Kerala-Style Ghee Roasted Banana
Lunch • India
How to Make Kerala-Style Ghee Roasted Banana (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kerala-Style Ghee Roasted Banana, locally known as 'Nendra Pazham Ghee Roast', is a beloved dish from the heart of Kerala. This recipe features ripe nendran bananas, gently roasted in aromatic desi ghee, bringing out their natural sweetness and golden caramelization. Traditionally served during Onam and Vishu festivals, this wholesome treat is enjoyed across Kerala, especially as a nourishing lunch or breakfast option. The dish offers a beautiful balance of rich flavors and simple ingredients, making it a comforting choice for all ages. In Kerala’s households, ghee roasted banana is cherished for its ease of preparation and health benefits, often found on festive lunch plates or as an after-school snack for children. The creamy texture of nendran bananas, enhanced with the nutty notes of ghee, is complemented by hints of cardamom and a sprinkle of grated coconut. Whether served plain or with a drizzle of honey, this recipe preserves the authentic taste of Kerala while making it suitable for health-conscious individuals. Kerala-Style Ghee Roasted Banana is not just a culinary delight; it is a cultural staple highlighting the region’s love for bananas and dairy. Its popularity during festivals and family gatherings reveals its deep-rooted cultural significance, and its simplicity makes it accessible to all.
Ingredients(for 1 medium banana roasted per person)
- 2 medium Nendran banana (Kerala variety, ripe)
- 2 tablespoons Desi ghee (clarified butter)
- 2 tablespoons Grated coconut (fresh or dried) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Cardamom powder (elaichi)
- 1 teaspoon Honey (optional for extra sweetness) - optional
- a pinch Salt (optional) - optional
- a pinch Black pepper (optional for spice) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Peel the nendran bananas and slice them lengthwise into thick strips.
3 minutes
Use ripe but firm bananas for best texture.
- 2
Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame and add 1 tablespoon desi ghee.
2 minutes
Ensure the tawa is evenly heated to prevent sticking.
- 3
Place banana slices on the tawa and roast for 5-7 minutes, gently pressing and flipping until golden brown on both sides.
7 minutes
Roast in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- 4
Sprinkle cardamom powder and grated coconut over the bananas while roasting. Add remaining ghee as needed.
3 minutes
Adding coconut gives a traditional Kerala touch.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Kerala-Style Ghee Roasted Banana is a wholesome, vegetarian recipe that leverages natural sweetness and healthy fats, making it ideal for calorie-conscious eaters. The use of ghee in moderation provides good cholesterol, while bananas offer sustained energy and essential nutrients. With no refined sugar and optional honey, it is a low-GI, fiber-rich dish, supporting digestive health and weight management. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it accessible for daily meals.
Nendran bananas are a rich source of dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, supporting digestive health and immunity. Desi ghee, though calorie-dense, offers healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Cardamom provides antioxidants while grated coconut adds healthy fats and minerals. The recipe avoids refined sugars, making it suitable for balanced diets. This dish’s macros are mainly from carbohydrates (banana) and healthy fats (ghee, coconut), with minimal protein.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use ripe nendran bananas for authentic flavor and texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Roast bananas on low-medium heat to ensure even caramelization.
- 💡Tip 3: Grated coconut adds a traditional Kerala touch and extra nutrition.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently on tawa to restore texture; do not microwave to avoid sogginess.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 250.0 kcal |
