foto: Facebook/nhurul.qamariah
Brilio.net - Banana leaves are often used as traditional food wrappers because of their distinctive aroma and good durability. However, fresh banana leaves tend to be stiff and easily torn when folded or shaped. Usually, banana leaves are dried in the sun to make them more flexible. But what if it's cloudy or you need banana leaves quickly?
It turns out, there is a practical way to make banana leaves flexible without having to dry them in the sun. One method that is widely shared by social media users, including Facebook Nhurul Qamariah, is to pour hot water on the banana leaves. This method can make the leaves more flexible in a short time and ready to use immediately. Check out the full explanation below!
How to Soften Banana Leaves with Hot WaterThis method of pouring hot water is very easy and does not require special tools. Here are the steps you can try:
Materials Needed:
- Fresh banana leaves to taste
- Hot water (not boiling, just around 80C-90C)
- Large basin or pan
- Clean cloth to dry
How to Make Banana Leaves Flexible:
1. Prepare banana leaves
How to stretch banana leaves without drying them
photo: Facebook/nhurul.qamariah
- Choose banana leaves that are still fresh and not too old. Make sure the surface is clean from dirt or small insects.
2. Heat the water
How to stretch banana leaves without drying them
photo: Facebook/nhurul.qamariah
- Boil the water, then let it sit for a moment until the temperature drops a little so that it is not too extreme.
3. Pour hot water over the banana leaves
How to stretch banana leaves without drying them
photo: Facebook/nhurul.qamariah
- Place the banana leaves on a flat surface or in a large bowl. Pour hot water evenly over the entire surface of the leaves.
4. Let stand for a few seconds
How to stretch banana leaves without drying them
photo: Facebook/nhurul.qamariah
- Let the leaves absorb the heat for about 10-15 seconds to soften the fibers.
5. Dry and ready to use
How to stretch banana leaves without drying them
photo: Facebook/nhurul.qamariah
- Remove the banana leaves, dry with a clean cloth, then use as needed.
Benefits of This Method Compared to SunbathingThis method of pouring hot water is faster and more practical than the traditional method of sun drying. Here are some of its advantages:
- Quick ready to use
No need to wait for hours like when drying in the sun.
- Suitable for cloudy weather conditions or night time
Not dependent on sunlight.
- Reduces the risk of leaves becoming too dry
Sometimes, banana leaves that are dried in the sun can become brittle if exposed to the heat of the sun for too long.
- The aroma remains natural
There is no change in aroma like when exposed to the sun for too long.
To make banana leaves easier to use and keep the wrapped food safe, try the following tips:
1. Grill on low heat
If you don't want to use hot water, you can also heat the banana leaves briefly over low heat. Move the leaves over the flame of the stove for a few seconds until they become slightly shiny.
2. Save it the Right Way
If you want to store banana leaves for several days, wrap them in a damp cloth and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
3. Use a sharp knife when cutting
Even flexible banana leaves can still tear if cut with a blunt knife. Use a sharp knife for neater cuts.
In this way, banana leaves can be immediately flexible and ready to use without having to be dried in the sun. So, whenever you need banana leaves to wrap food, you don't need to worry if the weather is cloudy or you are in a hurry. Try practicing this method at home and feel the benefits!
(brl/tin)
