Click to rate this post!
[Total: 2 Average: 5]
Banana Blossom Tacos
Banana Blossom Tacos are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy plant-based tacos without compromising on flavor or texture. The banana blossoms, with their tender, flaky consistency, are marinated, battered, and fried to crispy perfection, making them the ideal stand-in for fish in these tacos. Paired with fresh slaw, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing, these tacos are a delicious, gluten-free option that’s sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Cutting Board.
- Chef’s Knife
- Deep Fryer or Large Skillet
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Serving Platter
Ingredients
Banana Blossom Tacos
- 2 cups banana blossoms drained and sliced into strips
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup sparkling water or more as needed
- Vegetable oil for frying
Marinade
- ¼ cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Juice of 1 lime
Toppings
- Gluten-free tortillas corn tortillas work best
- Shredded cabbage or slaw mix
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Vegan sour cream or yogurt optional
- Pickled red onions optional
Instructions
Prepare the Banana Blossoms
- Marinate the Banana Blossoms: Start by draining and rinsing the banana blossoms. Pat them dry with paper towels and slice them into strips. In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and lime juice. Add the banana blossom strips to the marinade, tossing to coat them evenly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Batter: While the banana blossoms marinate, prepare the batter. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add the sparkling water, whisking continuously, until the batter is smooth and slightly thick. The sparkling water helps create a light, crispy coating when frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the banana blossoms. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
Fry the Banana Blossoms
- Coat the Banana Blossoms: Once the oil is hot, dip each marinated banana blossom strip into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before carefully placing the strips into the hot oil.
- Fry Until Golden: Fry the banana blossoms in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each strip for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn the strips as they cook.
- Drain the Excess Oil: Once fried, transfer the banana blossoms to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. The result should be crispy, golden strips that resemble fried fish in texture.
Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the gluten-free tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until warm and pliable. You can also warm them in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15-20 seconds.
- Add the Fillings: To assemble the tacos, place a few strips of fried banana blossom in the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage or slaw mix, slices of avocado, fresh cilantro leaves, and any other desired toppings.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of freshness. You can also add a dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt and pickled red onions for added flavor.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Banana Blossom Tacos
- Choose the Right Banana Blossoms: Canned banana blossoms are widely available in Asian grocery stores. Make sure to rinse them well and drain thoroughly to remove any excess brine.
- Use Sparkling Water: The sparkling water in the batter adds lightness, creating a crispy coating that mimics the texture of fried fish. If you don’t have sparkling water, you can use regular water, but the result may be less crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, ensure the banana blossoms have enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, greasy strips.
- Make Ahead Option: You can marinate the banana blossoms up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use. This allows the flavors to fully develop.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the tacos immediately after assembling. The crispy banana blossoms can lose their crunch if left to sit too long.