries, stir-fries, tacos and salads.