Vazhakka Thoran / Ethakka Thoran/ Raw banana Stir fry

Vazha or Plantain plant is found in abundance in the backyard of most of the houses back home.Its an awesome sight to see the drooping Plantain leaves( vazhayila) after a rainy day especially in monsoon season. My predilection for this sight is known among all those who knows me well and hence i adapted the name for my blog "Vazhayila" Almost all parts of this plant is edible and we make a variety of dishes with it. Thoran with banana flower, green banana, The skin of banana, stir fries , Curry with green and  ripe plantains, the stem( Pindi) and even the seeds ( Kaa vithu). More plantain recipes here

Vazhayila is an integral part in all the Feast especially the Onam sadya in kerala and the aroma of the feast served on Vazhayila is  ineffable!!! A simple medley of raw banana, with grated coocnut and some add ons , this recipe made a regular presence in our onam sadya too.

Recipe for Kerala Style vazhakka thoran

Ingredients:-

Raw banana/ Green plantains - 4

Grated coconut - 1/2 cup

Crushed garlic - 3 cloves

Chopped green chiles - 2 nos

Shallots - 5

Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp

Cumin seeds -- 1/2 tsp

Mustard seeds

Curry leaves

Salt to taste

Oil

Method

Peel and chop the raw banana into small pieces.

Cook it covered by adding a cup water and salt , till it is done.

Grind grated coconut, Turmeric powder, green chiles and crushed garlic and 3 shallots to a coarse paste.

Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds.

When the pop up add cumin seeds and curry leaves and chopped shallots and fry it for a minute.

Add cooked raw plantains and combine it with the coconut mix.saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally

Serve warm with Rice.

Cheers!!!

Sarah