Vazha Thandu Poriyal Recipe – Tamil Nadu Style Dry Banana Stem Fry
Vazha Thandu Poriyal, also known as Tamil Nadu Style Dry Banana Stem Fry, is a simple and nutritious South Indian side dish. This dish highlights the subtle, earthy flavors of banana stem, perfectly seasoned with coconut and tempered with aromatic spices. Banana stem is a highly nutritious ingredient, known for its cooling properties and health benefits, making this recipe a great addition to a diabetic-friendly diet.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Banana Stem | 300 grams | Cut into small dices and soaked in buttermilk |
| Pearl onions (Sambar Onions) | 1/4 cup | Finely chopped |
| Green Chillies | 2 | Finely chopped |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig | Finely chopped |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Fresh coconut | 2 tablespoons | Grated |
| Sunflower Oil | As required for cooking | |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~75 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~9 g |
| Protein | ~2 g |
| Fat | ~3 g |
| Fiber | ~4 g |
| Sodium | ~150 mg |
| Potassium | ~250 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Diabetic-Friendly
Instructions
Step 1: Pressure Cook the Banana Stem
- Begin by preparing the banana stem. Cut it into small dices and soak them in buttermilk to prevent discoloration.
- Transfer the diced banana stem to a pressure cooker along with buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and turmeric powder.
- Cook for 1 whistle on medium heat, then allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Drain the water completely and set the cooked banana stem aside.
Step 2: Temper the Spices
- Heat a skillet over medium flame and add sunflower oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and allow them to crackle.
- Add the chopped curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds to release their aroma.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Banana Stem
- Add the cooked banana stem to the skillet. Toss well to coat it with the tempered spices.
- Stir in the finely chopped green chilies and salt to taste. Mix thoroughly and let it cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Coconut
- Add the grated fresh coconut to the skillet. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to fry for about 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the salt, if necessary.
Step 5: Serve the Vazha Thandu Poriyal
- Turn off the heat and transfer the poriyal to a serving dish.
- Serve this flavorful Vazha Thandu Poriyal alongside Steamed Rice, Parappu Rasam, and Elai Vadam for a wholesome and satisfying Tamil Nadu-style meal.
Tips for Success
- Always soak banana stem in buttermilk after cutting to prevent it from turning brown.
- Use fresh coconut for the best flavor. If unavailable, frozen coconut can be a substitute.
- Adjust the number of green chilies based on your spice preference.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Health Benefits: Banana stem is high in dietary fiber and helps improve digestion while supporting kidney health.
- Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays.
- Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with simple South Indian meals, making it a great addition to your weekly menu.
Prepare this Vazha Thandu Poriyal to bring a slice of Tamil Nadu to your dining table. It’s a delicious way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals without compromising on taste!
