Raw Banana Poriyal (Raw Banana Stir Fry with Coconut - Tamilian Cuisine)

          This is a very popular side dish from the State of Tamil Nadu and is included in the menu platter / meal in any South Indian restaurant. It is a simple preparation with lots of fresh grated coconut added to the end product. 

         This simple delicacy is traditionally relished as a side dish with curd-rice, sambar-rice or rasam-rice. It can also be served with any kind of Indian bread. It is a quick recipe, both healthy and nutritious with minimum of oil and spices. 

• 2-3 raw banana, peeled & chopped
• 2 tbsp. oil
• 1-2 dry red chilies, broken
• 1 tsp. mustard seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1-2 green chilies, slit (opt)
• 1 tsp. urad dal (split black gram)
• salt to taste
• 2-3 tbsp. fresh grated coconut
• 1 tbsp. coriander leaves, chopped

          Heat oil in a pan and temper with mustard seeds and dry red chilies. After it stops spluttering, add the urad dal, curry leaves and green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds.

          Add the chopped banana and salt. Give it a stir and cook, covered on a low flame. Sprinkle some water at intervals. 

           When done, switch off the flame and add the coconut. Give it a toss and garnish with coriander leaves. Serve as a side dish with rice or chapattis.