Unveiling the Art Of Traditional Crispy Kerala Banana Chips
Experience Kerala in a Bite of Authentic Raw Banana Chips
Kerala- Gods’s own country is well known for its green landscapes, beautiful backwaters, serene beaches, and vibrant cultural festivals. But more than this the rich culinary heritage of Kerala will enlighten the taste buds of everyone. Among the iconic cuisines, golden crispy Kerala banana chips are an all time favourite of locals as well as visitors. These raw banana chips locally known as ‘varuthakaya’ or ‘kayavaruthath’ hold a special place more than just a snack, but a piece of emotion for all Keralites. Over time Kerala chips have evolved from a household staple to a popular snack both in India and abroad.
But what makes these chips so crispy, delicious and more than addicted by so many? In this article we will dive into the art of making these crunchy chips, exploring their history, ingredients and unique techniques to recreate the traditional chips right in your own kitchen.
Roots Of Kerala Banana Chips
The tropical climate of Kerala is suited for cultivation of bananas. So Kerala is home to several varieties of banana, particularly varieties like the Nendran banana, which is the key ingredient in making authentic raw banana chips. Nendran bananas are a type of plantain, known for their starchy and firm texture, making them perfect for frying. Unlike the sweet, soft bananas that are eaten raw, Nendran bananas are mainly used in savoury dishes and are the main ingredient in many popular Kerala recipes, including chips.
The tradition of making banana chips can be traced back centuries in Kerala. The practice of frying raw bananas likely began as a method of preservation. The frying process helps to retain the essential nutrients of the bananas while creating a crunchy snack that can last for weeks. Over time, the technique evolved and became a staple snack that is enjoyed by both the locals and tourists who visit this coastal paradise.
Banana chips are often served during festivals, special occasions, and family gatherings. They are also frequently found in Kerala’s famed Sadya, a traditional feast that features a variety of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf. Enjoying these crunchy raw banana chips with tea in the evenings is a lovely childhood memory for all locals.
The Key Ingredients : Nendran Banana and Coconut Oil
The key to making traditional Kerala banana chips lies in selecting the right kind of bananas.While there are many varieties, the Nendran banana (also known as the plantain banana) is the most preferred choice for making chips. Known for its slightly thicker skin and lower sugar content, Nendran bananas hold their shape well during the frying process and yield a satisfyingly crisp texture.
Firm, green, unripe bananas without any spots or blemishes are selected to get the desired crunch and taste.
One of the most defining features of Kerala banana chips is the use of coconut oil in the frying process. Coconut oil, the treasure of Kerala, is an integral part of Kerala cuisine and offers a unique flavour and aroma to the chips. The use of coconut oil not only enhances the taste but also imparts health benefits, as it is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known for their positive effects on metabolism.
How Banana Chips Are Fried To Perfection
1. Preparing the banana:
Preparing begins by washing and peeling the Nendran bananas. Peeling is done with the help of a knife, as the peel of a Nendran banana can be quite thick. Once peeled, the bananas are sliced into thin rounds or slices using a slicer. The thickness of the slices is important for uniform frying.
2. Soaking:
Once sliced, the chips are immediately immersed in a mixture of water and turmeric powder. This helps to preserve the color of the bananas and imparts a subtle golden hue to the chips.Soaking is done for about 15 – 20 minutes.
3. Frying:
Traditionally, coconut oil is used to fry Kerala banana chips. Coconut oil adds a distinctive aroma and flavour and helps to achieve the crispy, light texture that’s characteristic of these chips.
In a heavy-bottomed pan or wok, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Once the oil is sufficiently hot, add sliced bananas ensuring they don’t clump together. Fry them in small batches for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chips will turn golden and crispy as the moisture in the banana slices evaporates and the starch turns into a crispy texture.
The key to making the perfect Kerala banana chips lies in frying them at the right temperature and for the right amount of time.
4. Draining and Seasoning:
Once fried, remove the chips using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While they are still hot, season them with salt and a pinch of turmeric powder.
5. Cooling and Storing:
After the chips are completely cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container. This helps to maintain their crispiness. Properly stored, banana chips can last for weeks, making them a perfect snack to have on hand.
The Secret to Ultimate Crispiness
The authenticity of Kerala banana chips lies in their texture – light, airy, and perfectly crispy. These tips help you prepare the perfect crispness.
* Fry in small batches: Ensures that each chip gets enough space to crisp up without overcrowding the pan.
* Use fresh oil: Reusing oil multiple times can affect the crispiness and flavor of the chips. Fresh, high-quality coconut oil yields the best results.
* Adequate temperature: Maintaining a medium heat is key.
* Don’t rush: Allow the chips to cool completely on paper towels to drain excess oil before storing them.
The Love for Kerala Banana Chips
There’s something that makes us addicted to the taste and texture of Kerala raw banana chips. The combination of the slightly savoury flavour of the Nendran banana, the aromatic coconut oil, and the crispy texture creates a snack that’s simple yet delightful. It’s no wonder that this traditional dish has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved snack in Kerala and beyond.
Whether enjoyed during a festival or as an everyday snack, Kerala banana chips will always have a place in the heart of those who enjoy the art of traditional cooking. So, the next time you find yourself craving something
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