Banana Leaf and its Use in South Asia

 

Banana Leaves are used in cooking, wrapping, and serving food in a wide range of cuisines in tropical and subtropical areas such as India, Indonesia, Srilanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Burma, etc. Many Hindu and Buddhist ceremonies use banana leaves as a decorative which has various symbolic meanings.

Most of the age-old houses in the tropical village, have thatched roofs and fences made of dry banana leaves.

1. South Indians use banana leaves as a serving plate. It is a long-time tradition to eat in a banana leaf and this is customary during festive occasions.
2. As the banana leaves allow the steam to penetrate through, they are used as a mat for steaming, grilling, and barbecue.
3. Due to it's religious significance, these leaves are used for decorating the mandapam and performing religious rituals in the Hindu tradition.
4. In Southern India, during Karthika Deepam festival the lamps which are floated in the rivers are made of banana leaves. This makes it more eco-friendly.
5. Traditionally, the leaves were used in thatching, floor coverings, and woven products.
6. The banana leaf takes the pinnacle at all the proceedings of the temples. The food offered to the deities is placed on these leaves.
7. Almost every Indian house takes pride in owning a banana plant. Their hospitality is highly appreciated when they serve food on the Banana leaves for the guests.
8. Banana leaves are the most economical options to go for. The need to spend those extra bucks on tons of utensils and its cleaning process vanishes for good.
9. Consuming food packed in banana leaves is highly hygienic when compared to other modes of packing.
10.  Most of the restaurants in South India (Kerala, Tamil Nadu) serve their afternoon south Indian meals in banana leaves which is highly appreciated by the customers.

Banana leaves are loaded with nutrients we bet you didn't know about!!!

Food when served on banana leaves gets enriched with several nutrients that we would otherwise miss on. Banana leaves contain large amounts of polyphenols that are natural antioxidants. These are found in many plant-based foods and green tea. Food served on the banana leaves absorbs the polyphenols which are said to prevent many lifestyle diseases. They are also said to have anti-bacterial properties that can possibly kill the germs in food. Finally, even when discarded it's a good feed for cattle or its biodegradable nature makes it acceptable by Mother Nature.