Kela Methi Na Bhajiya, or Banana Fenugreek Fritters, is a popular snack from Gujarat, India. This delicious dish combines ripe bananas with fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), creating a unique blend of flavors. The warm, crispy fritters are especially loved during the rainy monsoon season when they are often enjoyed with a cup of chai. The comforting aroma of these fritters frying in oil brings back fond memories of childhood for many.
These fritters are commonly made during festive occasions like festival and family gatherings. They are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with friends and family. The crispy outside and soft inside make Kela Methi Na Bhajiya a delightful treat that everyone loves. Whether served as a snack or as part of a larger meal, these fritters add joy to any celebration.
One of the most interesting things about Kela Methi Na Bhajiya is how it combines sweet bananas with the slightly bitter taste of fenugreek leaves. This contrast creates a flavorful experience that surprises many who try it. The sweetness from overripe bananas balances the bitterness of methi, making each bite enjoyable. Spices like cumin and coriander add even more depth to the flavor.
Using overripe bananas is key to this recipe. They add natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring that the fritters are fluffy on the inside while crispy on the outside. Fresh fenugreek leaves not only enhance the taste but also provide health benefits, such as improved digestion.
In summary, Kela Methi Na Bhajiya is more than just a snack; it is a celebration of flavors from Gujarati cuisine. Its unique combination of sweet and bitter makes it a favorite for many, especially during special occasions. Whether you enjoy them on rainy days or at festive gatherings, these tasty fritters are sure to bring happiness to your table.
Kela Methi Na Bhajiya: The Perfect Fritter for Chai Lovers on Rainy Days
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 cups chopped methi leaves fenugreek
- 2 ½ cups besan gram flour
- oil for frying
- 1 tbsp yellow raisins
- 1 tbsp sugar optional
- 1 tsp green chili paste
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ inch ginger grated
- ½ tsp hing asafoetida
- ½ tsp black pepper crushed
- ½ tsp baking soda
- salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Banana Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mash the 3 ripe bananas until smooth.
- To the mashed bananas, add 1 tsp green chili paste, ½ tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder, ½ inch ginger (grated), 11 tbsp sugar (if using), ½ tsp hing, salt to taste, 1 tbsp yellow raisins, ½ tsp black pepper (crushed), 1 tsp coriander seeds.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
- Gently fold in the 2 cups chopped methi leaves into the banana mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add in the 2 ½ cups besan, mixing until you achieve a semi-soft batter consistency. Adjust the amount of besan as needed to reach the right texture.
Frying
- In a pan, heat oil over medium flame. While the oil is heating, add ½ tsp baking soda to the batter. For extra crispiness, add 1 tbsp of hot oil from the pan into the batter and mix well.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter (about 5-6 dollops at a time) into the oil. Fry until golden brown, flipping them as needed for even cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the fritters onto a plate or basket lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your delicious Kela Methi Na Bhajiya hot with ketchup or green mint-coriander chutney for dipping.
Video
Notes
Calorie Estimates:
Please note that the calorie counts are estimates and may vary based on cooking methods, portion sizes, and specific ingredient brands. For the most accurate nutritional information, consider calculating based on your own measurements.Have You Tried Kela Methi Na Bhajiya?
We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried making Kela Methi Na Bhajiya at home? What did you think of this delightful combination of sweet bananas and fenugreek? If you have any tips, variations, or experiences to share, please leave a comment below. Your feedback not only helps us improve but also inspires fellow readers to explore this delicious recipe. Happy cooking!