Raw bananas or, to be more apt, green bananas or plantains, are a favourite ingredient in many dishes around the world. Rich in fibre, potassium, and lots of vitamins; raw bananas can be prepared into countless dishes-from savoury snacks to luscious curries
One of the most popular snacks consumed across India, these are traditionally prepared in South India. Raw banana is sliced as thinly as possible, then deep-fried in coconut oil till golden brown and crispy. Flavours can be added in the form of salt, black pepper, or chilli powder; lightly sprinkled over it will make it spicy.
This is a South Indian-style fried dish made with different pieces of raw banana, tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a handful of grated coconut. It is lightly spiced using turmeric, chilli powder, and cumin. Therefore, it is healthy with rice or flatbreads.
This is a rich yet indulgent dish that can be enjoyed with literally anything - Naan, Rice or even Chapati. For this dish, boiled and mashed raw bananas are mixed with spices, then shaped into balls, and deep-fried to become crispy koftas are simmered in a rich, smooth sauce, not dissimilar from meatballs in sauce.
A raw banana curry is a comfort food that can be prepared in so many different styles. You could make a coconut-based curry typical for Kerala, or you could make a spiced tomato gravy common in Northern Indian households. The raw banana has a nice, mild, starchy flavour that allows the spices to really penetrate nicely
These are excellent vegetarian snacks or appetizers with mashed raw bananas and spices and herbs. These are perfect patties and are shallow-fried from the outside until crispy. They taste very good when served with green chutney or ketchup, often a perfect evening snack or party dish.
Vazhakkai Bajji or raw banana fritters, is one of the popular street food snacks of India. Raw banana slices, which are dipped in a seasoned chickpea flour batter, are deep-fried until golden brown and crunchy. The outside is crunchy and soft and tender inside. These fritters are yummy with some chutney or a steaming cup of hot tea.