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Banana Blossom (Banana Bud) Kilawin

Yields1 ServingPrep Time30 minsCook Time40 minsTotal Time1 hr 10 mins

A Filipino recipe involving banana blossoms, is considered as a vegetable dish wherein the blossoms are sauteed with garlic and onion and cooked in vinegar.

 2 Large banana blossoms (banana buds)
 1 tbsp Olive oil
 1 Small Onion, peeled and sliced thinly
 23 Cloves garlic, peeled and minced
 8 oz Pack of tempeh, sliced into strips
 1 tbsp Vegan fish sauce
 ½ cup Water
 2 Thai Chili peppers, chopped
 ¼ cup Vinegar
 Salt and pepper to taste
1

Peel and discard the outer, fibrous skin layers of banana blossoms until you reach the lighter, softer core. Trim off stem and discard. Cut banana core into half and slice thinly. In a bowl of cold salted water, place shredded banana and soak for about 15 to 20 minutes. Using hands, squeeze to release bitter sap. Rinse with cold water and drain well, discarding liquid.

2

In pan over medium heat, heat oil. Add onions and garlic and cook until limp and aromatic. Add tempeh and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Add chili. Add vegan fish sauce and continue to cook for about 1 minute.

3

Add banana. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until softened and releases liquid. Add water. Continue to cook for about 10 to 15 minutes or until tender.

4

Add vinegar and bring to a boil, uncovered and without stirring, for about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir to combine and continue to cook for another 8 to 10 minutes or until liquid is reduced and tempeh and vegetable are cooked. Serve hot.