Banana Blossom and Fish Curry
A fragrant and mildly spiced curry featuring tender pieces of white fish cooked with the delicate flavor of banana blossoms, simmered in a creamy coconut milk base. This dish highlights the versatile use of banana blossoms in PNG cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g White fish fillets(such as snapper or barramundi, cut into chunks)
- 2 medium Banana blossoms(outer leaves removed, inner tender parts thinly sliced)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Cumin powder
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- a handful Fresh coriander(chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp Lime juice(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the banana blossoms: Remove the tough outer leaves. Slice the inner, tender parts thinly. To prevent browning, soak the sliced blossoms in acidulated water (water with a squeeze of lime or a splash of vinegar) while you prepare the other ingredients.
💡 Tip: Ensure you use the tender inner parts of the banana blossom, as the outer parts can be tough. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a pot or deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the turmeric, coriander, and cumin powders. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 4
Drain the banana blossoms and add them to the pot. Stir well to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 5
Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the banana blossoms to soften.
- 6
Gently add the fish pieces to the curry. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the fish.
- 7
Stir in the lime juice (if using) and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If banana blossoms are difficult to find, you can substitute with thinly sliced hearts of palm or even firm tofu.
- ✓For a spicier curry, add a sliced green chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or green beans.
- Use prawns or chicken instead of white fish.
- A tablespoon of tomato paste can be added for a richer color and flavor.