How is Banana Blossom used in Thai cooking?

Banana blossom is the deep-purple, teardrop flower that hangs at the end of a banana cluster. Peel back the tough outer bracts and the pale heart inside is tender enough to eat raw or cook. For the Akha it carries real weight: it's traditionally cooked for women during and after pregnancy, becoming one of their main foods through that time. In the kitchen its firm, flaky texture also makes it a favourite stand-in for fish in vegan dishes. We slice it thin and keep it in acidulated water, since the cut flower browns quickly.

Can I cook with Banana Blossom in a Chiang Mai cooking class?

Yes - we use Banana Blossom in our hands-on classes. Explore them on our Cooking Classes page.

Banana Blossom - Fresh Thai Vegetables | Thai Akha Kitchen

Banana blossom is the deep-purple, teardrop flower that hangs at the end of a banana cluster. Peel back the tough outer bracts and the pale heart inside…

Banana Blossom - Fresh Thai Vegetables | Thai Akha Kitchen Banana blossom is the deep-purple, teardrop flower that hangs at the end of a banana cluster. Peel back the tough outer bracts and the pale heart inside…