Pazham Pori – Kerala Banana Fritters

 Pazham Pori – Kerala Banana Fritters

Pazham Pori is a popular Kerala snack made by dipping ripe bananas in a lightly sweetened flour batter and deep-frying them until golden and crisp.

These banana fritters are especially delicious when served hot with a cup of Kerala-style tea or coffee.

Ingredients

- 3 ripe Nendran bananas

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 2 tablespoons rice flour

- 2 tablespoons sugar

- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder

- A pinch of salt

- ½ teaspoon cardamom powder

- Water, as needed

- Oil, for deep frying

Method

1. Prepare the Bananas

Peel the ripe bananas and cut each banana lengthwise into 2 or 3 pieces.

Keep them aside.

2. Prepare the Batter

In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rice flour, sugar, turmeric powder, cardamom powder and salt.

Gradually add water and whisk until you get a smooth, thick batter.

The batter should coat the banana pieces without running off too quickly.

3. Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.

To check the temperature, drop a little batter into the oil. It should rise slowly and start bubbling.

4. Coat the Bananas

Dip each banana piece into the batter and coat it evenly.

Carefully place the coated banana into the hot oil.

5. Fry Until Golden

Deep-fry the banana pieces until they become golden brown and crisp on the outside.

Turn them occasionally for even cooking.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

6. Serve

Serve the Pazham Pori hot with tea or coffee.

Serving Suggestions

Pazham Pori tastes delicious with:

- Kerala-style black tea

- Filter coffee

- Coconut chutney

- Lightly sweetened tea

- As an evening snack

Tips

- Use ripe but firm Nendran bananas.

- Keep the batter slightly thick so it coats the bananas properly.

- Fry over medium heat to prevent the outside from browning too quickly.

- Rice flour helps give the fritters a slightly crisp exterior.

- Serve fresh and hot for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Pazham Pori is one of Kerala's beloved tea-time snacks. The combination of soft, naturally sweet banana and a crisp golden coating makes it simple, comforting and delicious.

Enjoy these warm banana fritters with a hot cup of tea for a classic Kerala-style snack.