Banana blossom is a game-changer in the world of vegan cuisine, especially for those craving the flaky texture of fish without any of the seafood. Much like jackfruit, banana blossom absorbs flavours wonderfully, making it a versatile ingredient in plant-based cooking. This flower, which grows at the end of a banana bunch, has a delicate, flaky texture reminiscent of fish, making it a perfect substitute for creating vegan “fish” and chips.

Inspired by my Indian heritage, I’ve crafted my own vegan twist on the traditional Amritsari Fish and Chips by using banana blossom. This dish is not just a homage to the classic British comfort food, but it also brings in a twist of spice, making it an exciting fusion meal.

I would love to hear your comments and see photo’s of your own creation, so please share in the comments below, or on my Facebook page.

Ingredients

For the Banana Blossom Marinade

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Vegan Fish and Batter:

• 2 cans of banana blossom
• Rice paper sheets
• ¾ cup plain flour
• ¼ cup corn starch
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp Seaweed Flakes (check that these are vegan)
• 200ml sparking water
• 2 tsp olive oil
• Rice Paper sheets

For the Triple Cooked Chips:

• 4 large potatoes
• Salt to taste

For the Crushed Minted Peas:

• 2 cups frozen Petit Pois
• Mint sauce (optional)
• Salt to taste

For the Homemade Tartar Sauce:

• 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
• 2 tablespoons capers, finely chopped
• 2 large Gherkins, finely chopped

Step 1: Prepare the spices to marinade the Banana Blossom

• Mix the marinade dry spices together and add the juice of the lime – mix well and set aside.

• Drain the banana blossom and rinse well in a sieve. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
• Add the marinate mix to the banana blossom and leave for at least an hour in the fridge (overnight is best) to allow all the flavours to infuse.
• Soak the rice paper in warm water until pliable. Wrap each banana blossom piece in the rice paper to give it an extra layer that mimics fish skin.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and the remaining Spicy Magic Masala Mix.
2. Gradually add sparkling water until you get a smooth, thick batter.

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Blossom

1. Drain the banana blossom and rinse well. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
2. Marinate the banana blossom in a mix of your Spicy Magic Masala Mix for at least an hour.
3. Soak the rice paper in warm water until pliable. Wrap each banana blossom piece in the rice paper to give it an extra layer that mimics fish skin.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and the remaining Spicy Magic Masala Mix.
2. Gradually add sparkling water until you get a smooth, thick batter.

Step 3: Cook the Vegan Fish

1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.
2. Dip the wrapped banana blossom pieces into the batter, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Triple Cooked Chips

1. Peel and cut potatoes into thick chips.
2. Boil the chips in salted water for about 5 minutes until just tender. Drain and let them steam dry.
3. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
4. Spread the chips on a baking tray and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Finally, heat some oil in a deep pan and fry the chips until crispy and golden. Drain and sprinkle with Spicy Magic Masala Mix.

Step 5: Crushed Minted Peas

1. Boil or steam the peas until tender.
2. In a blender, pulse the peas with mint leaves, salt, and pepper until roughly crushed.

Step 6: Homemade Tartar Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix vegan mayo, capers, pickles, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Plating – bring it all together

Serve the golden banana blossom “fish” alongside the triple cooked chips, a generous spoonful of crushed minted peas, and a dollop of homemade tartar sauce. Sprinkle a bit more of the Spicy Magic Masala Mix over the entire plate for an extra kick.

Happy Friday and enjoy this vegan twist on a classic! Share your creations and tag #bananablossom #veganfish #veganfishandchips.