Banana Flower

Description

Country of origin: India

Banana flowers emerge at the end of a bunch of developing bananas and grow from a thick, fibrous stem. The bud has a tapered, cone-like shape and is somewhat large, sometimes growing up to thirty centimeters in length, but is generally found in smaller sizes in markets. The heart is the most prized portion of the flower and contributes a fleshy, chewy, and crumbling texture when sliced or chopped. The flowers should be tightly closed and feel heavy for their size. Banana flowers have a mild, sweet, vegetal, and faintly floral flavor when young, developing more pungent bitter notes and nutty nuances as they mature. Cooked Banana flowers will create a softer texture, often likened to the consistency of palm hearts or bamboo shoots.