What Is a Banana Blossom?
The banana blossom (aka banana flower or banana hearts) as a whole is a purple tear-shape flower that grows at the end of a banana fruit cluster. Once the inedible dark outer petals (these are called bracts) are removed, the inside reveals yellowish tightly-packed petals similar to the way artichokes look. These flower clusters are the edible portion cooked to emulate a shredded fish texture.
What Do Banana Blossoms Taste Like?
Even though they come from the same tree and literally grow off a cluster of bananas, you won’t find any fruity banana flavor here—it’s a flower, after all. Similar to jackfruit or tofu, the flavor of banana blossoms is neutral, meaning they can take on the taste of however you season them.
Banana Blossom Benefits
Not only are banana blossoms an excellent fish substitute for creating vegan seafood dishes, but there are some serious health benefits as well. “We’re always looking for the next big trend that will provide nutritional value as well as deliver on delicious taste,” says Parker Brody, senior global category merchant for plant-based at Whole Foods Market. “Banana blossoms are a soy-free, gluten-free alternative to fish that literally grows on trees.” Brody notes bananas contain 0 grams fat and 0 grams cholesterol. Similar to the actual banana fruit, the blossoms also contain vitamins (A, C, and E), minerals (iron, magnesium, and potassium), and fiber. Studies also revealed banana blossoms contain antioxidants.
