Banana Blossom Salad by Chi2wiceofficial

Ingredients

• 1 large banana blossom
• 1 cup chickpeas, cooked or canned and drained
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 3 shallots, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp shrimp paste
• 2 tbsp garlic oil (or oil infused with fried garlic)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 tsp msg (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Remove the tough outer bracts of the banana blossom until you reach the tender, pale inner core.
2. Slice the banana blossom as thinly as possible using a sharp knife to ensure a delicate texture.
3. Soak the slices in salted water for 10 minutes to remove bitterness and stickiness, then drain thoroughly.
4. Combine the drained banana blossom, chickpeas, tomatoes, and shallots in a large mixing bowl.
5. Add the shrimp paste, garlic oil, MSG, salt, and lime juice to the bowl.
6. Toss the salad thoroughly until well-combined, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.