Simple Banana Stem & Ginger Soup
A light and detoxifying soup featuring the unique texture of banana stem, brightened by fresh ginger and a hint of turmeric. It's a warming, digestive-friendly starter perfect for a healthy meal.
For 4 servings
Prepare the banana stem: Peel the outer fibrous layers of the banana stem until you reach the tender, whitish core. Slice it into rounds, then chop into 1-inch pieces. Immediately immerse the chopped pieces in water with a pinch of turmeric or a few drops of lemon juice to prevent discoloration.
Sauté aromatics: In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped ginger and garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Cook the banana stem: Drain the chopped banana stem and add it to the pot along with the turmeric powder and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the banana stem is very tender.
Blend the soup: Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer the contents to a blender. Blend until completely smooth. For an extra silky texture, you can strain the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve back into the pot, pressing down on the solids to extract all liquid.
Season and simmer: Return the blended (or strained) soup to the pot over medium-low heat. Stir in the salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If using, add the fresh lemon or lime juice now.
Serve: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish and enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choosing Banana Stem: Look for firm, fresh banana stems without any discoloration or soft spots. The inner core should be pale and crisp.
- 2Preventing Discoloration: Banana stem oxidizes quickly. After chopping, immediately place it in water with a tiny bit of turmeric or lemon juice to maintain its color.
- 3Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more hot water or vegetable broth during the final simmering stage. For a thicker consistency, reduce the liquid slightly during blending or simmer longer.
- 4Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of roasted cumin powder or a tiny amount of asafoetida (hing) to the oil when sautéing the aromatics.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
To make it a more substantial meal, add 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken, 1/2 cup cooked lentils (like red or yellow lentils), or 1/4 cup soaked and cooked quinoa to the soup during the final simmering stage.
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
Incorporate other detox-friendly vegetables like chopped carrots, spinach, or zucchini. Add them along with the banana stem in step 3, adjusting cooking time as needed until tender.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For those who enjoy more heat, add a finely chopped green chili or a pinch of red chili flakes along with the ginger and garlic.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Banana stem is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in weight management by providing a feeling of fullness.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Ginger and turmeric are potent anti-inflammatory agents, known for their ability to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and support overall immune function.
Detoxifying and Diuretic
Banana stem is traditionally known for its diuretic properties, helping to flush out toxins from the body and support kidney function, making this soup an ideal detox meal.
Frequently asked questions
Banana stem has a very mild, slightly tangy, and subtly sweet flavor with a crisp, fibrous texture when raw. When cooked and blended into a soup, it becomes very neutral, allowing the flavors of ginger, garlic, and spices to shine through, while providing a unique body to the soup.
