South Indian Recipes: Bananas are one of the most common fruits in many parts of South India. Several regions have large areas under banana cultivation and innumerable personal properties also have their own banana groves. Hence, it is no surprise that this fruit is a popular ingredient in traditional recipes. And we're not just talking about sweet dishes. Bananas are also featured in many savoury South Indian recipes. What's more, both ripe and raw bananas are used for cooking various delicacies. We've made a short compilation of some of the famous South Indian banana dishes you can try making at home:
Here Are 8 Easy South Indian Recipes With Bananas:
1. Vazhakkai Poriyal
Vazhakkai Poriyal is a simple South Indian stir-fry dish made with raw bananas. It is flavoured with coconut and basic spices. This is a nourishing treat that can be prepared with minimal ingredients in just a few minutes. Here's the step-by-step recipe.
2. Raw Banana Fry
Also sometimes called Aratikaya Vepudu or Aratikaya, this South Indian delicacy features raw bananas. Their slices are fried and cooked with spices and other basic ingredients until they turn crisp and flavourful. Click here for a quick version of the recipe.
3. Mangalore Buns
You need only a handful of basic ingredients to make these banana buns. They're a beloved breakfast staple in Mangalore and surrounding areas. Mangalore buns can be eaten with coconut chutney and sambar. Alternatively, you can simply pair them with a piping-hot cup of coffee! Here's the full recipe.
4. Banana Appam
Do you love the round treats often synonymously called appe, paniyaram or appam? If yes, this is one of its sweet versions you must try. Bananas lend these appams a wonderful taste and texture. This delight is especially popular during festivals. Read the complete recipe here.
5. Banana Payasam
Another South Indian sweet recipe featuring bananas is this delicious payasam. As you may know, payasam is one of the most famous desserts in South India and it has several variations. This Kerala-style banana version is a great mix of yumminess and wholesomeness. Click here for the recipe.
Also Read: 10 South Indian Potato Recipes You Must Try
6. Pazham Pori
These are Kerala-style banana fritters, which are often relished during tea time. Ripe nendran bananas (Nenthra Pazham) are typically used for making Pazham Pori. The rest of the ingredients are simple. Read the full recipe here.
7. Banana Chips
Banana chips are not only locally beloved in South India. It has legions of fans across the country, and for good reason. While these chips are traditionally deep-fried, you can also explore other methods to make them with less oil. Find recipes and cooking tips for banana chips here.
8. Jaggery-Banana Chips
While you may have come across many 'experimental' flavours of banana chips, there's a sweet traditional twist you must also consider tasting: jaggery banana chips. These bites are amazing in their own way. They are often made with plantains instead of bananas and are also known as Sarkara varatti. Click here for the recipe.
This list contains only selected South Indian banana recipes. There are several other lip-smacking ones from different corners of the southern states. Let us know your favourites in the comments section!