How to prepare banana flower bhaji or Kelfulachi bhaji

Banana flower provides nutrients, promotes digestion, supports heart health, helps regulate blood sugar, and may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, among other potential benefits.

To make banana flower bhaji, also known as banana flower stir-fry, you'll need to prepare the banana flower by removing the outer layers and the stamen before cooking it. Here's a step-by-step recipe:

Ingredients:

1 banana flower

2 tablespoons oil

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 onion, finely chopped

1 tomato, finely chopped.,

2-3 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 cup of boiled peanuts

Salt to taste

1/2 teaspoon garam masala (optional)

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Remove the outer layers of the banana flower until you reach the tender, pale-colored inner layers. Each layer should be checked for any flowers or stamen. Remove and discard them. Chop the tender part of the banana flower finely and soak it in water with a little lemon juice or vinegar to prevent discoloration. Let it sit for about 2 hours, then drain the water.

Steam it in a pressure cooker without water.

Heat oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them crackle.

Add the chopped onions, tomatoes and green chilies to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.

Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.

Add the chopped and steamed banana flower to the pan. Mix well and sauté for about 5 minutes.

Add turmeric powder and salt. Mix everything together until well combined.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the banana flower is cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the banana flower is cooked, uncover the pan and add boiled peanuts, cook for another 2-3 minutes to evaporate any excess moisture.

If desired, sprinkle garam masala over the bhaji and mix well.

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Your banana flower bhaji is now ready to be served. It can be enjoyed as a side dish with rice or roti.