Recipe for Banana Stem Curry: A Healthy South Indian Delight

Banana stem, also known as "vazhaithandu" in Tamil or "arati dookanu" in Telugu, is a powerhouse of nutrition that is often underrated. This crunchy, fibrous stem is not just healthy but also incredibly versatile in Indian cuisine. One of the most popular and tasty ways to consume banana stem is through a flavorful curry. Banana stem curry is especially common in South Indian households and is a fantastic addition to any meal, be it lunch or dinner.
In this blog, we will explore the step-by-step process of making banana stem curry along with tips to clean and prepare the stem correctly.

Why Banana Stem?
Banana stem is rich in dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin B6. It is known to aid digestion, detoxify the body, and prevent kidney stones. Due to its high fiber content, it helps in weight management and controlling blood sugar levels.

Ingredients Required
●    Banana stem – 1 medium-sized (about 2 cups when chopped)

●    Moong dal (split yellow gram) – 1/4 cup (optional but recommended)

●    Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon

●    Salt – as per taste

●    Water – 2 to 2.5 cups

For Tempering:
●    Coconut oil or regular cooking oil – 1 tablespoon

●    Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon

●    Urad dal – 1 teaspoon

●    Dried red chilli – 1

●    Green chilli – 1 (slit)

●    Curry leaves – a sprig

●    Asafoetida (hing) – a pinch

●    Grated coconut – 2 tablespoons (optional, for garnish)


Preparation of Banana Stem
Cleaning banana stem is a key step and can be a bit time-consuming, but once you know the method, it becomes quite simple.
1.    Peeling: Remove the outer fibrous layers until you reach the tender inner stem.

2.    Slicing: Cut the stem into thin discs. You will notice fibers sticking to your knife. Remove these with your fingers or wrap them around your finger and discard.

3.    Chopping: Cut the discs into small cubes.

4.    Soaking: Immediately place the chopped pieces in water mixed with a little buttermilk or turmeric to prevent discoloration and bitterness.


Cooking Instructions
1.    Cooking Moong Dal (Optional):
 Rinse the moong dal and cook it in about 1 cup of water with a pinch of turmeric until soft but not mushy. Set aside.

2.    Cooking the Banana Stem:
 In a pot or pressure cooker, add the chopped banana stem, turmeric powder, and enough water to cover. Cook until the stem becomes tender. If using a pressure cooker, 1–2 whistles are usually enough. Drain any excess water and keep aside.

3.    Tempering the Curry:
 In a pan, heat oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add urad dal and fry until golden. Then, add dried red chilli, green chilli, curry leaves, and a pinch of hing.

4.    Combining All Elements:
 Add the cooked banana stem to the tempered spices and mix well. If you are using moong dal, add it at this stage. Add salt to taste and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend.

5.    Final Touch:
 Garnish with fresh grated coconut for a mild sweetness and enhanced texture. Mix and turn off the heat.


Serving Suggestions
Banana stem curry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a dollop of ghee. It can also be served as a side dish with rasam, sambar, or curd rice. If you want to make it part of a wholesome meal, pair it with a lentil-based soup like paruppu or dal and a pickle on the side.

Tips for Best Results
●    Always use fresh banana stem. It should be firm and light-colored inside. Dark or soggy stems are overripe and may taste bitter.

●    To reduce the fibrous texture, ensure you remove all threads during chopping.

●    You can add a small piece of tamarind while cooking if you prefer a tangy twist to the curry.

●    Avoid overcooking the stem to retain its crunchy texture.


Conclusion
Banana stem curry is a delicious way to include this superfood in your diet. Not only does it offer multiple health benefits, but it also brings variety and traditional flavor to your daily meals. Whether you are on a health journey or simply looking to try a new vegetable preparation, this recipe is a must-try.
Eating local and seasonal vegetables like banana stem helps connect us to our roots while nourishing our bodies. So the next time you spot a banana plant in your neighborhood or market, don’t just take the fruit—bring the stem home and turn it into a nutritious curry.

TAGS : recipe for banana stem curry: a healthy south indian delight, banana stem curry, banana stem curry recipe