Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 banana flower
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon rice flour
- Oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Large bowl
- Strainer
- Deep frying pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Remove the outer layers of the banana flower until you reach the tender, pale yellow leaves.
2. Cut off the top and bottom of the flower and discard.
3. Remove the stamen from each flower and discard.
4. Cut the remaining flower into thin slices and soak them in water mixed with turmeric powder and salt for 30 minutes.
5. Drain the water and rinse the slices thoroughly.
6. In a large bowl, mix the cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and rice flour.
7. Add the banana flower slices to the bowl and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
8. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
9. Once the oil is hot, add the coated banana flower slices to the pan in batches.
10. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
11. Remove the fried banana flower slices from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
12. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for frying
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Corn flour can be used instead of rice flour.
- Any neutral oil can be used for frying.
Variations:
- Add chopped onions and green chilies to the spice mixture for added flavor.
- Serve with a side of mint chutney or tamarind chutney.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline slicer to get thin, even slices of banana flower.
- Make sure to soak the banana flower slices in water mixed with turmeric powder and salt to remove any bitterness.
- Coat the banana flower slices evenly with the spice mixture to ensure even frying.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover fried banana flower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the fried banana flower in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the fried banana flower on a platter with a side of chutney and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh cilantro leaves
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of steamed rice and dal for a complete meal.
- Pair with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed rice
- Dal
- Mint chutney
- Tamarind chutney
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the banana flower slices are not crispy, increase the heat of the oil and fry for a longer time.
- If the banana flower slices are too thick, they may not cook evenly. Use a mandoline slicer to get thin, even slices.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to soak the banana flower slices in water mixed with turmeric powder and salt to remove any bitterness and to ensure they are clean.
- Use caution when frying with hot oil.
Food history:
Mochar Bhaja is a popular Bengali dish made with fried banana flower. It is a traditional dish that has been passed down through generations.
Flavor profiles:
Mochar Bhaja has a spicy and savory flavor with a crispy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve Mochar Bhaja as an appetizer or as a side dish with a main meal.
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Region: Indian