Banana leaf

Feuille de bananier

What it is

The leaf is not eaten — it is the vessel, and under steam it gives what it wraps a faint green-tea, hay-like note that no other wrapper leaves behind. Sold in folded sheets, fresh or frozen, it has done this work from Kerala to Oaxaca for far longer than foil has existed.

In the kitchen

Pass it over a flame or through boiling water for a few seconds until it darkens and goes limp — unwilted, it splits along the ribs the moment you fold it. Cut out the thick central rib and wrap with the glossy side against the food.

Goes with

Coconut milk Turmeric Lemongrass Rice Fish sauce Chili pepper Lime Pork

Same species

Banana Banana blossom

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