If you’re craving a delightful snack that will transport you to the captivating land of Kerala, look no further than Pazham Pori. This mouthwatering recipe for deep-fried banana fritters will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey of flavors and textures. Originally hailing from the charming tea shops, or chaya kadas, of Kerala, Pazham Pori is a timeless snack that combines simple ingredients to create a culinary masterpiece.
In the heart of Kerala, amidst the aroma of freshly brewed tea, you’ll find Pazham Pori stealing the show. This beloved tea time snack, also known as ethakka appam, is made using a variety of banana called nendra pazham. The nendra pazham banana stands apart with its pastel yellow flesh, elongated shape, and delightful sweetness. Its unique characteristics make it the perfect choice for crafting the perfect pazham pori.
To create this delectable treat, the bananas are sliced lengthwise into thin strips and coated in a batter made from all-purpose flour, rice flour, turmeric, sugar, and a pinch of baking soda. The coated banana slices are then gently dropped into hot coconut oil, where they sizzle and fry to golden perfection. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to a tender, sweet banana filling. The pazham pori is traditionally served alongside other deep-fried snacks like parippu vada (lentil fritters) and accompanied by cups of fragrant cardamom tea.
To recreate the magic of Pazham Pori in your kitchen. Here’s a simple recipe to guide you:
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon rice flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 pinch of turmeric
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ cup water
- Oil, for frying
Method:
- In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, rice flour, turmeric powder, and sugar to make the batter. Slowly add water in a drizzle while stirring, until you achieve a thick yet easily coatable consistency, similar to bhajiya batter.
- Slice the ripe bananas lengthwise into thin strips of about ½ inch in width. Dip each banana slice into the batter, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a large pot for deep frying. Carefully drop the battered banana slices into the hot oil, frying them on a medium-low flame. This ensures they retain their vibrant yellow color. Fry until the bubbles subside and the fritters turn crispy and golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried fritters from the oil and place them on an absorbent paper towel to drain excess oil.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the pazham pori with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve the fritters hot, accompanied by a steaming cup of tea or aromatic filter coffee.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re seeking a delightful tea-time snack, a unique breakfast option, or simply a delicious treat to indulge in, Pazham Pori is sure to satisfy your cravings and elevate your snacking experience. So gather the ingredients, heat that oil, and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and bring the flavors of enchanting Kerala to your home.
