Exquisite Vegan Filipino Snack: Coconut-Stuffed Banana Leaves Delight
Experience a tropical getaway with this vegan Filipino snack, Coconut-Stuffed Banana Leaves Delight. This exotic appetizer is packed with flavors and textures that will transport you to the Philippines while satisfying your cravings for something delicious and healthy.
Allergens
Tree Nuts (Cashews)
Ingredients
- 10 large, ripe bananas
- 3 cups shredded young coconut meat
- 1 cup grated jicama
- 1/2 cup diced pineapple
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup finely chopped cashews
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 10 large banana leaves, cleaned and blanched
- 8 wooden skewers
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded young coconut meat, grated jicama, diced pineapple, raisins, chopped cashews, sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix well to incorporate all flavors.
- Peel the bananas and cut them in half lengthwise without separating the halves. Remove a small slice from the curved end of each half banana to create a stable base for skewering.
- Carefully thread each half banana onto a wooden skewer, making sure not to pierce through the banana itself but only through the hollowed out ends.
- Preheat your oven's broiler to high heat. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean up.
- Holding each banana half by its skewered end, stuff the fruit with the coconut mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Place the stuffed bananas on the prepared baking sheet and broil for 3 4 minutes, or until the coconut mixture is lightly toasted and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- While the bananas are broiling, blanch the banana leaves in boiling water for 1 2 minutes, then immediately submerge them in ice water to halt the cooking process. Pat them dry with a clean cloth.
- Remove the bananas from the oven and let them cool slightly before carefully wrapping each one individually in a blanched banana leaf. Twist the ends of the leaves to secure them in place.
- Serve your Vegan Filipino Coconut Stuffed Banana Leaves Delight immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of coconut cream for added elegance.
Chef’s Insight
Choose ripe but firm bananas for optimal texture. Blanching the leaves imparts a subtle herbal note.
Notes
Adjust broiling time for desired level of doneness; individual ovens may vary.