Vazhai Thandu Usli or Banana Stem dry Curry is a healthy vegan, GF dish made with Chopped Banana pith and lentils. Served as an accompaniment to Rasam or Sambhar.
Peel the plantain stem and chop into rings about 1/4 inch thick.
Remove the fibre between the rings with your fingers and reserve in a cup of buttermilk to prevent discolouration
Once all the discs (rings) are cut, finely chop the veggies. Use as much as required and store the remaining in ziploc as chopping this veggie is very labour intensive
Meanwhile soak the moong dal in warm water for about 10 mins.
Pressure cook the veggie and moong dal in separate containers with very little water & a pinch of turmeric for 2 – 3 whistles.
Cool and drain any water. If not using pressure cooker, boil till the dal turns slightly done but not mushy. Add a pinch of salt too.
In a pan, heat oil. Prepare the tempering. Add the above veggie-dal mixture, curry leaves, salt, grated coconut, coriander leaves and stir lightly.
Finish with Lemon juice.
Serve hot with Rasam /Sambhar / Kuzhambu with hot steamed rice. Goes well with chilled curd rice too!
Keyword Gluten Free, No Onion No garlic, Plant Based, Raw Banana, Side Dish, Vegan