In Filipino cuisine, the heart of the banana—or banana blossom—is an incredible ingredient that offers vegans a wide range of dishes to explore. Known locally as puso ng saging, this blossom is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals and is as versatile as it is nutritious. Here’s how you can use banana hearts in the kitchen and beyond to elevate plant-based cooking.
Why Banana Blossoms are a Perfect Meat Substitute
Banana hearts have a firm yet tender texture that makes them an excellent substitute for meat in many dishes. When shredded or chopped, banana blossoms have a slightly stringy quality, perfect for dishes that traditionally call for shredded meat. They’re mildly flavored, which allows them to take on the taste of spices and seasonings, making them a favorite for vegan adaptations of classic Filipino dishes.
Delicious Vegan Dishes with Banana Hearts
1. Ginataang Puso ng Saging (Banana Blossom in Coconut Milk)
One of the most popular ways to prepare banana hearts is ginataang puso ng saging. The dish involves cooking banana blossoms in creamy coconut milk (gata), seasoned with garlic, onion, and ginger, along with a touch of chili for heat. This dish is comforting and pairs wonderfully with steamed rice. It’s also filling and nutritious, giving you protein, fiber, and healthy fats in a single meal.
2. Vegan Adobo Puso ng Saging
Adobo is a Filipino classic, and banana blossoms can be used to make a delicious vegan version. Simply marinate the banana hearts in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns, then simmer until tender. The banana blossoms soak up the rich adobo flavors, giving you a savory dish that tastes remarkably close to the original.
3. Banana Blossom Lumpiang Shanghai
Banana hearts make an excellent filling for vegan lumpiang shanghai. Shred the banana blossom and mix it with vegetables like carrots, onions, and garlic, and season with soy sauce and pepper. Wrap the filling in lumpia wrappers and fry until golden brown. These crispy spring rolls are perfect for parties or as a snack with a side of sweet chili sauce.
4. Vegan Kilawin with Banana Blossoms
Filipino-style kilawin (a type of ceviche) can also be made using banana blossoms. Slice the blossoms thinly and marinate them in vinegar, ginger, onions, and chili, just as you would with traditional fish-based kilawin. This vegan kilawin is tangy, spicy, and refreshing—a great appetizer or side dish that’s packed with flavor.
Tips for Cooking and Preparing Banana Blossoms
Before cooking banana hearts, it’s essential to prepare them properly:
- Removing the Outer Layers: The outer layers of the blossom are tough and fibrous. Peel these away until you reach the tender, lighter layers inside.
- Soaking in Salt Water: Banana hearts contain a sap that can make them bitter. Slice them and soak them in salt water for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. This step helps eliminate any bitterness and prepares the blossoms for cooking.
- Shredding or Slicing: Depending on the dish, you can slice the banana heart thinly or shred it by hand. Shredded banana blossoms work well in dishes like ginataang puso ng saging, while sliced blossoms are perfect for kilawin.
Beyond The Blossom Food
Apart from their culinary uses, banana hearts have a few other applications that are worth exploring:
- Natural Dye: The deep purple color of banana blossoms can be used to create a natural dye, perfect for eco-conscious Filipinos interested in sustainable fashion or textile crafts.
- Medicinal Uses: In traditional Filipino remedies, banana blossoms are sometimes used to support digestive health and reduce menstrual discomfort. While it’s always important to consult healthcare providers, this natural remedy has been used for generations.
Embracing Filipino Vegan Cuisine with Banana Blossoms
Banana hearts are more than just a plant-based meat substitute—they’re a part of Filipino culinary heritage. By including them in vegan dishes, you’re celebrating Filipino culture and exploring the diverse flavors of the Philippines in a way that’s healthy and eco-friendly.
For those embracing a plant-based lifestyle, banana blossoms offer the chance to enjoy traditional Filipino dishes without sacrificing flavor or culture. With their unique texture, mild taste, and ability to adapt to so many recipes, banana blossoms are truly a vegan-friendly Filipino treasure.