Goan Raw Banana Sabzi Recipe
A Flavorful Goan Side Dish with Plantains, Coconut, and Spices
Introduction
Goan cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, brings us this delightful Goan Raw Banana Sabzi. Made with fresh plantains, grated coconut, and traditional Goan spices, this dish is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals. The tender plantains absorb all the flavors of the spices, creating a deliciously unique side dish that pairs wonderfully with Phulka (Indian flatbread) or steamed rice. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner option or a side to elevate your meal, this Goan Raw Banana Sabzi will surely impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Banana (plantains) | 3, chopped into cubes |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 4 tablespoons |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chilli | 1, broken |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sunflower Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | to taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 140 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 230mg |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Goan
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Raw Bananas (Plantains)
Begin by peeling the skin of the raw bananas and chopping them into bite-sized cubes. Immerse the chopped plantains in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from discoloring while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. -
Heat the Oil and Temper Spices
Heat 2 teaspoons of sunflower oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter, which releases their aroma and flavor. -
Add Aromatics
To the spluttering mustard seeds, add a dry red chilli and curry leaves. Let them crackle for a few seconds to infuse the oil with their distinct flavors. Next, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. -
Cook the Plantains
Drain the soaked plantains and add them to the pan with the tempered spices. Stir well to mix the plantains with the onion and spices. Add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder and salt to taste. Stir again to combine everything evenly. -
Let the Plantains Cook
Cover the pan with a lid and let the plantains cook on low heat for about 5 minutes. Raw bananas cook relatively quickly, so check for doneness. They should be tender but not mushy. -
Grind the Cumin and Coconut
While the plantains are cooking, use a pestle and mortar to pound together the cumin seeds and grated coconut into a coarse mixture. This combination of flavors will add richness and depth to the dish. -
Combine and Finish Cooking
Once the plantains are cooked, add the ground cumin-coconut mixture to the pan. Stir everything together, making sure the plantains are well coated with the coconut and spice mixture. Continue to sauté for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Serve
Turn off the heat and serve your Goan Raw Banana Sabzi hot. This dish pairs perfectly with Phulka (soft Indian flatbread), steamed rice, or even alongside a hearty stew like Feijoada (a spicy Goan black-eyed peas stew).
Tips for the Best Goan Raw Banana Sabzi
- Soaking the Plantains: Soaking the chopped plantains in cold water helps keep them from turning brown and ensures they cook evenly.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of dry red chillies or omit them altogether. For extra spice, you can add a chopped green chilli along with the onions.
- Grated Coconut: Fresh coconut adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish. If fresh coconut is unavailable, you can use desiccated coconut, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Suggested Pairings
- Phulka or Roti: Soft, warm flatbreads complement the slightly crunchy texture of the plantains.
- Steamed Rice: The simplicity of steamed rice is the perfect base for this flavorful sabzi.
- Feijoada (Spicy Goan Black Eyed Peas Stew): For a traditional Goan meal, serve this sabzi alongside a hearty bowl of Feijoada.
Conclusion
This Goan Raw Banana Sabzi recipe brings a burst of flavors and textures, making it a perfect side dish for your next meal. With its simple ingredients, quick cooking time, and delicious taste, it’s a great way to introduce more plantains into your meals. The subtle yet aromatic spices—turmeric, mustard, cumin, and coconut—transform raw bananas into an extraordinary dish that will leave you craving more.
Enjoy the authentic taste of Goa right in your kitchen with this easy and delicious recipe!
