Aratkaaya Masala Pulusu (Spiced Raw Banana Curry)

REQUIRED INGREDIENTS
3 tablespoons oil
1/4 teaspoon black mustard seeds
8 curry leaves
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
Salt, to taste

SET ONE
4 raw bananas (different than unripe bananas we eat)
1 1/2 tablespoons tamarind paste

SET TWO
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
4 whole cloves garlic
1 1/2-inch piece ginger
2 whole cloves
1 teaspoon uncooked rice
Servings: 4
1. Make Set 2 into a paste (adding a few drops of water) and keep aside.

2. Raw bananas should be cut into four pieces each. Remove the skin and keep aside.

3. In a deep skillet heat oil, add mustard seeds and when seeds start popping add curry leaves and the above paste (of Set 2). Fry on moderate heat for one minute. Add 1 1/2 cups water, tamarind paste, and the banana pieces. Also add red chili powder, turmeric and salt. Let cook on low heat for 15 minutes or until the gravy thickens.


Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Notes: Some tamarind paste can be very sour, so you may need to adjust according to your taste. You can add a spoon of sugar just before removing from heat.

Cuisine: Indian