vazhakkai
Also known as:
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Also known as:
Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central
Crispy, savory, and incredibly addictive, these South Indian raw banana chips are a classic snack. Thinly sliced plantains are fried to golden perfection and seasoned simply with salt and chili powder.
A classic Chettinad delicacy, these vegetarian 'meatballs' are made from raw plantain, coconut, and a fragrant blend of freshly ground spices. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make for an unforgettable appetizer or side dish.
Crispy, golden fritters made from raw plantain slices dipped in a spiced chickpea flour batter. This classic South Indian tea-time snack is incredibly addictive and perfect for a rainy day.
Crispy, spiced slices of raw banana shallow-fried to perfection. This simple South Indian side dish, often called Vazhakkai Fry, is the perfect accompaniment to rice and sambar, ready in under 30 minutes.
Yes, vazhakkai is very healthy as it is a rich source of resistant starch and dietary fiber, which promote gut health and digestion. It also provides essential nutrients like potassium for heart health and Vitamin B6 for brain function.
A 100g serving of vazhakkai contains approximately 122 calories and 31.89g of carbohydrates. While it is starch-heavy, it is very low in fat (0.37g) and provides a steady source of energy.
Vazhakkai can be beneficial for weight loss because its high fiber and resistant starch content increase satiety, helping you feel full for longer. To maximize benefits, it should be steamed or sautéed rather than deep-fried.
Yes, vazhakkai is often recommended for diabetics because its resistant starch has a lower glycemic index than ripe bananas. This helps in managing blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose.
No, vazhakkai is not keto-friendly. With nearly 32g of carbohydrates per 100g, it is too high in starch to fit within the strict daily carb limits of a ketogenic diet.
No, vazhakkai should not be eaten raw. It has a very high starch content and a bitter taste that makes it difficult to digest; it must be boiled, steamed, or fried to become palatable and digestible.
Vazhakkai is commonly prepared by peeling the skin and then boiling, steaming, or stir-frying the flesh with spices. It is a popular ingredient for making chips, poriyal (stir-fry), and bajji (fritters).
vazhakkai is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 122 calories per 100g and 1.3 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
Explore more ingredients in the vegetable category with complete nutrition information.
View all vegetable →Vazhakkai has a neutral, starchy flavor and a firm texture, very similar to a potato. Because it is not sweet like a ripe banana, it acts as an excellent base for savory spices and sauces.
To keep vazhakkai from ripening, store it in a cool, dry place away from other ripening fruits. If you need to keep it longer, you can store it in the refrigerator, though the skin may darken, the inside will remain firm and starchy.
Generally, the thick green peel is removed before cooking the inner flesh. However, the peel itself is edible and highly nutritious; in some cuisines, it is finely chopped and sautéed into a separate dish.
