Discover a surprisingly delicious and easy Thai recipe that transforms humble banana blossoms and canned fish into a vibrant and flavorful stir-fry. This dish, a testament to Thai cuisine's resourceful use of ingredients, offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. The slightly sweet and delicate banana blossom perfectly complements the savory richness of the canned fish, all brought together with a fragrant blend of Thai spices and herbs. It’s a quick and budget-friendly meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, making it accessible to home cooks of all levels. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times – this stir-fry comes together effortlessly. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this simple yet extraordinary Thai delicacy together.
Tools Needed
- wok or pan
- knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
- Banana blossom
- Tamarind
- Lime or lemon juice
- Garlic: 5 cloves
- Chili
- Sugar
- Soy sauce
- White soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Canned fish: 1 can or more
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Banana Blossoms
- Dissolve tamarind in water. Prepare this for soaking banana blossoms to prevent them from turning black. If you have lime, use it instead.
- Use only the soft part of the banana blossom, discarding the old shell. Cut off the center and chop into small pieces for better flavor.
- Soak the chopped banana blossom in tamarind water and knead gently to allow the juice to absorb.
- Chop garlic and chili. Finely chop the garlic and adjust the chili amount to your preferred spiciness.
Step 2. Stir-fry Aromatics and Banana Blossoms
- Heat oil in a wok or pan. Add chili and garlic, stir-frying until fragrant.
- Add the banana blossom and season with sugar, soy sauce, white soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Stir-fry until the banana blossom is cooked.
Step 3. Add Canned Fish and Season
- Add the canned fish (shredded) and stir-fry briefly. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Use lime or lemon juice if you don't have tamarind to prevent the banana blossom from turning black.
- Larger pieces of banana blossom will be more flavorful when stir-fried.
- Don't overcook the banana blossom or the fish.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 25-35g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of canned fish?
Yes! Sardines, mackerel, or tuna all work well. Just drain them well before adding them to the stir-fry.
2. What if I don't have fresh banana blossoms?
Unfortunately, frozen banana blossoms don't work as well in this recipe. Fresh blossoms are best for their texture and flavor.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more chilies! Start with a small amount and add more to your taste. You can also use a spicier chili paste.
This simple stir-fry proves that delicious and authentic Thai food doesn't require hours in the kitchen or a pantry full of exotic ingredients. Enjoy the satisfying blend of textures and flavors—a testament to the resourceful creativity of Thai cuisine. We hope you enjoyed making and savoring this easy and flavorful dish!