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• A natural substitute: banana leaves

Finding new ways of preparing and serving food is often considered the past time of foodies, those people who love to learn about, and of course eat food. One of their many secrets is the use of banana leaves during preparation. As suggested by the name, banana leaves are the leaves of the banana plant. Banana leaves are traditionally used by Hindu’s and Buddhist’s for special ceremonies, but have come to be used as a cooking tool.

Though their uses are multiple, banana leaves are typically used to enhance flavor and plate. They are used in such a way as tin foil or parchment paper, as they are large enough to be used for wrapping and cooking food or lying flat to cover an entire platter. They can be used in barbecuing, baking, or steaming as they hold food together. Banana leaves are not hard to find, but are easiest to come across in Asian supermarkets. When cooking with banana leaves they must be washed and dried before use. Gently rubbing the inside of the leaf with oil is advised before filling it with fish, vegetables or other easy to cook foods. To keep secure, fasten with a toothpick after folding. If used as plate decoration, holding them over heat for a few minutes turns the leaves a brighter green, making them more aesthetically pleasing.