vazhaipoo
Also known as:
Loading...
Also known as:
Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central
A traditional South Indian stir-fry made from banana flower, tempered with spices and finished with fresh coconut. This wholesome and fibrous dish is a classic side for rice and sambar.
A classic Tamil dish where crispy, savory banana flower and lentil fritters are dunked into a tangy, spicy tamarind gravy. The vadas soak up the flavorful kuzhambu, creating a wonderfully unique texture and taste.
Crispy, savory fritters made from banana blossom and chana dal. This traditional South Indian snack is packed with flavor from fennel, onion, and spices, perfect with a cup of chai.
Yes, vazhaipoo (banana flower) is highly nutritious and low in calories, providing only 27 calories per 100g. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like iron and potassium, which support overall heart and digestive health.
Vazhaipoo is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids that combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Its high fiber content aids digestion and blood sugar management, while its mineral profile helps prevent anemia and supports heart health.
Yes, vazhaipoo is very effective for weight loss because it is low in fat and calories. The high dietary fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness (satiety), which helps reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day.
Vazhaipoo is considered keto-friendly as it contains only 5.7g of carbohydrates per 100g. Because much of this carbohydrate content is fiber, the net carb count is very low, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
Yes, vazhaipoo is a natural plant-based ingredient that is both vegan and gluten-free. It is often used in vegetarian and vegan cooking as a nutritious meat substitute due to its unique, flaky texture.
To prepare vazhaipoo, remove the purple outer bracts to reach the florets. You must remove the hard, matchstick-like stamen and the translucent scale from each floret, then soak them in diluted buttermilk or lemon water to prevent browning and reduce bitterness.
Vazhaipoo has a mild, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor with a subtle hint of bitterness. Its texture is crunchy and layered, often compared to artichoke hearts or hearts of palm when cooked.
vazhaipoo is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 27 calories per 100g and 1.6 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
Explore more ingredients in the vegetable category with complete nutrition information.
View all vegetable →While the tender, white inner heart of the banana flower can be eaten raw in salads, the florets are generally too bitter and fibrous to consume without cooking. Most traditional recipes involve steaming, sautéing, or frying to improve texture and flavor.
Fresh, whole vazhaipoo should be wrapped in a damp cloth or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Once cleaned and chopped, it should be kept submerged in acidic water and used within 24 hours to maintain freshness.
In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, vazhaipoo is used to treat excessive menstrual bleeding and reduce period pain. It is believed to help balance hormones, particularly progesterone, and is often cooked with curd for these specific health benefits.