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Authentic Banana Leaf Rice
Indulge in a culinary journey to South India with this traditional Banana Leaf Rice dish. Each bite of the fragrant Basmati rice, infused with a medley of aromatic spices, transports you to the bustling streets of South India. Served on a banana leaf, this dish is not just a meal, but a feast for the senses. The accompaniments of crisp papadums, fresh cucumber, and juicy tomato slices add a delightful crunch that complements the soft, flavorful rice.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Papadums
- 4
- Tomato
- 1, sliced
- Cucumber
- 1, sliced
- Lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon
- Salt
- 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon
- Fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon, grated
- Garlic
- 2 cloves, minced
- Onion
- 1, chopped
- Curry leaves
- 10-12
- Cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon
- Mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon
- Coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons
- Banana leaves
- 4, large
- Basmati rice
- 2 cups, cooked
Instructions
- Cook the basmati rice as per the package instructions and set aside.
- Clean the banana leaves with a damp cloth and gently pat dry.
- In a large pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
- Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Wait for them to splutter.
- Next, add the curry leaves, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until the onions become translucent and golden brown.
- Stir in the turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Introduce the cooked rice to the pan and stir until it is well combined with the spices. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Drizzle the lemon juice over the rice and mix well. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the banana leaves by quickly passing them over an open flame. This makes them more pliable and enhances their aroma.
- Place a portion of the spiced rice in the center of each banana leaf and spread it out.
- Serve the banana leaf rice with freshly sliced cucumber, tomato, and crisp papadums on the side.
- Enjoy this traditional, flavorful, and aromatic South Indian meal.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 30 minutes • Calories: 400 • Fat: 10g • Carbs: 68g • Protein: 8g • Sodium: 600mg • Sugar: 3g