Kancha Kadali Bhaja
Crispy, golden pan-fried raw banana slices coated in a light, spiced rice flour batter. A classic Odia side dish with a delicate crunch on the outside and a tender, mildly sweet interior that pairs beautifully with dal and rice.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prepare the raw bananas.
1.Peel the raw bananas.2.Cut each banana into thin round slices, about half a centimeter thick.3.Place slices immediately in a bowl of water to prevent discoloration.TIPApply a little oil on your hands or use gloves while peeling to avoid the sticky sap. - mix · ~2 min
Make the spiced rice flour batter.
1.In a mixing bowl, add rice flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, and salt.2.Gradually add water and whisk into a smooth, lump-free batter.3.The batter should be thin enough to coat the banana slices lightly. - prep · ~3 min
Coat the banana slices with batter.
1.Drain the banana slices well.2.Dip each slice into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.3.Set coated slices aside on a plate. - temper · ~3 min
Temper the panch phoron.
1.Heat mustard oil in a frying pan over medium heat until it reaches its smoking point.2.Reduce heat and let the oil cool slightly.3.Add panch phoron and let it crackle and splutter for 15 seconds.4.Add the slit green chilies and sauté for another 15 seconds.TIPLetting mustard oil smoke eliminates its raw pungency and makes it safe for consumption. - fry · ~8 min
Shallow fry the banana slices.
1.Place the batter-coated banana slices in a single layer in the pan.2.Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on medium-low heat until the underside turns golden and crisp.3.Flip the slices gently and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes.4.Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.TIPDo not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even crispness. - serve
Serve hot.
Transfer to a serving plate. Serve immediately as a side dish with steamed rice and dal.
TIPKancha kadali bhaja is best enjoyed fresh off the pan when the coating is at its crispiest.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soak the peeled banana slices in water immediately to prevent oxidation and keep them pale.
- 2Rub a little oil on your hands before peeling raw bananas to avoid the sticky sap.
- 3Make sure the mustard oil reaches its smoking point to mellow its pungent flavor.
- 4The batter should be thin and runny; a thick batter will make the slices soggy.
- 5Fry in batches over medium-low heat to ensure even cooking and maximum crunch.
- 6Serve immediately after frying — the coating loses its crispiness as it cools.
Adapt it for your goals.
Air-fryer
Brush the coated slices lightly with oil and air-fry at 180°C for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. This version uses far less oil while retaining a crunchy texture.
bakedBaked
Arrange the battered slices on a greased baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 200°C for 20 minutes, flipping once. Ideal for a hands-off, lower-fat preparation.
no onion no garlic (jain style)No-onion-no-garlic (jain-style)
This recipe is already naturally free of onion and garlic, making it suitable for Jain diets. Ensure the oil is fresh and the panch phoron contains no onion seeds if needed.
spicierSpicier
Double the red chili powder or add a pinch of finely chopped fresh green chilies into the batter for those who want an extra fiery kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Resistant Starch
Green raw bananas are packed with resistant starch, which acts like soluble fiber, supports gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Naturally Gluten-Free
The batter uses only rice flour, making this dish completely gluten-free and safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Good Source of Potassium
Raw bananas are rich in potassium, an essential mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure and muscle function.
Low in Sugar
Unlike ripe bananas, raw bananas have very little natural sugar, making this crispy snack a diabetic-friendly choice when fried in minimal oil.
Frequently asked questions
No — ripe bananas are too soft and sweet; they will fall apart in the pan and turn mushy instead of crisp. Always use firm, green raw bananas.



