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Bananas are one of the most versatile ingredients in an Indian household, loved not just as a fruit but as a plant whose stem, flower, and raw form all can be turned into delicious recipes. From snacks to curries and desserts, the banana changes itself beautifully in both traditional and modern recipes. In many households, every part of the banana plant is used, reflecting a culture of sustainability and zero waste.
Raw bananas have a starchy, potato-like texture which can replace potatoes for savoury dishes, while ripe bananas turn into delectable sweets. The stem and flower also add unique flavours and textures to everyday meals. Whether crunchy, spicy, or sweet, banana-based dishes are as nutritious as they are flavourful. Here are five must-try banana-based recipes that display how this simple ingredient changes into hearty meals.
Raw Banana Curry
Raw Banana Curry or kacche kele ki sabzi is a flavourful South Indian-style curry prepared by using unripe bananas cooked with mild spices, coconut, and tempering of mustard seeds. The vegetable soaks the masala, giving the curry a mildly starchy yet flavourful taste. Raw banana curry pairs amazingly with steamed rice or chapati. During festivals, it is also prepared as part of a traditional meal, delivering a perfect balance of health and taste.
Banana Flower Vada
Banana Flower Vada is a crunchy snack prepared with chopped banana flowers mixed in a spiced dal batter and deep-fried until it turns crispy. It is a traditional Karnataka dish that is not only delectable but also full of nutrition. The vadas have a slightly earthy flavour that comes from the banana flower, seasoned by aromatic spices such as ginger, green chillies, and curry leaves. It tastes best when served hot with coconut chutney and is a must-try monsoon or festive snack.
Banana Stem Stir-Fry
Banana Stem Stir-Fry, also locally known as Vazhai Thandu Palya, is a dish prepared by using the fibrous core of the banana plant. Cooked with coconut, curry leaves, and a mild tempering of spices, this curry has a special crunchy texture. Loved for its digestive benefits, banana stem stir fry is often included in traditional festive thalis to balance the meal.
Banana Chips
Banana Chips are a crispy, golden snack which is prepared from thinly sliced raw bananas deep-fried in coconut oil and seasoned with salt or spices. Popular across South India, particularly in Karnataka and Kerala, these chips are a loved crunchy snack. Their irresistible crunch and subtle sweetness make the banana chips perfect for munching as an accompaniment to tea.
Banana Halwa
Banana Halwa is a rich, melt-in-the-mouth dessert prepared with ripe bananas, ghee, sugar, and cardamom. Slow-cooked till it gets a glossy, chewy consistency, this halwa is a popular festive dessert in many Karnataka households. The natural sweetness of the banana is enhanced by ghee and nuts, which makes it both indulgent and wholesome. Loaded with flavour and nutrients, it changes bananas into a royal dessert.
