Banana cutlets are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the sweetness of raw and ripe bananas with savory spices and a crispy exterior. This innovative snack has gained popularity in various parts of the world, particularly in India, where bananas are a staple fruit. Perfect for tea time, as an appetizer, or even as a healthy snack for kids, banana cutlets offer a unique way to enjoy this versatile fruit.
About the Recipe
Banana cutlets are simple to prepare and require minimal ingredients. The base of the recipe is made from raw bananas, which are grated and combined with a blend of spices, herbs, and sometimes vegetables. The mixture is then shaped into cutlets, coated in semolina, and shallow-fried until golden brown and crispy. The recipe can be easily customized to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by all.
Popularity
Though banana cutlets might not be as mainstream as other snacks, their popularity is steadily rising due to the growing interest in vegetarian and innovative culinary creations. Street vendors and home cooks alike are experimenting with this dish, making it a sought-after item in various cuisines. The combination of familiar ingredients and the ease of preparation have made banana cutlets a favorite among health-conscious individuals and busy families looking for quick snack options.
Health Benefits
Banana cutlets are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:
Rich in Nutrients: Bananas are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.
High in Fiber: The dietary fiber in bananas can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness, making banana cutlets a satisfying snack option.
Low in Calories: When prepared with minimal oil, banana cutlets can be a relatively low-calorie snack compared to many other fried options.
Natural Energy Boost: The natural sugars found in bananas provide a quick energy boost, making these cutlets ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up or pre-workout snack.
Ingredients :
Bananas: The star ingredient provides sweetness and moisture, serving as a natural binding agent for the cutlets.
Onions: These add a savory depth of flavor and enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.
Spices: Turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala contribute aromatic flavors and health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Coriander Leaves: Fresh herbs brighten the dish and provide a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
Banana cutlets can be served in various ways to suit different occasions:
Serve warm with mint chutney or tamarind sauce for dipping.
Place cutlets between slices of bread along with some fresh lettuce and tomatoes for a wholesome sandwich.
Pair the cutlets with a fresh garden salad to balance the flavors and add extra nutrition.
Enjoy them on their own for a quick and satisfying treat, perfect for tea time.
Variations:
While the classic banana cutlet recipe is a crowd-pleaser, you can explore several variations to keep things interesting:
Vegetable Banana Cutlets: Add grated carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheesy Banana Cutlets: Incorporate grated cheese into the mixture for a creamy and indulgent twist.
Spicy Banana Cutlets: Increase the heat by adding chopped green chilies or using spicy breadcrumbs.
Baked Banana Cutlets: For a healthier alternative, brush the cutlets with a little oil and bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown.
Conclusion
Banana cutlets are a delightful and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them a hit among both kids and adults alike. Easy to prepare and packed with health benefits, banana cutlets are a fantastic addition to any meal or snack time. So next time you find yourself with ripe bananas, consider whipping up a batch of these delicious cutlets. You might just discover a new favorite dish that keeps everyone coming back for more!
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Banana Cutlets
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 1x
Description
Banana cutlets, or tikkis, are savory patties made with a filling of gram flour, boiled white kidney beans, and spices. These cutlets are coated with semolina and typically shallow-fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The semolina coating adds an extra crunch, while the tender interior provides a comforting bite. The earthy taste of gram flour and the creamy texture of white kidney beans blend beautifully with the subtle sweetness of raw bananas. Perfect for an afternoon snack or appetizer, they are best enjoyed with a side of green chutney or tangy tamarind chutney. Let’s make them!
Ingredients
- 2 raw bananas or plantains, boiled and grated
- ½ cup lobia (black-eyed beans)
- 2 teaspoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1–2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala powder
- Salt to taste
- 3 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
- 2–3 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
- 2–3 tablespoons semolina (rava/suji)
- Additional salt as needed
- 2–3 tablespoons oil as needed for shallow frying
Instructions
- Boil the raw bananas or plantains in enough water for 7-10 minutes on medium flame until they are soft. Drain off the excess water. The cooked bananas should be firm.
- Allow them to cool, then remove the skin and grate them. Set aside.
- In a pan, heat 2 teaspoons of oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and finely chopped green chilies.
- As they begin to crackle, add finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the ginger garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt to taste. Mix well.
- Add gram flour and cook for 3-4 minutes on low flame until the mixture is well combined and slightly dry.
- Turn off the flame and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a bowl, add grated bananas, lobia, gram flour filling, and chopped coriander. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into patties/tikkis of equal size, about 1 cm thick.
- Roll each patty in semolina (rava/suji) to coat evenly.
- Meanwhile, heat a cast iron pan or heavy-bottomed tawa with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Place the cutlets in the pan and shallow fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Carefully flip them over and cook on the other side as well.
- Serve the hot raw banana cutlets with green chutney or tangy tamarind chutney.
Notes
- Ensure the raw bananas are boiled only until soft; over-boiling can make them too mushy, which will affect the texture of the cutlets.
- Make sure the black-eyed beans are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- Adjust the number of green chilies and the amount of red chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
- Roll the cutlets evenly in semolina to ensure a consistent, crispy texture.
- Consider adding finely chopped vegetables such as carrots or peas to the mixture for added texture and nutrition.
- Prepare the cutlet mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Shape and fry the cutlets just before serving for the best results.
- Serve the cutlets immediately after frying to enjoy the crispiest texture.
- In addition to shallow frying, you can also deep fry or bake the cutlets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Cuisine: Indian
