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View Full Version : Zebrina Rojo, edible leaves?


greatnorthernbanana
08-03-2017, 03:38 PM
Hello! I have had this Musa sumatrana 'Zebrina Rojo' Blood Banana for about four years now. It's strictly an indoor plant outside of summer because I live in Michigan (zone 5), so I doubt if it'll ever even flower. I'm aware that the fruits are up for debate if they are edible or not, but my question isn't about the fruits.

I'm actually just curious about the leaves. Banana leaves are used in a lot of food preparation of recipes that I would like to try, I'm just curious whether or not it's safe to do so with this variety? The recipes I'm interested in usually have them as wrappers, most of all tamales. So just curious about that.

Thanks!

Gabe15
08-04-2017, 12:29 AM
Any banana leaves are fine to use, they vary in their size and thickness so some avrieties tend work better than others, but all are safe. Especially with an indoor plant, you may have thinner weaker leaves, so be careful with them. Make sure to give them a quick steam beforehand using, it will help them to be soft and flexible and less likely to rip, sometimes and even just holding them over steam is enough.

greatnorthernbanana
08-04-2017, 12:37 AM
Thank you! I will definitely give it a shot then here in the next couple of weeks when I have the time! :)

Darkman
08-04-2017, 01:17 PM
To be clear, are we speaking of using the leaves as a cooking vessel but NOT EATING THE LEAVES! Right?

greatnorthernbanana
08-05-2017, 12:41 AM
To be clear, are we speaking of using the leaves as a cooking vessel but NOT EATING THE LEAVES! Right?

Yes! I would be using them as a tamale wrapper, so just like you don't eat the corn husks in that version of the recipe, the banana leaves are treated in the same manner. They just serve as a wrapper, and a means to steam the masa and all that inside, not to be eaten themselves! :)

Darkman
08-05-2017, 12:47 AM
I have also heard of cooking pork and fish wrapped in the leaves. I do know there care recipes for the flower petals!

greatnorthernbanana
08-05-2017, 12:51 AM
I have also heard of cooking pork and fish wrapped in the leaves. I do know there care recipes for the flower petals!

I'd love to try that, too. There are a lot of recipes with the leaves and the blossoms, but unfortunately I live in an area where they're more than likely never going to get the chance to blossom. My personal plants, I mean! Someone up here probably has a great set up, but not me!

cincinnana
08-05-2017, 08:17 PM
Awesome post...:woohoonaner:
I have used leaves with fish and have given some to friends to cook with.
The multi colored leaves make a good presentation....There is a front side and a backside to the leaf, each with its own color.