Andhra-style Aratikaya Masala Pulusu (Raw Banana Stir Fry)
Aratikaya Masala Pulusu Recipe (Raw Banana Stir Fry)
Aratikaya Masala Pulusu, also known as Raw Banana Stir Fry, is a delightful and simple dish hailing from the heart of Andhra Pradesh. This flavorful vegetarian recipe brings the authentic taste of South India to your table, with raw bananas cooked in a savory tamarind gravy and seasoned with aromatic spices. The dish offers a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and earthy flavors, enhanced by the crunch of rice in the ground paste. Whether served alongside steamed rice or enjoyed as part of a larger meal, this recipe is sure to leave you craving more!
Cuisine: Andhra
Course: Lunch
Diet: Diabetic Friendly
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Banana | 1 (skin peeled and cut into small cubes) |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tamarind Water | 1/2 cup |
Ingredients to Grind
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ginger | 1 inch piece |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Rice | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 2-3
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Instructions
-
Prep the Raw Banana:
Start by peeling the skin off the raw banana. Cut it into small cubes, setting them aside for later use. -
-
Boil the Raw Banana:
In a saucepan, bring some water to a boil. Add the chopped raw banana along with turmeric powder and a pinch of salt. Boil for about 10 minutes, or until the raw banana becomes tender. Once done, strain the water and set the boiled banana aside. -
Prepare the Ground Paste:
In a blender, combine ginger, garlic, and rice. Add a little water and grind them together to form a coarse paste. Set this paste aside for later. -
Temper the Spices:
Heat oil in a kadai (or wok) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. This will take just a few seconds. -
Add Curry Leaves:
Next, add the curry leaves to the kadai. Let them crackle for about 10 seconds, releasing their fragrance. -
Cook the Raw Banana:
Add the boiled raw banana cubes to the kadai along with the ground ginger-garlic-rice paste. Stir well to combine the ingredients. -
Season the Stir Fry:
Sprinkle in the red chilli powder and add salt to taste. Stir the mixture well, ensuring that the raw banana is well-coated with the spices. -
Add Tamarind Water:
Pour in the tamarind water, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the water to evaporate, leaving a thick, flavorful gravy. -
Final Stir:
Give everything one last stir and let it cook for another minute or two until the raw banana absorbs the spices and the tamarind gravy thickens. -
Serve:
Serve your Aratikaya Masala Pulusu with steamed rice, alongside a fresh serving of Dosakaya Pappu (a delicious bottle gourd dal) for a fulfilling, traditional Andhra meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Rice Paste: The rice in the ground paste adds a slight crunch and thickens the gravy, making the dish unique. Be sure not to skip this step for the authentic texture.
- Tamarind Balance: Adjust the amount of tamarind water based on how tangy you like your dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the tamarind or add a bit more water to balance it out.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and Dosakaya Pappu or Papadums for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Aratikaya Masala Pulusu is a great choice for those looking for a diabetic-friendly lunch that’s full of flavor and low on calories. The raw banana provides a hearty base, while the tamarind and spices bring the dish to life, making it a comforting yet light meal. The dish is easy to prepare and packs in the flavors of Andhra cuisine without the use of heavy ingredients or oils. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch!
This simple yet delicious Aratikaya Masala Pulusu recipe is a great way to enjoy the authentic flavors of Andhra cuisine. With its perfect blend of spices and tamarind gravy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a fan of South Indian food or looking to try something new, this recipe brings the traditional taste right to your kitchen. Enjoy!
