Kela Methi Bhajiya (Banana Fenugreek Fritters) Recipe
Description:
Kela Methi Bhajiya is a delightful and savory snack from Gujarat, perfect for tea time or as an after-school treat for kids. These crispy fritters combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the slight bitterness of fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile. With a combination of spices and a crispy exterior, these fritters are soft and flavorful on the inside. Traditionally deep-fried, they can also be prepared in a paniyaram pan for a lighter version.
This Gujarati snack offers a unique blend of flavors and is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Cuisine:
Gujarati Recipes
Course:
Appetizer
Diet:
Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe Bananas (fully ripe) | 3 Bananas |
| Methi Leaves (Fenugreek Leaves) | 1/2 cup (washed and finely chopped) |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1/2 cup |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Cooking Soda | A pinch |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 1/4 cup (for making the batter) |
| Oil | For frying |
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the gram flour (besan), whole wheat flour, cooking soda, asafoetida, cumin seeds, red chili powder, black pepper powder, turmeric powder, and sugar. Season with salt as per your taste. Mix all the dry ingredients well.
- Next, add the ripe bananas and chopped methi leaves into the bowl. Use your hands or the back of a wooden ladle to mash the bananas until they form a smooth paste. The bananas will act as the binding agent, giving the fritters a soft texture.
-
Make the Batter:
- Gradually add water, little by little, to the mixture and stir until you achieve a thick, smooth batter. Let the batter rest for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
-
Frying the Fritters:
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, stir the batter again to ensure it is mixed evenly. Using a spoon or your hands, carefully drop small dollops of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Keep flipping the fritters to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy.
-
Alternative Method (Using a Paniyaram Pan):
- If you prefer a lighter version, heat a paniyaram pan and add a few drops of oil into each cavity. Drop small portions of the batter into each cavity, covering the pan with a lid. After 3–4 minutes, you’ll notice the top of the fritters starting to cook.
- Carefully turn each fritter (paniyaram) over to cook the other side. Continue cooking without a lid, allowing the bottom to become crispy and browned. This method gives the fritters a slightly healthier texture while still providing a delicious result.
-
Drain and Serve:
- Once the fritters are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Serve your hot Kela Methi Bhajiya with a steaming cup of tea and a side of Dhaniya Pudina Chutney for a perfect snack experience.
Tips:
- Ensure the bananas you use are fully ripe to give the bhajiya the perfect sweetness and texture.
- Adjust the level of spices (such as red chili powder and black pepper) according to your preference.
- If you’re avoiding deep frying, the paniyaram pan method is a great alternative to get crispy fritters with less oil.
- Serve these fritters as an appetizer at your next gathering or enjoy them during tea time with family and friends.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g |
| Fat | ~4g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sugar | ~6g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion:
Kela Methi Bhajiya is a flavorful and easy-to-make snack that combines the sweetness of bananas with the earthy bitterness of fenugreek leaves, offering a delightful balance of flavors. Whether deep-fried for extra crispiness or made in a paniyaram pan for a lighter option, this Gujarati treat is sure to be a hit. Perfect for tea time, these fritters are not only delicious but also bring a touch of authentic Gujarati cuisine to your table. Enjoy them with chutney and tea, and share this lovely snack with your loved ones!
