Bunga Kantan

Common Name(s):
Torch Ginger Flower
,
Scientific Name:
Etlingera elatior
BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION
Related to other rhizomes like ginger and turmeric, bunga kantan is the flower of the torch ginger plant. That said, its true flowers are hidden within pseudo-petals that range in shades of pink from pastel to fuchsia. All these pseudo-petals and flowers are edible and highly aromatic.
HABITAT
Believed to be native to Malaysia. Commonly planted in areas prone to stagnant water as it naturally requires a lot of watering.
SEASON
Prolific in wet seasons.
TASTE/AROMA
Smelling strongly like a floral ginger, it has a bright, almost spicy taste.
COMMON USE
An important ingredient in many laksa dishes (noodle soups) of Malaysia and the region for its fragrance and flavor.
USE IN DEWAKAN
Its pickled petals are served with grilled Tatus Hitam, or slipper lobster.
SOURCES
Hosnan, M. A. (2022). Apa Hebatnya Bunga Kantan?. Anim Agro Technology.
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