Kerabu Jantung Pisang (Malaysian Banana Flower Salad)
Kerabu Jantung Pisang (Malaysian Banana Flower Salad) is a refreshing, tangy salad made with finely sliced banana flower, shallots, chilies, lemongrass, toasted coconut, and lime juice. The banana flower is first soaked in lime water to reduce bitterness, then tossed with aromatics and optional belacan for extra flavor. This salad goes great with steamed rice, grilled fish, or as part of a nasi ulam-style spread. It’s typically served as a side dish with rice and grilled dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 banana flower (jantung pisang), finely sliced
- 1 cup coconut milk (optional, for richness)
- 2 Juice of 2 limes (or to taste)
- 1 Shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 Lemongrass (1 stalk - white part only), finely chopped
- 1 tsp Belacan (shrimp paste) toasted – optional but authentic
- 2 tbsp grated coconut (toasted lightly)
- 1/4 tsp salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced torch ginger flower (bunga kantan) or some finely sliced kaffir lime leaves for extra aroma
- Fresh herbs like Vietnamese mint (daun kesum) or mint leavest
Instructions
- Prepare the banana flower: Remove the tough outer petals, take the inner florets, and remove the hard pistil and scale. Thinly slice the florets and soak them in a bowl of water mixed with lime juice or vinegar to prevent browning and reduce bitterness. Let sit for 15–20 minutes, then drain well.
- Toast grated coconut (if using): Lightly toast it in a dry pan until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained banana flower slices, shallots, chilies, lemongrass, and herbs.
- Add toasted coconut and belacan (if using).
- Drizzle in lime juice, a little coconut milk if using, and season with salt and sugar to balance the tang.
- Toss everything gently but thoroughly.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so the flavors mingle beautifully.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120-150 kcal
- Fat: 9-11 g
- Protein: 2-3 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12 g
- Protein: 2-3 g
NOTES:
The coconut milk and toasted coconut contribute most of the fat and calories. If you omit coconut milk, the calories drop closer to approxiamtely 90–100 kcal per serving. Banana flower is naturally low in calories and high in fiber, iron, and antioxidants.