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
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Peel the nendran bananas and slice them lengthwise into thick strips
Peel the nendran bananas and slice them lengthwise into thick strips.
Step 2 · Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame and add 1 tablespoon desi ghee
Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame and add 1 tablespoon desi ghee.
Step 3 · Place banana slices on the tawa and roast for 5-7 minutes
Place banana slices on the tawa and roast for 5-7 minutes, gently pressing and flipping until golden brown on both sides.
Step 4 · Sprinkle cardamom powder and grated coconut over the bananas while ...
Sprinkle cardamom powder and grated coconut over the bananas while roasting. Add remaining ghee as needed.
Step 5 · Once bananas are caramelized and browned
Once bananas are caramelized and browned, transfer to a serving plate.
Step 6 · Optional: Drizzle honey
Optional: Drizzle honey, sprinkle salt or black pepper to taste for additional flavor.
Step 7 · Serve hot as a healthy lunch or breakfast side
Serve hot as a healthy lunch or breakfast side.
Why this recipe 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.
A note on tradition
Kerala-Style Ghee Roasted Banana is historically rooted in Kerala cuisine, where nendran bananas are a staple and feature widely in festive sadhya (feast) platters, especially during Onam and Vishu. It is also served as a nourishing snack for children and elders. The dish’s simplicity and reliance on local produce reflect Kerala’s agricultural traditions, making it a symbol of regional pride and comfort food.