Kela Besani Sabzi Recipe: A Delicious North Indian Delight
Kela Besani Sabzi, a delightful North Indian dish, is made by coating raw bananas in a spiced gram flour batter, frying them to perfection, and cooking them in a rich curd gravy. This dish is perfect for those looking for a satisfying meal that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors. It’s ideal to pair with hot phulkas or tawa parathas, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner.
This recipe is also ideal for those following a No Onion, No Garlic (Sattvic) diet, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and tanginess with a touch of spiciness. The crispy fried banana slices combined with the creamy yogurt-based gravy make this sabzi truly irresistible.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw banana | 1 |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1 cup |
| Asafoetida | A pinch |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tbsp |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Red chilli powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Curd (yogurt) | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | As required for frying |
| Fresh coriander (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Green chilli (chopped) | 1 |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Sugars | 3g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Bananas:
Start by thoroughly washing the raw bananas. Peel them carefully and cut them into round slices. Once cut, boil these banana slices in water for a few minutes until they become slightly tender but not too soft. -
Make the Gram Flour Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), a pinch of turmeric powder, and salt. Gradually add water to create a smooth batter, making sure it’s not too runny but thick enough to coat the banana slices evenly. -
Fry the Bananas:
Once the bananas are boiled and drained, dip each slice into the prepared gram flour batter, ensuring it’s well-coated. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, and once hot, fry the banana slices in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil. -
Prepare the Gravy:
In another pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and cumin seeds, letting them splutter. Once fragrant, add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and coriander powder. Stir well and let the spices roast for a few seconds. -
Add the Curd and Water:
Reduce the heat and add the curd (yogurt) and water to the pan. Stir well to create a smooth gravy. Bring it to a simmer and allow it to cook for a few minutes so the flavors meld together. -
Combine the Fried Bananas and Gravy:
Add the fried banana slices to the curd gravy. Gently mix them so that the bananas are well-coated with the gravy. Add salt to taste. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the bananas to absorb the flavors of the gravy. -
Final Touches:
Once the sabzi is cooked and the gravy has thickened, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves, green chilies, and a sprinkle of garam masala powder to enhance the aroma. -
Serve:
Serve your Kela Besani Sabzi hot with phulkas, tawa parathas, or even steamed rice for a fulfilling meal.
Tips & Variations
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Frying Tips: Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying the banana slices. If the oil is too cold, the gram flour coating may not crisp up properly, leading to soggy pieces.
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Consistency of Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of water slightly or let it simmer longer to thicken.
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Spice Adjustments: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. Add more red chili powder for heat or increase the amount of garam masala for a richer flavor.
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Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the curd with a non-dairy yogurt alternative.
Kela Besani Sabzi is an exceptional North Indian dish that highlights the versatility of raw bananas. The combination of crispy fried banana slices and the rich, creamy curd gravy makes for a comforting meal that’s both savory and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it out today and enjoy this flavorful, hearty meal with your loved ones!
