Raw Banana Peanut Kootu is a delightful South Indian side dish, a harmonious blend of earthy peanuts and subtly sweet raw banana. This flavorful kootu, typically served alongside rice and sambar, offers a unique textural contrast – the soft, cooked banana against the crunchy peanuts. Its creamy texture and rich aroma are captivating, making it a perfect accompaniment to any South Indian meal, or even a satisfying vegetarian meal on its own. The subtly spiced sauce complements the banana beautifully, creating a balanced and satisfying taste experience.
This recipe provides a simple yet authentic approach to preparing this beloved dish. We will guide you through each step, ensuring you create a delicious Raw Banana Peanut Kootu that will impress your family and friends. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Heavy-bottomed vessel
- Small saucepan
- Pan
Ingredients
- Peanuts: 50 grams
- Tomato: 1 medium
- Onion: 1 medium
- Ginger: small piece, grated
- Raw Banana: 1
- Green chilies
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 - 3/4 teaspoon
- Mustard seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: a pinch
- Coriander powder: a pinch
- Coconut oil: 1 tablespoon
- Peppercorns
- Cumin seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Partially Cook Peanuts
- Finely chop one medium-sized tomato and one medium-sized onion. Grate a small piece of ginger. Lightly scrape off the outer skin of a banana, cut it into small cubes, and put it in water to prevent sogginess.
- Pour water into a heavy-bottomed vessel and cook the peanuts at 50% speed until half-cooked.
Step 2. Sauté Vegetables and Spices
- Add the chopped tomatoes and onions to the half-cooked peanuts, along with half a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Cook well.
- Add chopped green chilies.
- Add salt to taste, add a little water, cover and cook well. Let it cool.
- In a small saucepan, lightly fry peppercorns and cumin seeds until fragrant.
- After cooling, add a pinch of turmeric powder to the peppercorn-cumin mixture and mix well.
Step 3. Temper and Combine
- Heat a tablespoon of coconut oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and fry until they splutter. Then add red chili powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder and fry briefly.
- Add the fried spice mixture to the cooked peanut and banana mixture. Mix well and let it sit for five minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Easy Beef Stew Recipe: Delicious & Simple Indian-Spiced Stew
Tips
- Soaking the chopped banana in water prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Lightly frying the peppercorns and cumin seeds enhances their aroma.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use ripe bananas instead of raw bananas?
No, ripe bananas will make the kootu too sweet and mushy. Raw bananas hold their shape better and provide the right texture.
2. What type of peanuts should I use?
Use roasted peanuts, either salted or unsalted. Salted peanuts will add extra flavor, but adjust seasoning accordingly.
3. Can I make this kootu ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your homemade Raw Banana Peanut Kootu! This versatile side dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. We hope you savor every creamy, flavorful bite!