Vazhakkai Poriyal Recipe – Raw Banana Roast with Pepper

Introduction

Vazhakkai Poriyal, also known as Raw Banana Roast, is a classic dish hailing from Tamil Nadu, where it holds a prominent place in traditional South Indian meals. This simple yet flavorful side dish is made with tender raw bananas and a medley of spices like black pepper, turmeric, and asafoetida. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice and sambar, making it an excellent addition to your everyday or weekend meals.

This recipe is diabetic-friendly and celebrates the goodness of raw bananas, which are rich in dietary fiber and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for all.

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Ingredients and Nutritional Information

Ingredient	Quantity	Nutritional Benefit
Sesame (Gingelly) Oil	2 tablespoons	Rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy fats
Mustard Seeds	1 teaspoon	Aids digestion and adds a nutty flavor
White Urad Dal (Split)	1 teaspoon	High in protein and dietary fiber
Curry Leaves (roughly chopped)	1 sprig	Loaded with iron and vitamins
Raw Bananas	2 (medium-sized)	Excellent source of potassium and fiber
Black Pepper Powder	1 teaspoon	Enhances metabolism and adds a spicy kick
Turmeric Powder (Haldi)	1/2 teaspoon	Known for its anti-inflammatory properties
Asafoetida (Hing)	1/2 teaspoon	Improves digestion and adds a unique flavor
Salt	To taste	Balances the flavors of the dish

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Preparation and Cooking Details

Detail	Time (in minutes)
Preparation Time	5 minutes
Cooking Time	30 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes
Servings	4

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Instructions to Prepare Vazhakkai Poriyal

Step 1: Prepare the Raw Bananas

1. Rinse the raw bananas thoroughly to remove any dirt.
2. Cut them in half (keep the skin on) and place them in a pressure cooker.
3. Add 1/2 cup of water and pressure cook the bananas for 4 to 5 whistles.
4. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.

Step 2: Peel and Dice

1. Once the pressure has released, carefully remove the bananas from the cooker.
2. Peel the skin off and slice or dice the cooked bananas into small bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Temper the Spices

1. Heat sesame oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add the urad dal and cook until it turns golden brown and crisp.
4. Toss in the curry leaves and let them crackle for a few seconds.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Roast

1. Sprinkle asafoetida into the pan and mix well.
2. Add the diced raw bananas, followed by turmeric powder, black pepper powder, and salt to taste.
3. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the bananas are evenly coated with the spices.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

1. Continue roasting the banana mixture on medium heat until it develops a light crispy texture.
2. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, but ensure the bananas don’t become mushy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once roasted to your satisfaction, turn off the heat and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
2. Transfer the Vazhakkai Poriyal to a serving bowl.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this flavorful Vazhakkai Poriyal – Raw Banana Roast with Pepper as a side dish alongside:

• Steamed Rice
• Sambar
• A dollop of tangy Rasam or a refreshing Coconut Chutney.

This versatile dish can also be paired with chapati or enjoyed as a standalone snack.

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Cooking Tips

1. Don’t overcook the bananas in the pressure cooker; they should be tender but firm to hold their shape during roasting.
2. For a richer flavor, you can add a dash of freshly grated coconut towards the end of roasting.
3. Adjust the quantity of black pepper powder to suit your spice preference.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	145 kcal
Protein	2.5 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Dietary Fiber	3.5 g
Fat	7 g
Potassium	400 mg
Iron	1 mg

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This Vazhakkai Poriyal Recipe – Raw Banana Roast with Pepper is a perfect blend of health and flavor, making it a staple for South Indian meals. Try it out for your next lunch or dinner, and revel in its comforting and wholesome taste!