BANANA STEM PORIYAL

VAZHAI THANDU (BANANA STEM) PORIYAL

Banana stem is well known for its health benefits.  When it is cooked in a tasty way, the benefit is doubled.

ITEMS REQUIRED:

Banana stem                      1 – big

Coconut                                  1/4 cup

Cooking oil                          2 tbsp

Coconut oil                          1 spoon(optional-but enhances the taste)

Red chilly                             3

Salt                                          as required

Hing                                         liberal pinch

Turmeric powder             pinch

Mustard                                 for tempering

Urad dal                                for tempering

Curry leaf                              1 strip

METHOD:

• Remove the outer covering of banana stem, cut into round pieces first,  removing thread/fibre for every cut by rotating the finger and finally chop the round pieces into fine pieces(see pic) and put in dilute buttermilk to avoid discolouration.
• Heat cooking oil, add mustard, urad dal, hing, red chilies and curry leaves.
• Add chopped banana stem, salt and turmeric powder.
• Mix well, sprinkle little water and keep closed with lid in medium gas.
• When it is fully cooked and water is fully absorbed, switch off burner.
• Add coconut and coconut oil.
• Mix well and enjoy tasty poriyal.