Pazham Pori Recipe: Pazham Pori, also called Ethakka Appam, is a popular snack from Kerala that’s loved for its crispy exterior and sweet, tender banana filling. Made with ripe bananas dipped in a simple flour batter and then fried, this easy recipe is the ultimate treat to enjoy with a hot cup of chai or coffee. Here’s a guide on how to make these delicious fritters at home!
About Pazham Pori
Pazham Pori is traditionally made with Nendram Pazham—a variety of banana native to Kerala. These large, firm bananas are known for their mildly sweet flavor and firm texture, making them perfect for frying. If Nendram Pazham isn’t available, you can still make delicious pazham pori using regular bananas, as long as they’re firm and not overly ripe. Pazham Pori Recipe
These banana fritters have a golden, crispy coating with a soft, slightly sweet banana center. They’re a nostalgic treat for many and are frequently enjoyed as an evening snack, especially during monsoon season. You can even spice up the batter with a hint of turmeric for color and a touch of rice flour for extra crispiness!
Ingredients: Pazham Pori Recipe
- 300 grams ripe bananas (2-3 medium to large bananas or nendram pazham)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon rice flour (optional, for crispiness)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 pinch turmeric powder
- 1 pinch baking soda
- ⅓ cup water (adjust as needed)
- Oil for deep frying
Pazham Pori Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, add ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon rice flour (optional), 1 tablespoon sugar (optional), a pinch of turmeric powder, and a pinch of baking soda.
- Mix well with a whisk or spoon.
- Add ⅓ cup water gradually and whisk until you get a smooth, thick batter without lumps. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the banana slices evenly.
2. Prepare the Bananas
- Peel the bananas. Slice each one horizontally into halves or quarters, depending on its size.
- Then, slice each piece vertically to get thin, even pieces that are easy to coat and fry.
3. Heat the Oil
- Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat. The oil is ready when a small drop of batter sizzles upon contact. Pazham Pori Recipe
4. Fry the Banana Fritters
- Dip each banana slice in the batter, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Carefully place the batter-coated banana slices in the hot oil. Fry a few at a time, but don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Fry until both sides are lightly golden. Avoid over-frying, as this can make the bananas overly soft inside.
- Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve
- Enjoy these warm banana fritters as a delightful snack with chai or coffee!
Expert Tips for Perfect Pazham Pori Recipe
- Choose the Right Bananas: Use firm, ripe bananas for the best texture. Nendram Pazham is ideal if available.
- Rice Flour for Crispiness: Adding rice flour to the batter gives the fritters a crispier texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry a few fritters at a time to avoid reducing the oil temperature, which can make the fritters greasy.
- Avoid Over-Frying: Fry until just golden to maintain a balance between the crispy batter and the soft banana filling.
FAQs about Pazham Pori Recipe
Can I use other types of bananas for Pazham Pori?
Yes, you can use any firm, ripe bananas if Nendram Pazham is not available. Just avoid overly ripe or soft bananas as they may turn mushy while frying.
What is the purpose of rice flour in the batter?
Rice flour helps make the batter extra crispy. If you prefer a softer texture, you can omit it.
Is sugar necessary in the batter?
Adding sugar is optional. It adds a mild sweetness to the batter, but the natural sweetness of the bananas may be enough for some.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix, though the texture may vary slightly.
How do I keep the fritters crispy for longer?
For the crispiest results, serve the fritters immediately. You can also keep them in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy the taste of Kerala with this delicious Pazham Pori recipe!