Kaya Tholi Thoran is a special and healthy dish made from raw banana peels. It shows how Kerala uses everything to reduce waste and boost flavor. This simple stir-fry turns banana peels, which are usually thrown away, into a tasty and nutritious side dish. Growing up, we had many vegetables and plantains at home. We used the plantain flower, stem, raw banana, peel, and the delicious fruit itself. In this blog, I’ll show you how to make a delicious and healthy banana peel recipe.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Banana plantain
2. Ingredients
3. Recipe with pictures
4. Watch recipe video
5. Storage
6. Frequently asked questions
7. Tips for preparation

Banana Plantain

A banana plantain is a starchy, less sweet variety of banana commonly used in cooking, especially in tropical regions. Unlike regular bananas, plantains are typically cooked before eating. They are rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. These nutrients contribute to better digestion, improved heart health, and boosted immunity. Plantains are versatile and can be boiled, fried, or baked, making them a nutritious addition to various dishes. Once ripe, they become tasty and delicious, adding natural sweetness to meals.

Ingredients

• 1 cup soaked red cowpeas(Vanpayar)
• Peels from 4-5 raw bananas
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 2-3 cloves of garlic
• 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoon coconut oil/ oil of your choice
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• Salt to taste
• Curry leaves(Optional)

Recipe with pictures

1. Prepare the Banana Peels: Wash the raw banana peels thoroughly and remove any fibrous parts. Cut them into small pieces and keep aside.

2.Cook the Red Cowpeas: In a cooker add 1 cup of soaked red cowpeas along with 2cup of water,1/2 tsp turmeric powder,1/2 tsp salt. Pressure cook until 4-5 whistles or until its soft. Drain and set aside.

3.Grind the Coconut Mixture: In a blender, combine the grated coconut, garlic, and cumin seeds. Grind into a coarse mixture.

4.Stir-fry the Ingredients: Heat the coconut oil/ any oil of your choice in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped and washed banana peels, add 2-3 tablespoon of water, and sauté for a few minutes. Add the turmeric powder and salt. Mix well. Cover and cook until its soft. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

5.Combine and Cook: Once the banana peels are cooked add the cooked red cowpeas, ground coconut mixture and mix until well combined. Add curry leaves and cover and cook for another 10 minutes in low flame.

6.Garnish and Serve: If using, add curry leaves for extra flavor. Once done, remove from heat and serve hot as a delicious and nutritious side dish.

Enjoy your Kaya Tholi Thoran!

For more details and visuals, you can watch the recipe video below.

Watch recipe video

Storage

Once prepared, Kaya Tholi Thoran can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to store it for a longer duration, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When ready to consume, make sure to thaw the frozen dish in the refrigerator before reheating for the best taste and texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use ripe banana peels for this recipe?
   

   No, it’s best to use raw banana peels for this recipe as the texture and taste of ripe peels differ, and they may not cook well in the dish.

2. Can I skip the red cowpeas in this recipe?
   

   Yes, you can omit the red cowpeas if you prefer or replace them with another type of legume or vegetable of your choice.

3. What can I serve this banana peel stir-fry with?
   

   This dish pairs well with steamed rice.

4. Can I add chilli in this recipe?
   

   Absolutely, feel free to add according to your preference by adding more or less red/green chilies or pepper.

Tips for preparation

• Choose the Right Bananas: Use ripe but firm bananas to ensure the peels are tender and not too tough.
• Clean Thoroughly: Wash the banana peels thoroughly to remove any dirt, pesticides, or contaminants.
• Soak the Peels: After chopping, soak the banana peels in water for about 10-15 minutes to soften them and reduce bitterness.
• Add Oil to Hands: Rub a little oil on your hands before chopping to prevent the peels from staining your skin.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated coconut, curry leaves, and spices will enhance the flavor of the thoran.
• Cook Evenly: Ensure the banana peels are chopped finely and cooked evenly for a consistent texture..
• Soak cowpeas overnight to help them cook faster.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kaya Tholi Thoran highlights the creativity of Kerala cuisine by transforming banana peels into a tasty and nutritious dish. This recipe uses ingredients that are often thrown away and turns them into a savory, healthy meal option. By following these easy steps and tips, you can make this delicious banana peel stir-fry to enjoy with steamed rice. Embrace the tradition of reducing waste while enhancing flavor with this Kaya Tholi Thoran recipe.

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