How to Make Banana Bajji – A Crispy South Indian Street Snack

 

Banana Bajji, also known as Vazhakkai Bajji in Tamil or Aratikaya Bajji in Telugu, is a classic South Indian tea-time snack made with raw banana slices dipped in a spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried until golden and crisp. Served hot with coconut chutney or tomato sauce, these bajjis are crunchy on the outside and tender within – a perfect companion for a cup of masala chai, especially during monsoon or festive seasons.

In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to make banana bajji South Indian style, using simple ingredients and easy steps. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will become one of your favourites.

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📝 What Is Banana Bajji?

Banana bajji is a popular deep-fried savoury snack made from raw bananas (plantains). These are different from ripe bananas – they’re starchy, firm, and perfect for savoury dishes. The banana slices are dipped in a spiced besan (gram flour) batter, then deep-fried to a beautiful golden brown.

This street food favourite is widely sold by roadside vendors in South India and is a must-have during the rainy season, temple festivals, and even at weddings.

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🛒 Ingredients for Banana Bajji:

(Makes 10–12 bajjis)

For the Batter:

Besan (gram flour) – 1 cup

Rice flour – 2 tbsp (for crispiness)

Red chilli powder – ½ tsp

Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp

Asafoetida – a pinch

Carom seeds (ajwain) – ½ tsp (optional)

Baking soda – a pinch (optional)

Salt – to taste

Water – as needed

For the Bajji:

Raw bananas (plantains) – 2 (peeled and thinly sliced lengthwise)

Oil – for deep frying

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Banana Bajji – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Raw Bananas

1. Peel the raw bananas and slice them lengthwise into thin strips (about 3–4 inches long).

2. Keep the slices in water to prevent discolouration while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine besan, rice flour, red chilli powder, turmeric, asafoetida, carom seeds, baking soda, and salt.

2. Add water gradually to form a smooth, slightly thick batter – it should coat the banana slices evenly without dripping too much.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium flame.

To test the oil, drop a small bit of batter in – it should rise to the top immediately.

Step 4: Fry the Banana Bajjis

1. Drain the banana slices and pat them dry with a clean cloth or kitchen paper.

2. Dip each slice into the batter, coat well, and gently slide into the hot oil.

3. Fry a few at a time, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crisp.

4. Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on absorbent paper.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve banana bajji hot with coconut chutney, mint chutney, or tomato ketchup.

Enjoy with a cup of filter coffee or masala tea for a cosy evening snack.

Great addition to a South Indian tiffin platter alongside idli, vada, and dosa.

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💡 Tips for Perfect Banana Bajji

Use raw plantains: Ensure the bananas are firm and not ripe. Ripe bananas will not work for this recipe.

Add rice flour: It gives the bajji that irresistible crunch.

Don't overcrowd the pan: Fry a few pieces at a time to keep the oil temperature stable.

Serve immediately: Bajjis are best eaten hot and fresh for maximum crispiness.

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🍘 Variations of Banana Bajji

Stuffed banana bajji: Add a slit in each slice and fill with spiced chutney or a mix of crushed garlic and red chilli before dipping in batter.

Spicy batter: Add crushed ginger, garlic, or green chilli paste for an extra flavour kick.

Mixed veggie bajji: Use the same batter to fry slices of potato, aubergine, or even paneer.

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❓ FAQs – How to Make Banana Bajji

Q: Can I make banana bajji in an air fryer?

A: While traditional bajji is deep-fried, you can try air frying by spraying a little oil over the battered slices and cooking at 200°C until crisp. The texture may vary slightly.

Q: How do I keep bajjis crispy for longer?

A: Fry on medium heat and serve immediately. If storing briefly, place them on a wire rack instead of tissue paper to avoid sogginess.

Q: Can I make the batter in advance?

A: It’s best to make the batter fresh. However, you can mix the dry ingredients beforehand and add water when ready to fry.

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🧾 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving):

Calories: 210

Carbohydrates: 25g

Protein: 4g

Fat: 10g

Fibre: 2g

> Note: Actual values may vary based on size and oil absorption.

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📌 Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make banana bajji, there’s no need to wait for a street vendor to get your fix. This easy, crispy, and flavourful South Indian snack is perfect for monsoon evenings, festive celebrations, or just a quick indulgence at home. With minimal ingredients and big flavour, banana bajji is a timeless classic that everyone will love.

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Learn how to make banana bajji – a crispy South Indian snack made with raw bananas and gram flour. Easy recipe perfect for tea-time or festivals.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

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