Recipe: Mochar Ghanto

re: banana flowers

Mochar Ghanto

Mochas, banana blossoms, are a challenge to the uninitiated. Keep your palms oiled for easy handling; take the leaves off, chop them one at a time, and soak them in water.

1 1/2 tbl vegetable oil
1/4 tsp 5-spice
1 tbl peeled fresh ginger, grated or made into a paste
1 tsp seeded and chopped fresh green chili
1/2 tsp turmeric
10 oz banana blossoms, finely chopped
1/8 tsp salt
3 tbl water
2 tbl dried flaked or shredded sweetened coconut, ground in a blender
to a coarse powder, or
freshly grated or shredded coconut mixed with 1/2 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp garam masala

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Fry 5-spice for a few seconds until it starts to pop. Add ginger, green chili, and turmeric and stir several times. Add banana blossoms, salt, andwater. Bring to a boil, then lower heat slightly and simmer, covered, 12 to 15 minutes. Stir in coconut. Remove from heat. Blend in garam masala. Let stand covered for 15 minutes to help develop the flavors. Serve piping hot. 4 servings.

You'll find info at this site
http://homecooking.about.com/home/homecooking/library/weekly/aa052598.htm?iam=ma