Banana Blossom Stir-Fry (Vazhaipoo Poriyal)

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Banana Blossom Stir-Fry (Vazhaipoo Poriyal)

Also known as Banana Flower Stir Fry, this traditional South Indian dish uses the edible flower of the banana plant. In Tamil it’s called Vazhaipoo Poriyal, and in Kerala style it’s similar to Banana Flower Thoran.

It’s mildly spiced, lightly sautéed with coconut, and known for being gut-friendly and highly nutritious.

Description

Banana blossom has a slightly bitter, earthy taste and a meaty texture. When cleaned and cooked properly, it becomes tender and absorbs flavors beautifully. This dish is:

  • High in fiber

  • Light on the stomach

  • Traditionally believed to support digestion and reduce acidity

 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For Cleaning:

  • 1 large banana blossom

  • 2 cups buttermilk (or water + 2 tbsp yogurt)

  • ½ tsp turmeric

For Cooking:

  • 2 tbsp oil (preferably coconut oil)

  • 1 tsp mustard seeds

  • 1 tsp urad dal

  • 1 sprig curry leaves

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 green chilies, chopped

  • ¼ tsp turmeric powder

  • ½ tsp red chili powder (optional)

  • Salt to taste

  • ½ cup freshly grated coconut

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

 Preparation (Very Important Step)

  1. Remove outer purple layers of the blossom.

  2. Take the small florets inside.

  3. Remove:

    • The hard stick-like stamen

    • The transparent outer petal

  4. Finely chop cleaned florets.

  5. Immediately soak in buttermilk + turmeric for 15–20 minutes to prevent darkening.

  6. Drain before cooking.

 Cooking Method

  1. Heat oil in a pan.

  2. Add mustard seeds; let them splutter.

  3. Add urad dal and sauté until golden.

  4. Add curry leaves, onions, and green chilies. Sauté until soft.

  5. Add chopped banana blossom.

  6. Add turmeric, salt, and ¼ cup water.

  7. Cover and cook on low for 10–12 minutes.

  8. Stir occasionally until soft.

  9. Add grated coconut and mix well.

  10. Finish with lemon juice.

Serve warm with rice and sambar or as a side dish.

 Tips for Best Results

✔ Always soak chopped blossom immediately to avoid bitterness.
✔ Cook covered on low heat for softness.
✔ Add a little moong dal (soaked) for extra protein.
✔ Do not overcook — it becomes mushy.
✔ Use fresh blossom for best taste.

Servings

  • Serves: 4 people

  • Serving Size: ~1 cup

  • Preparation Time: 25 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 40 minutes

 Nutritional Information (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: 120–150 kcal

  • Fiber: 5–7 g

  • Protein: 3–4 g

  • Fat: 7 g

  • Iron: Moderate amount

  • Potassium: Good source

  • Rich in antioxidants

 Health Benefits

  1. Supports Digestion – High fiber improves bowel movement.

  2. May Help with Gastritis – Traditionally used to soothe stomach lining.

  3. Supports Women’s Health – Often consumed to help regulate menstrual cycles (traditional belief).

  4. Good for Diabetes – Low glycemic load.

  5. Heart-Friendly – Contains potassium and antioxidants.

  6. Weight Management – High fiber keeps you full longer.

 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does banana blossom taste bitter?

Slightly, but soaking and proper cooking removes most bitterness.

2. Can I boil it before stir-frying?

Yes. You can pressure cook for 1 whistle to save time.

3. Can I store leftovers?

Yes. Refrigerate for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

4. Can I freeze banana blossom?

Raw cleaned blossom can be frozen after blanching.

5. Is it good for acidity?

Traditionally believed to soothe gastritis and reduce acidity.

6. Can pregnant women eat this?

Yes, in moderate amounts, but consult a doctor if unsure.

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