Ever tried banana blossoms? Known as Kele Ka Phool in India, they’re not just pretty to look at—they’re packed with nutrition and loaded with flavor. Perfect for adding a little something extra to your meals!
A traditional delicacy in many regions, banana blossom sabzi is a hidden wonder in the world of Indian cooking. With its incredible nutritional value and mouthwatering recipes, here’s why you need this versatile flower in your kitchen ASAP!
Banana blossoms might look exotic, but they are nutritional powerhouses packed with health-boosting goodness. In just 100 grams, they provide 51 calories, 1.6 grams of protein, 0.6 grams of fat, 9.9 grams of carbohydrates, and an impressive 5.7 grams of fibre. They’re also an excellent source of iron (56.4 mg) and magnesium (48.7 mg), along with essential antioxidants and vitamins like C and E. Additionally, banana blossoms are rich in potassium and calcium, making them a fantastic choice for promoting overall well-being while adding a unique touch to your meals.
Banana blossoms are more than just pretty faces—they come with a long list of health benefits that make them a must-add to your plate!
Heart-Healthy Hero: Rich in flavonoids and fibre, banana blossoms help reduce bad cholesterol while keeping your ticker in tip-top shape.
The Gut’s Best Friend: High in dietary fibre, they’re great for digestion and help maintain a healthy gut.
Diabetes Defence: With their low glycaemic index, banana blossoms are ideal for keeping blood sugar levels in check.
Immunity Booster: Rich in antioxidants, banana blossoms protect your body from free radicals, helping you stay energised and illness-free.
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Strong Bones, Stronger You: Packed with calcium and magnesium, banana blossoms help keep your bones healthy and strong.
Banana blossoms might seem a bit tricky to cook with at first, but they’re super versatile. With their nutty, slightly floral taste, they go amazingly well with Indian spices, making them a real treat for your taste buds.
Banana Blossom Stir-Fry: Just sauté finely chopped banana blossoms with mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chillies, and coconut for a fragrant, light dish that’s perfect with rice or chapati.
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Blossom Fritters (Pakoras): A favourite in many households, dip shredded banana blossoms in a spiced gram flour batter and deep-fry until golden. Crunchy, crispy, and oh-so-delicious!
Blossom Dal: Try adding boiled banana blossoms to your daily dal with some garlic and tomatoes – it’s a simple way to give your comfort food a hearty, flavorful twist!
Blossom Cutlets: Mix chopped banana blossoms with mashed potatoes, spices, and breadcrumbs. Shape into patties and shallow fry for a snack that’ll leave you asking for more!
Blossom Sabzi: Slow-cook banana blossoms with onions, garlic, and a splash of tamarind for a tangy sabzi that’ll make your taste buds sing.
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We’re not saying you should cook banana blossoms every day – save them for special occasions or holidays because, let’s be real, peeling them can be a bit of a chore! But if you’re lucky, you might find pre-peeled ones online or at the supermarket. If you're doing it yourself, just peel off the outer layers, chop the inner flower finely, and soak it in water with a bit of lemon or buttermilk to keep it from browning.
While banana blossoms are packed with health benefits, moderation is key. Too much can sometimes lead to bloating or mild stomach discomfort.
Banana blossoms are more than just food—they’re a fun cooking experience! Whether you’re adding them to a sabzi, making a snack, or stirring them into a curry, they bring great flavor and nutrition to your meals. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!
