banana fritters, Pazham Pori, are the most popular items so-called Kerala God’s Own Country. The item is extremely popular in cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode.

In Kozhikode (Calicut), Pazham Pori is one of the mainstays in street food at tea stalls and small eateries, with some of the best versions available here. Kozhikode is perhaps one of the most famous cities for Pazham Pori, served hot, usually accompanied by chai or black tea.

You’ll see this lovely snack in every corner of the state if you ever visit Kerala.

History of Banana Fritters (Pazham Pori)

Pazham Pori, in Malayalam, is another term for banana fritters-a snack with its roots deeply in South Indian cuisine. Pazham Pori is from Kerala, where bananas are abundant. Nendran was a common banana variety that originated in this region and was traditionally used for the dish. This dish is very simple to make, has a sweet taste, and hence became popular as a snack both among laborers and families. It becomes a staple street food and has become a popular tea-time snack in Kerala houses, enjoyed over time for the delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Why Should you Try this ?

• Sweetly Delicious: Banana caramelized to perfection, tastes heavenly.
  The golden, crunchy batter is in perfect contrast to the soft banana inside.
• Quick & Easy Snack: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizes ripe bananas, reducing food waste.
• Perfect for Tea-Time: A lovely accompaniment to your coffee or tea.
• Kid’s Delight: Savored by kids for its sweetness and crunchiness.
• Add spices : like cinnamon or cardamom for that extra kick to the wonderful flavors.
• Versatile Snack: Serve as a dessert, breakfast side, or mid-day snack.
• Gluten-free option: It can be prepared using gluten-free flour.
• Comfort food: Warm and nostalgic, perfect for cuddling up.

How to Prepare Banana Fritters (Pazham Pori)

Ingredients:

• 2 large ripe Nendran bananas (or any firm, sweet variety)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/4 cup rice flour (for crispiness)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• A pinch of salt
• A pinch of turmeric powder (optional, for color)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional, for aroma)
• Water, as needed (for batter)
• Oil for deep frying

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Bananas:
   • Peel the bananas and cut them lengthwise into thin strips (about 2-3 slices per banana).
2. Make the Batter:
   • Mix the all-purpose flour, rice flour, sugar, salt, turmeric powder, and cardamom powder in a bowl.
   • Add water gradually and mix to get a smooth, lump-free batter, thicker than pancake batter.
3. Dip and Fry:
   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan over a medium flame
   • Dip one banana slice, coating it good
   • Drop, gently, from the batter, a slice into oil hot
   • Serve: Fry all sides golden yellow and crispy when browned slightly.
4. Drain and Serve :

Tips for Extra Tastiness:

• Use fully ripe bananas for the best sweetness.
• Adding a pinch of baking soda to the batter makes the fritters puffier.
• Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.

Conclusion

Pazham Pori is one simple irresistible treat encapsulating the Kerala way of culinary traditions. This crisp on the outside, soft on the inside sweet treat can be a great treat to the guests when gathered at tea time or just a comforter at the same time. They are good with cardamom flavoring too, which would bring a special zest in tasting ripe bananas.