Raw Banana Thoran: A Delightful Kerala Vegetable Dish
Raw Banana Thoran is a quintessential dish from the Kerala cuisine, offering a burst of flavors with every bite. This traditional vegetarian recipe features raw banana cooked with grated coconut, tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and other aromatic spices. A staple in many Kerala households, this dish is simple to prepare and makes an excellent side dish for lunch, especially when paired with rice, sambar, and crispy papad. It’s light, healthy, and packed with a rich blend of flavors that make it both comforting and satisfying.
Cuisine: Kerala Recipes
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Raw Banana Thoran
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Banana | 2 (boiled and chopped) |
| Coconut Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Red Chillies | 2 |
| Curry Leaves | 8 |
| Small Onions | 10 (finely chopped) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves (finely chopped) |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Grated Coconut | 1/4 cup |
| Green Chillies | 2 |
| Coriander Leaves | 1/4 cup (chopped) |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~18g |
| Protein | ~2g |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~150mg |
Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Raw Banana Thoran
-
Prepare the Raw Banana:
Begin by cutting the raw bananas in half. Place them in a pressure cooker and cook for 3-4 whistles. This softens the bananas and makes them easier to chop. Once cooked, peel off the skin and chop the banana into small pieces. -
Grind the Coconut Paste:
In a mixer grinder, combine the grated coconut, green chillies, and turmeric powder. Grind the mixture into a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary. -
Tempering the Spices:
Heat coconut oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them crackle for about 10-15 seconds. Next, add the dried red chillies and curry leaves, allowing them to release their aroma. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onions and garlic to the pan. Sauté them until the onions turn soft and slightly golden. -
Cook the Raw Banana:
Add the chopped raw banana pieces to the pan and mix them well with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir in the grated coconut paste and salt, ensuring everything is well combined. -
Simmer and Final Touch:
Allow the mixture to cook for 3-4 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the raw banana is thoroughly coated with the coconut paste and has absorbed the flavors, turn off the heat. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for an added burst of flavor. Serve the Raw Banana Thoran hot with a side of Tomato Onion Sambar, Rice, and crispy Papad.
Serving Suggestions
Raw Banana Thoran pairs beautifully with a variety of Kerala dishes, making it a fantastic addition to your lunch or dinner table. It goes perfectly with:
- Rice: A simple, fluffy rice complements the flavors of the thoran and sambar.
- Tomato Onion Sambar: A tangy, spiced sambar made with tomatoes and onions that adds a rich contrast to the mild flavors of the thoran.
- Papad: A crispy, thin snack that adds texture and crunch to the meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Raw Banana Thoran
- Banana Selection: For best results, choose firm raw bananas. Overripe bananas might turn mushy during cooking, which could alter the texture of the thoran.
- Coconut Paste: Freshly grated coconut works best for an authentic taste, but desiccated coconut can be used in a pinch.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chillies based on your preference for heat. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the chillies or omit them altogether.
Why You’ll Love Raw Banana Thoran
- Quick and Easy: With just a few basic ingredients, Raw Banana Thoran can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or packed lunches.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a wholesome addition to any meal. The combination of raw banana and coconut oil also provides numerous health benefits, including promoting good digestion and a healthy heart.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chillies infuses the dish with rich, aromatic flavors that are characteristic of Kerala cuisine. The grated coconut adds a natural sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Raw Banana Thoran is a wonderful example of the simplicity and depth of flavors found in Kerala’s vegetarian dishes. Its delightful combination of raw banana, grated coconut, and tempering spices makes it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Kerala cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is sure to win a place in your regular meal rotation. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or as part of a complete Kerala meal, and savor the goodness of authentic, wholesome food.
