VAZHACHUNDU THORAN

Vazzhaippoo, vazhakkoombu, vazhachundu, kudappan all refer to banana flower which is used to make thoran, vada, koottu etc.Eventhough all types of banana flowers are used to make thoran, Palayamkodan vazhachundu is the tastiest.

INGREDIENTS

1. Vaazhachundu - 1
2. shallots (small onion) - 5-6 (optional)
3. Green chilly - 2
4. curry leaves - 2 sprigs
5. Coconut scraped - 1/2 cup
6. Turmeric powder - 1/2 tea spoon
7. Salt
8. Coconut oil - 1 1/2 table spoon
9. Mustard seeds - 1/2 tea spoon
10. Uzhunu parippu (urad daal) or par boiled rice - 1 table spoon

PREPARATION

Discard 3-4 outer petals of the banana flower. Cut the flower into very small pieces directly into a bowl of water. Wash it 3-4 times and add 1 tea spoon of oil. Stir with your index finger in one direction for 15- 20 seconds The black threads along with some pieces will stick to the finger. Discard that. Repeat 3-4 times

Cut the shallots and green chillies

In a pan heat oil. Splutter the mustard seeda and add urad daal/ rice When it turns light brown add the shallots, chilly and curry leaves Saute for 1 minute. Add turmeric powder and salt, srir and add the cut banana flower. Stir well, close and allow to cook on a low flame ( add a little water if needed) When it is almost cooked  add the coconut and cover with the flower pieces. Close with a lid and allow to cook for 2-3 minutes.  remove the lid, stir well and keep on very low flame for some more time.