5 Must-try Appetising Flower-Based Savoury Delicacies from the Corners of India!

Indian culinary culture is as vast and diverse. According to a survey, Indians have more than 800 ways of preparing a potato! Astonishing right? Similarly, in many parts of India, flowers are considered a savoury delicacy. In states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Odisha and Kerala, flowers are consumed regularly and are a part of their staple diet.

From a tangy and spicy preparation of Gulmohar to a hot plate of Pumpkin flower pakoras, indulge in a gastronomic experience, as in this article, we discover unique ways of incorporating traditional flower recipes in our everyday lives. 

Banana Blossom 

Banana is a staple in every Indian household and is prepared in a variety of ways. May it be a late-night binge-snack like Banana chips or a crispy plate of Kelyachi Kappa, or a raw Banana vegetable curry, it is loved by many across India. Yet, being a popular preparation in various parts of the country, very few know of this delicious savoury preparation of Banana blossom. Yes, you read that right, a flower as a savoury delicacy? As odd as it sounds, in many parts of Konkan in Maharashtra, Banana Blossom or ‘Kelfulachi Bhaaji’ is a culinary delight prepared almost every day.

Many might not know this, but the mighty banana is the tallest herb, and the banana blossom has ample medicinal properties. It is also known as a superfood, as it acts as a remedy for various ailments. It boosts iron levels, improves skin and hair health, controls diabetes, supports menstrual wellness and also aids weight loss. One can find a variety of ways to prepare this mouthwatering delicacy, but in Konkan, it is usually prepared with a regular tempering and garnished with freshly grated coconut and a generous amount of coriander leaves.

Moringa Flowers

If you’re wondering what to prepare for dinner next, then this appetising recipe made with Moringa flowers will wow you. Though not a popular preparation, Moringa flowers are an underrated savoury delicacy prepared in India. Primarily consumed in Goa, Odisha, West Bengal and southern states of India, this white flower is known for its health benefits. Many times, the flower is used as a marinade by grinding it into a coarse paste or even sautéed and tempered as a curry.

Almost every part of the drumstick plant is edible, as Moringa flowers are rich in antioxidants, Vitamin A and Vitamin C. It helps tame inflammation, aids heart health and controls diseases like diabetes. People suffering from diabetes are usually prescribed to consume Morniga powder or flowers. Offering a mildly subtle sweet flavour, one should consume Moringa flowers at least once every two weeks to boost their health. If you’re open to experimenting, then try out this Morniga flower recipe and tantalise your taste buds. 

Hibiscus Flower

What if I tell you, a flowering plant that you grow in your garden can be eaten and has multiple health benefits, shocked right? Well, the hibiscus flower is one of these. India is known for its cultural diversity, and with that also comes culinary diversity. While in some places, a hibiscus plant is kept as an attraction, it is also eaten! This flower comes in a variety of colours and is consumed in many parts of India. Specifically in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya and Assam.

In Uttar Pradesh, these flowers are boiled and eaten as a vegetable with a regular tempering of ginger, garlic and chilli. In Manipur, locally known as “Anthuk”, it is paired with a meat preparation of either pork or fish. In Meghalaya, too, it is consumed similarly, but the leaves are dried and used as a garnish in stews. Other than savoury delicacies, hibiscus flowers are used in teas, sherbets, or even in a few milk-based drinks. It is known to have many medicinal properties and also aids blood flow, supports heart health, relieves menstrual cramps and is also a good source of antioxidants. If you’re a foodie, try out this unusual yet popular savoury flower delicacy.

Gulmohar Flower

In every corner of India during spring, you’ll find a bright red or orange flower blooming. When Gulmohar blooms, it's a sight for sore eyes. For those who live in the cities and don't get to experience the season of spring, the blooming of Gulmohar is a glimpse of spring. Other than the sweet nectar devoured by birds and insects, humans, too, are huge fans of this fiery red flower.

Usually consumed in the northern region of India, these flowers have a distinct, tangy yet sweet taste. Though the tree is not native to India, brought from Mauritius in the 1800s, it is called as the flame of the flowers and is found everywhere in India. It is widely known for its medicinal properties. It is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and has an abundance of antioxidants. The petals are used to prepare a curry of a vegetable with onions, tomatoes, loads of coriander and the regular tempering of spices. The next time you spot a Gulmohar tree, pluck a few flowers are try this absurd yet unique mouthwatering delicacy! 

Pumpkin Flower

Pumpkin flowers might look extremely beautiful to consume, but are known for their range of health benefits. As odd as it sounds, pumpkin flowers are usually consumed in Bihar, West Bengal, Kerala and Odisha and even in a few areas of Maharashtra. In Bengali culture, Phooler Bora or Pumpkin Flower pakoras are a popular snack paired with green mint and chilli chutney. Pumpkin flowers are added to salads to add texture and a sweet aroma to the dish. They are also popularly used as a condiment in soups or can be prepared as a stir-fry with other vegetables.

An unpopular dish prepared in many parts of India is pumpkin flower fritters. The delicate yellow petals are plucked gently so they do not break. After washing them neatly, they are dipped in a batter of besan or gram flour with spices and masalas added to enhance the flavour. Later, these petals are shallow or deep-fried.

Pumpkin flowers have various nutritional benefits. It is proven to cure cardiovascular diseases, anaemia, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal diseases and many others. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a hot steaming plate of pakoras, give these pumpkin flower pakoras a try!