Banana Stem Poriyal Recipe With Curry Powder
Description
Banana Stem Poriyal is a delightful side dish rooted in Karnataka cuisine. This semi-dry stir-fry dish transforms banana stem into a flavorful accompaniment with the addition of South Indian curry powder, cumin powder, and chili powder. A hint of yogurt adds a touch of sourness, while gram flour helps to balance the texture and soak up excess moisture. This vegetarian dish is both nutritious and delicious, offering a unique way to include banana stem in your diet.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Banana Stem | 1, outer layer removed, chopped | Rich in fiber, aids digestion |
| Onion | 1, chopped | Provides antioxidants and flavor |
| Red Chili Powder | 1 ½ teaspoons | Adds spice, contains capsaicin |
| Curry Powder | 1 ½ teaspoons | Enhances flavor, contains a mix of spices |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 pinch | Anti-inflammatory, boosts immunity |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon | Aids digestion, aromatic spice |
| Curd (Yogurt) | 2 teaspoons | Adds probiotics, enhances gut health |
| Salt | To taste | Balances flavor |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 2 teaspoons | Protein-rich, helps thicken the dish |
| Oil | 2 teaspoons | Cooking medium, adds subtle richness |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon | Adds earthy flavor, aids digestion |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon | Aromatic spice, supports digestion |
| Curry Leaves | 2 sprigs | Aromatic herb, rich in vitamins |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Banana Stem
- Begin by prepping the banana stem. Carefully make cuts along its outer layer and remove the tough outer covering.
- Slice the banana stem into thin rounds. As you slice, gently remove the fiber strands that emerge between the slices. Once done, chop the slices into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 cm thick.
-
Heat the Oil and Temper the Spices
- Heat a heavy-bottomed kadai (wok) on medium heat and add 2 teaspoons of oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. Follow with cumin seeds, letting them sizzle for a few seconds.
-
Saute the Aromatics
- Add curry leaves to the kadai and sauté briefly until they crisp up slightly.
- Stir in the chopped onions and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent and soft.
-
Cook the Banana Stem
- Add the chopped banana stem pieces to the kadai. Pour a small amount of water to aid the cooking process.
- Cover the kadai with a lid and cook the banana stem until it softens. If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can undercook it slightly.
-
Incorporate Spices and Flour
- Once the banana stem is cooked to your liking, add red chili powder, curry powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the banana stem evenly with the spices.
- Sprinkle the gram flour (besan) into the mixture and stir to combine. The gram flour helps to absorb any excess moisture and adds a slightly nutty flavor.
-
Finish with Yogurt
- Lower the heat and add 2 teaspoons of curd (yogurt) to the mixture. Stir well, allowing the yogurt to blend into the dish and add a hint of tanginess.
-
Taste and Adjust
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes on medium heat, ensuring all the flavors meld together. Check the seasoning and adjust salt or spices as needed.
-
Serve
- Switch off the heat and transfer the Banana Stem Poriyal to a serving bowl.
- Pair this flavorful sabzi with Lobia Masala (Black Eyed Bean Curry), fresh Phulkas, and a crisp Indian Vegetable Salad for a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Stem Poriyal makes a perfect side dish for a simple Indian meal. Its combination of subtle spices and tangy yogurt complements dals, curries, and flatbreads beautifully.
- Serving Size: 4 portions
- Cuisine: Karnataka
- Course: Side Dish
- Dietary Preference: Vegetarian
Pro Tips
- To prevent the banana stem from browning, immerse the chopped pieces in a bowl of water mixed with a few drops of lemon juice until ready to cook.
- Besan is optional but highly recommended for binding the dish and soaking up extra moisture.
- If curry powder is unavailable, substitute it with a mix of coriander powder, garam masala, and ground fennel for a similar flavor profile.
Enjoy this simple yet nutritious Banana Stem Poriyal Recipe With Curry Powder as part of a traditional South Indian feast or a contemporary meal.
