Banana Blossom Atical Recipe

Banana blossom, also known as banana heart or banana flower, is a large, purple-skinned flower that grows at the end of a cluster of bananas on a banana plant. It is commonly used as a vegetable in many Southeast Asian cuisines and is known for its unique flavor and texture. Here's a basic recipe for cooking banana blossom, known as "atical":

Ingredients:

1 banana blossom
2 tablespoons oil (preferably vegetable or coconut oil)
1 onion, finely chopped
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust according to your spice preference)
Salt to taste
Water for boiling
Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:

Start by preparing the banana blossom. Remove the outer purple layers until you reach the tender, cream-colored part. Discard any tough or fibrous layers. Cut off the tip of the banana blossom and slice it thinly. Place the sliced banana blossom in a bowl of water mixed with lemon juice to prevent discoloration.

In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the sliced banana blossom. Boil for about 10-15 minutes or until the banana blossom becomes tender. Drain and set aside.

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Add the boiled banana blossom to the pan and mix well with the onion and garlic.

Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, chili powder, and salt to the pan. Stir everything together until the banana blossom is coated with the spices. Cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the banana blossom cook for another 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Once the banana blossom is tender and well-cooked, remove it from the heat.

Serve the banana blossom atical as a side dish with rice or as a filling in wraps or sandwiches.

Please note that this recipe is a basic guideline, and you can adjust the spices and seasonings according to your taste preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables or protein sources like tofu or shrimp to make it a more substantial dish. Enjoy your banana blossom atical